28725, Dillsboro, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28725, Dillsboro, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 28725

Finding the right hospital is a critical decision, especially when facing a health crisis. For residents near ZIP code 28725 (primarily encompassing the town of Franklin, North Carolina, and surrounding areas in Macon County), access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review provides an overall health score assessment of the hospitals in the region, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, offering a fact-rich perspective to aid in informed decision-making.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Players and Their Footprints**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 28725 area are Angel Medical Center (AMC) and Mission Hospital. These hospitals represent the core of the local healthcare ecosystem, each with its own strengths and areas for potential improvement. Understanding their individual profiles is crucial to evaluating the overall health score for the region.

**Angel Medical Center: A Community Focus**

Angel Medical Center, a part of the larger HCA Healthcare network, is a critical access hospital located directly in Franklin. This designation means it receives specific funding and has certain operational requirements aimed at serving rural communities. AMC's focus is on providing essential services and maintaining accessibility within the immediate area.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance Metrics:**

Angel Medical Center’s CMS star rating is a key indicator of its overall quality. As of the latest available data, AMC has a 3-star rating. This rating, derived from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), considers factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, readmission rates, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates a level of competency, it also suggests that there is room for improvement compared to higher-rated facilities.

**Emergency Room Services:**

ER wait times are a significant concern for anyone needing immediate medical attention. AMC’s ER wait times, while fluctuating, are generally reported to be within the national average. This means that patients can expect to be seen by a medical professional within a reasonable timeframe, though specific wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases being treated.

**Specialty Services at Angel Medical Center:**

AMC offers a range of core medical services, including general surgery, internal medicine, cardiology, and diagnostic imaging. While the hospital is not a tertiary care center, it provides essential care for common medical conditions. The availability of specialized services like cardiology and diagnostic imaging is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment. The hospital has a dedicated surgical suite and offers a range of surgical procedures.

**Telehealth Initiatives:**

Telehealth is increasingly important for rural communities. AMC offers telehealth services, connecting patients with specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may have difficulty traveling long distances for appointments. Specific details on the range of telehealth services offered, such as the types of specialists available and the frequency of appointments, are important considerations.

**Mission Hospital: A Regional Hub**

Mission Hospital, located in Asheville, North Carolina, is the flagship hospital of HCA Healthcare's North Carolina Division. While not directly within the 28725 ZIP code, its proximity and comprehensive services make it a significant factor in the overall health score assessment for the region. Mission Hospital serves as a regional referral center, offering a wider range of specialized services than a community hospital.

**CMS Star Rating and Performance Metrics:**

Mission Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance across various quality measures. While the rating is the same as Angel Medical Center, the scale of services and the patient population differ significantly, which influences the interpretation of the rating.

**Emergency Room Services:**

Mission Hospital's ER sees a high volume of patients. ER wait times can be longer than at smaller facilities. The hospital's website and online resources provide real-time updates on ER wait times, allowing patients to make informed decisions about where to seek care.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Mission Hospital boasts a wide array of specialty centers, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and orthopedics. The hospital is equipped with advanced technology and a highly skilled medical staff. The availability of these specialized services is a significant advantage for patients needing complex care. Mission's Heart Institute, Cancer Center, and Neuroscience Center are particularly noteworthy.

**Telehealth Initiatives:**

Mission Hospital has a robust telehealth program. It offers virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and access to specialists across various medical disciplines. This is especially beneficial for patients in rural areas who may not have easy access to specialized care. The hospital's telehealth platform provides a convenient way for patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes.

**The Health Score: A Comparative Analysis**

Evaluating the overall health score for the 28725 area requires a comparative analysis of the available healthcare options. Angel Medical Center provides essential services and offers a convenient option for local residents. However, its 3-star CMS rating suggests areas for improvement in quality metrics. Mission Hospital, with its broader range of services and specialized centers, offers a higher level of care. However, its location outside of the immediate ZIP code and the potential for longer wait times in the ER are factors to consider.

**Other Considerations: Access and Affordability**

Beyond the performance metrics of the hospitals, access to care and affordability are crucial factors in the overall health score. Transportation limitations, insurance coverage, and the cost of medical services all play a role in determining the accessibility of healthcare for residents of the 28725 area.

**Access to Specialists:**

The availability of specialists in the immediate area is a key factor. The ability to see a specialist without traveling long distances is a significant advantage for patients. The number of specialists available in areas like cardiology, neurology, and oncology is an important consideration.

**Mental Health Services:**

Access to mental health services is a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for residents in the 28725 area.

**Preventive Care:**

The availability of preventive care services, such as routine checkups, screenings, and vaccinations, is crucial for maintaining good health. The ease of access to these services can significantly impact the overall health of the community.

**The Role of Telehealth in Rural Healthcare**

Telehealth plays a vital role in bridging the healthcare gap in rural areas. The ability to connect with specialists remotely can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and enhance the overall health outcomes for residents of the 28725 area. The availability of telehealth services at both Angel Medical Center and Mission Hospital is a positive factor in the overall health score.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in the 28725 Area**

The overall health score for residents near ZIP code 28725 is a complex assessment. Angel Medical Center provides essential services and local convenience, while Mission Hospital offers a broader range of specialized care. The 3-star CMS ratings for both hospitals suggest that there is room for improvement in quality metrics. Patients in the area should consider their individual needs, the availability of specific services, and the potential for travel when making healthcare decisions. The increasing availability of telehealth services offers a promising avenue for improving access to care, particularly for those in rural areas. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the available healthcare options, residents can make informed choices and navigate the healthcare system effectively.