28806, Asheville, North Carolina Overall Health Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Overall Health Score in 28806, Asheville, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Overall Health Score: Hospitals Near Asheville, NC (ZIP Code 28806)

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting. This review provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of hospitals near the 28806 ZIP code, encompassing Asheville, North Carolina, offering insights into quality, accessibility, and specialized services. The analysis considers factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities to provide a comprehensive picture.

**Mission Hospital: The Regional Powerhouse**

Mission Hospital, a flagship facility of HCA Healthcare, dominates the Asheville healthcare scene. It is a large, comprehensive hospital offering a wide array of services. Mission Hospital is the primary choice for many residents in the area.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Indicators:**

Mission Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a complex evaluation of various quality metrics. CMS assesses hospitals on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. The 3-star rating indicates that Mission Hospital performs at or slightly below the national average in many key areas.

Specific quality indicators at Mission Hospital show mixed results. For example, the hospital generally performs well in measures related to heart attack and stroke care, adhering to established guidelines for timely treatment. However, it experiences challenges in areas like hospital-acquired infections, where rates can fluctuate. Patient satisfaction scores, as measured by the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey, are also an important indicator. Mission Hospital's HCAHPS scores are often around the national average, with room for improvement in areas like communication with nurses and doctors.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

Emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial aspect of accessibility. Mission Hospital's ER typically experiences moderate wait times. While specific wait times fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume, the average wait time can range from 30 minutes to an hour or more. This is a critical consideration for patients with urgent medical needs. The hospital's ER sees a high volume of patients, which can contribute to longer wait times, particularly during peak hours.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

Mission Hospital boasts a robust network of specialty centers. The hospital has a well-regarded heart center, offering advanced cardiac procedures and treatments. It also features a comprehensive cancer center, providing a range of oncology services, including radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Other notable specialties include a dedicated women's health center, a neurosciences institute, and a robust orthopedic program. The hospital also has a Level II Trauma Center, equipped to handle serious injuries and emergencies.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery. Mission Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring services. These services are particularly valuable for follow-up appointments and managing chronic conditions. The hospital is actively working to expand its telehealth capabilities to reach a wider patient population and improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas.

**Other Hospitals and Healthcare Options:**

While Mission Hospital is the largest and most comprehensive facility, other healthcare options exist near the 28806 ZIP code. These include smaller hospitals, urgent care clinics, and outpatient facilities. These options can provide alternative care pathways depending on the patient's needs.

**AdventHealth Hendersonville:**

Located a bit further afield, AdventHealth Hendersonville offers another option. While not directly within the 28806 ZIP code, it serves a significant portion of the surrounding area. AdventHealth Hendersonville has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to Mission Hospital. This hospital is known for its strong performance in patient safety and overall patient experience.

AdventHealth Hendersonville's ER typically has shorter wait times than Mission Hospital, making it a good option for patients seeking prompt emergency care. The hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and women's health. AdventHealth has also invested in telehealth services, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**CarePartners Rehabilitation Hospital:**

CarePartners Rehabilitation Hospital specializes in rehabilitation services. This facility provides intensive therapy for patients recovering from strokes, traumatic brain injuries, and other conditions. It offers a comprehensive range of rehabilitation programs, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. CarePartners is a vital resource for patients needing specialized rehabilitation care.

**Urgent Care Clinics:**

Several urgent care clinics operate in the Asheville area, offering convenient care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. These clinics typically have shorter wait times than hospital ERs and can provide a cost-effective alternative for certain medical needs. They are often open during evenings and weekends, providing accessibility for patients who cannot see their primary care physicians during regular business hours.

**Outpatient Facilities:**

Numerous outpatient facilities offer a variety of services, including diagnostic imaging, laboratory testing, and specialized medical procedures. These facilities help to alleviate the burden on hospitals and provide convenient access to care for patients. They are often more affordable than hospital-based services.

**Key Considerations for Patients:**

When choosing a hospital or healthcare provider, several factors should be considered. These include:

* **Severity of the Condition:** For life-threatening emergencies, the nearest ER is typically the best option. For less urgent conditions, urgent care clinics or primary care physicians may be more appropriate.
* **Specialty Needs:** Patients with specific medical conditions should seek providers with expertise in those areas.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Patients should ensure that their chosen provider is in their insurance network.
* **Patient Preferences:** Personal preferences, such as proximity to home, patient reviews, and communication style, are also important.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The healthcare landscape near the 28806 ZIP code offers a range of options. Mission Hospital, while the largest and most comprehensive, presents mixed quality scores. AdventHealth Hendersonville offers a higher CMS rating and shorter ER wait times. Other facilities, such as CarePartners and various outpatient clinics, provide specialized services.

**Recommendations:**

* **For emergencies:** Mission Hospital's ER is the primary choice, but AdventHealth Hendersonville offers a potentially faster alternative.
* **For specialized care:** Consider Mission Hospital's specialty centers or explore options at AdventHealth Hendersonville or other specialized facilities.
* **For non-urgent care:** Urgent care clinics and primary care physicians provide convenient and cost-effective alternatives.
* **For rehabilitation:** CarePartners Rehabilitation Hospital offers comprehensive rehabilitation services.

The "Overall Health Score" for hospitals near 28806 is a nuanced assessment. While Mission Hospital serves as a regional hub, patients should carefully evaluate their individual needs and consider the strengths and weaknesses of each provider. Seeking information from multiple sources, including patient reviews and physician recommendations, is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions. This review provides a starting point for navigating the healthcare options available in the Asheville area, allowing patients to make informed choices that align with their specific needs and preferences. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and patients should stay informed about the latest developments and changes in the local healthcare system.