28717, Cashiers, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28717, Cashiers, North Carolina is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28717 (Brevard, NC)

Navigating healthcare can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near Brevard, North Carolina (ZIP code 28717), focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions. We'll examine flagship institutions, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings, offering a clear picture of the available healthcare landscape.

**The Landscape: Key Players and Proximity**

The immediate vicinity of Brevard, NC, is relatively rural, impacting the concentration of large hospitals. The primary healthcare providers serving this area are Mission Hospital, located in Asheville, and Transylvania Regional Hospital, situated directly in Brevard. While other smaller clinics and urgent care facilities exist, these two hospitals form the core of the region's acute care services. Proximity is a critical factor in healthcare access, and driving times should be considered when evaluating options.

**Mission Hospital (Asheville, NC): A Regional Powerhouse**

Mission Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare, is the dominant healthcare provider in Western North Carolina. It serves as a regional referral center, drawing patients from a wide geographic area, including Brevard.

**CMS Star Rating:** Mission Hospital has a mixed record. As of the latest publicly available data from CMS, Mission Hospital's overall star rating is a 3-star rating. It's important to note that CMS star ratings are just one metric, and they can fluctuate. Further investigation into specific areas of concern is always recommended.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times at Mission Hospital can vary. While precise, real-time wait times fluctuate significantly based on patient volume and acuity, historical data shows that Mission Hospital generally has wait times in line with the national average. Patients should always check current wait times through online portals or by calling the hospital directly.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** Mission Hospital boasts a comprehensive range of specialty centers. Notable examples include the Mission Heart Hospital, the Mission Cancer Center, and a robust neurosciences program. They also have a dedicated women's health center and a Level II Trauma Center, indicating the ability to handle a wide range of complex medical needs. The hospital's extensive network of specialists offers access to advanced treatments and technologies.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Mission Hospital has invested heavily in telehealth services. They offer virtual visits for various specialties, including primary care, behavioral health, and specialist consultations. This is particularly valuable for patients in rural areas who may face challenges accessing in-person appointments. Telehealth services can improve access to care and reduce travel time.

**Transylvania Regional Hospital (Brevard, NC): Serving the Local Community**

Transylvania Regional Hospital is a smaller, community-focused hospital located directly in Brevard. It plays a vital role in providing immediate care to the local population.

**CMS Star Rating:** Transylvania Regional Hospital has a 4-star rating from CMS. This rating indicates a generally good performance across various quality metrics.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times at Transylvania Regional Hospital are typically shorter than those at larger regional hospitals like Mission. This is partly due to lower patient volume. However, wait times can still fluctuate, and checking current conditions is always advisable.

**Specialty Centers and Services:** While smaller than Mission Hospital, Transylvania Regional Hospital offers a range of essential services, including a 24/7 emergency department, surgical services, and a comprehensive range of diagnostic imaging capabilities. They also have a dedicated labor and delivery unit and offer services in areas like cardiology and orthopedics.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Transylvania Regional Hospital also offers telehealth services, though perhaps on a smaller scale than Mission. These services can be particularly beneficial for accessing specialist consultations and follow-up care.

**Comparing the Options: Strengths and Weaknesses**

Choosing between Mission Hospital and Transylvania Regional Hospital involves considering several factors. Mission Hospital offers a broader range of specialized services and advanced technology, making it the preferred choice for complex medical conditions. However, the longer travel distance and potentially longer ER wait times should be considered. Transylvania Regional Hospital provides convenient access to local residents, with shorter wait times and a more intimate care setting. However, its range of specialized services is more limited.

**Beyond the Hospitals: Additional Considerations**

Beyond the two primary hospitals, several other factors influence overall healthcare access and quality in the Brevard area.

**Urgent Care Clinics:** Several urgent care clinics are located in and around Brevard. These facilities offer convenient access to care for minor illnesses and injuries, reducing the burden on hospital ERs.

**Primary Care Physicians:** The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for preventative care and ongoing health management. Patients should research and establish relationships with primary care providers in the area.

**Specialist Availability:** The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is essential for managing chronic conditions and accessing advanced treatments. Patients may need to travel to Asheville or other regional centers to see certain specialists.

**Mental Health Services:** Access to mental health services is a critical component of overall health. Patients should investigate the availability of mental health providers, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, in the Brevard area.

**Insurance Coverage:** Healthcare costs are a significant concern. Patients should understand their insurance coverage and the associated costs of care at different facilities.

**The Importance of Research and Informed Decisions**

Making informed healthcare decisions requires thorough research. Patients should utilize online resources, such as hospital websites, CMS data, and patient reviews, to gather information. Consulting with primary care physicians and seeking recommendations from trusted sources is also advisable.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the available data, here's a simplified assessment:

* **Mission Hospital:** Offers a wider range of specialized services and advanced technology, but with potentially longer wait times and a 3-star CMS rating. **Overall Score: 7.5/10** (considering its regional importance and breadth of services, despite the CMS rating).
* **Transylvania Regional Hospital:** Provides convenient access to local residents, shorter wait times, and a 4-star CMS rating, but with a more limited range of specialized services. **Overall Score: 8/10** (reflecting its strong performance in a smaller setting and its importance to the local community).

**Disclaimer:** This "Overall Health Score" is a subjective assessment based on publicly available data and should not be considered a definitive endorsement or condemnation of any hospital. Healthcare needs are individual, and patients should consult with healthcare professionals to determine the best course of action for their specific circumstances. Hospital ratings and wait times can change, so it's crucial to verify information directly with the hospitals.