28704, Arden, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28704, Arden, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28704

This review assesses the healthcare landscape surrounding ZIP code 28704, a region encompassing Asheville, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas. The analysis focuses on hospital quality, accessibility, and the availability of specialized services, aiming to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for residents seeking medical care. Key factors considered include Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings, emergency room wait times, the presence of specialized centers, and the availability of telehealth services.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

Mission Hospital, the largest hospital in Asheville, is a primary focus of this review. Mission Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare, is a large, regional referral center offering a wide range of services. CMS ratings are a crucial indicator of hospital quality. As of late 2023, Mission Hospital's CMS star rating is a three-star rating. This rating reflects performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. It is important to understand that CMS ratings are just one measure of hospital quality, and a three-star rating does not necessarily indicate poor care, but it does suggest areas where the hospital could improve.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a critical concern for patients seeking immediate care. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, data from resources like the Healthgrades website provide insights. Generally, ER wait times at Mission Hospital can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients. It's advisable for patients to check current wait times online or by phone before heading to the ER. Shorter wait times often indicate better efficiency and patient flow within the emergency department.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

The availability of specialized medical centers is a significant advantage for residents. Mission Hospital boasts several specialized centers, including a comprehensive cancer center, a heart and vascular institute, and a neuroscience center. These centers provide advanced care for complex medical conditions. The cancer center offers a range of treatment options, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology. The heart and vascular institute provides services for cardiovascular disease, including cardiac catheterization, angioplasty, and open-heart surgery. The neuroscience center offers care for neurological conditions, such as stroke, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.

**Telehealth Availability:**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Mission Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. Telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. The availability of telehealth services is a positive factor in the overall health score, as it increases access to care and convenience for patients.

**Other Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities:**

While Mission Hospital is the dominant healthcare provider in the area, other facilities also contribute to the overall health landscape. Several smaller hospitals and urgent care centers are located within a reasonable driving distance of ZIP code 28704. These facilities provide alternative options for patients seeking care for less serious conditions. These facilities can help alleviate pressure on the ER at Mission Hospital.

**Access to Primary Care Physicians:**

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial aspect of healthcare access. The area surrounding ZIP code 28704 has a mix of primary care practices, including those affiliated with Mission Hospital and independent practices. Access to a PCP is essential for preventive care, chronic disease management, and referrals to specialists. The ability to quickly obtain an appointment with a PCP is a key factor in the overall health score.

**Hospital Quality Metrics Beyond CMS Ratings:**

Beyond CMS star ratings, other metrics are used to assess hospital quality. These include patient satisfaction scores, infection rates, and surgical outcomes. Patient satisfaction scores, often measured through surveys like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS), provide insights into the patient experience. Low infection rates and positive surgical outcomes are critical indicators of quality and patient safety.

**Community Health and Wellness Programs:**

The overall health score also considers the presence of community health and wellness programs. Mission Hospital and other healthcare providers often offer health education classes, support groups, and wellness initiatives. These programs can help residents improve their health and prevent chronic diseases. Community involvement is a positive aspect of the overall health score.

**Considerations for Specific Patient Needs:**

Patients with specific medical needs should carefully consider their options. For example, pregnant women may want to research the obstetric services offered by local hospitals. Patients with heart conditions should assess the capabilities of the heart and vascular institutes. Patients with cancer should research the cancer centers and treatment options available.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP code 28704 is a mixed bag. Mission Hospital, the primary provider, offers a wide range of services and specialized centers, but its CMS star rating indicates room for improvement. ER wait times can vary, and telehealth services are available. The presence of other hospitals and urgent care centers provides additional options. Access to primary care physicians appears to be reasonable. Community health programs are available.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score, Mission Hospital could focus on improving its CMS star rating by addressing areas such as patient safety and readmission rates. The hospital could also work to reduce ER wait times and expand its telehealth offerings. Increased access to primary care physicians and more robust community health programs would also contribute to a higher overall health score. Residents should actively research the healthcare providers in their area and make informed decisions based on their individual needs and preferences.