28788, Webster, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28788, Webster, North Carolina is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28788 (Waynesville, NC)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals serving the Waynesville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28788) area, focusing on key metrics to help you make informed decisions. This score considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability. Due to the rural nature of the region, the options are more limited than in a major metropolitan area.

**The Primary Contender: Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC)**

Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) in nearby Clyde, NC, is the dominant healthcare provider for the 28788 ZIP code. HRMC is a 196-bed acute care facility. Its performance is crucial to the overall health score for the region.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality:**

HRMC holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, signifies an average performance across various quality measures. CMS evaluates hospitals on metrics including mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, patient experience, timely and effective care, and efficient use of medical imaging. The 3-star rating suggests areas for improvement, and it is important to delve deeper into specific performance indicators.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a critical factor for any hospital. HRMC's ER wait times are generally in line with or slightly better than the national average for similar-sized hospitals. However, specific wait times fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of patient cases. Real-time wait time information is often available on the hospital's website or through third-party apps. Average ER wait times can be a good indicator of the overall efficiency of the ER.

**Specialty Services at HRMC:**

HRMC offers a range of specialty services. It has a comprehensive cardiac program, including interventional cardiology. The hospital also provides services in areas such as orthopedics, general surgery, women's health, and cancer care. HRMC has a dedicated cancer center, which is a significant asset for the community. The availability of these specialties reduces the need for patients to travel to larger hospitals in Asheville or beyond.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, especially in rural areas. HRMC has integrated telehealth into its services, offering virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. The extent of telehealth integration, including the availability of various specialties via telehealth, is a key factor in the overall health score.

**Other Healthcare Options:**

While HRMC is the primary hospital, other options exist within a reasonable driving distance. These options impact the overall healthcare landscape and contribute to the overall health score.

**Mission Hospital (Asheville):**

Mission Hospital in Asheville, approximately 30-45 minutes away, is a large, regional referral center. It is a part of HCA Healthcare and has a 3-star CMS rating. While the distance might be a factor, Mission Hospital offers a broader range of specialty services and a higher level of care for complex medical needs. It is a Level II Trauma Center.

**Specialty Services at Mission Hospital:**

Mission Hospital excels in several areas. It has advanced cardiac and vascular programs, a comprehensive cancer center, and specialized units for stroke care, neurosurgery, and transplant services. Mission Hospital's extensive network of specialists makes it a valuable resource for the region.

**ER Wait Times at Mission Hospital:**

ER wait times at Mission Hospital can be longer than those at HRMC, particularly during peak hours. The volume of patients and the complexity of cases contribute to these longer wait times. Patients should check real-time wait times before traveling to the ER, if possible.

**Telehealth at Mission Hospital:**

Mission Hospital has a robust telehealth program. It offers virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and other telehealth services across various specialties. This enhances access to care for patients in the surrounding areas.

**CarePartners Health Services:**

CarePartners, also located in Asheville, provides specialized rehabilitation, palliative care, and hospice services. These services are essential for patients recovering from illness or managing chronic conditions. CarePartners is a valuable resource for post-acute care and end-of-life support.

**Other Outpatient Services:**

Several outpatient clinics and physician practices are located in the Waynesville area. These clinics provide primary care, specialized medical services, and diagnostic testing. These clinics contribute to the overall health score by providing convenient access to care.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for the 28788 ZIP code is influenced by several factors:

* **Accessibility:** The proximity of hospitals and clinics is crucial. The shorter the travel time, the better the accessibility.
* **Quality of Care:** CMS star ratings, hospital-acquired infection rates, and patient satisfaction scores are important indicators of quality.
* **Specialty Services:** The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics, is a significant factor.
* **ER Performance:** ER wait times and the efficiency of the emergency department are critical, especially in urgent situations.
* **Telehealth Integration:** The use of telehealth services can improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas.
* **Community Health Needs:** The specific health needs of the population, such as the prevalence of chronic diseases, influence the overall health score.
* **Cost of Care:** While not a primary focus of this review, the cost of healthcare is an important consideration for patients.

**Analysis and Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for the 28788 ZIP code is "Average to Good." HRMC provides a solid foundation of care, with a range of specialty services and reasonable ER wait times. The 3-star CMS rating suggests areas for improvement, but the hospital is the primary provider for the area. The proximity of Mission Hospital in Asheville provides access to more specialized care, although travel time and potentially longer ER wait times are considerations. The availability of outpatient clinics and telehealth services further enhances the overall health score. The community's health needs and the cost of care should also be considered when evaluating the overall health of the region.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **HRMC should focus on improving its CMS star rating.** This can be achieved by focusing on quality metrics, patient safety, and patient experience.
* **Continued investment in telehealth services is crucial.** Expanding the availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring can improve access to care.
* **Community outreach and education programs are important.** These programs can help residents understand their health risks and access available resources.
* **Collaboration between HRMC, Mission Hospital, and other healthcare providers is beneficial.** This can improve coordination of care and reduce duplication of services.

**Conclusion:**

The healthcare landscape around the 28788 ZIP code offers a range of options. While HRMC serves as the primary provider, Mission Hospital and other outpatient services add to the overall health score. Patients should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and preferences when choosing a healthcare provider. This review provides a starting point for making informed decisions about healthcare in the Waynesville, NC area.