36455, Lockhart, Alabama Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36455, Lockhart, Alabama is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in the 36455 Area

Navigating healthcare, especially when facing the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, requires careful consideration. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near the 36455 ZIP code, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, to assist in making informed decisions. This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The 36455 ZIP code encompasses the town of Monroeville, Alabama, and surrounding areas. Healthcare access in this region is primarily centered around the Monroe County Hospital, the main hospital in the area. However, residents often seek specialized care and advanced treatment options in larger cities like Mobile, Alabama, and Pensacola, Florida, which are within reasonable driving distances. This review will consider hospitals within a 50-75 mile radius, acknowledging the potential for travel for specialized Alzheimer's care.

**Monroe County Hospital: The Local Hub**

Monroe County Hospital, located directly within the 36455 ZIP code, serves as the primary healthcare provider for the community. Unfortunately, CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) does not provide a star rating for Monroe County Hospital. This lack of a rating can make it more difficult to assess the hospital's overall quality of care. However, it's important to note that CMS ratings are not the sole indicator of quality, and local hospitals often excel in providing personalized care and community support.

ER wait times at Monroe County Hospital can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of cases. While specific, publicly available data on average wait times is not readily accessible, it's advisable to contact the hospital directly or check local news reports for the most current information.

**Specialty Centers and Alzheimer's Care at Monroe County Hospital**

Monroe County Hospital offers a range of services, including general medicine, surgery, and emergency care. However, the hospital's specific offerings in Alzheimer's care may be limited. It is crucial to contact the hospital directly to inquire about their geriatric services, memory care programs, and access to neurologists or specialists who can diagnose and manage Alzheimer's disease. The hospital may also offer support groups or resources for patients and their families.

**Telehealth Capabilities at Monroe County Hospital**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. Monroe County Hospital may offer telehealth services, potentially including consultations with specialists, medication management, and follow-up appointments. Contacting the hospital directly is the best way to determine the availability and scope of their telehealth offerings.

**Expanding the Search: Hospitals in Mobile, Alabama**

Mobile, Alabama, located approximately 80 miles south of Monroeville, offers a wider array of healthcare options, including several hospitals with CMS star ratings. This makes Mobile a frequent destination for residents of the 36455 area seeking specialized care.

**University Hospital (Mobile, AL):**

University Hospital, part of the University of South Alabama Health System, holds a 3-star CMS rating. This indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. University Hospital has a dedicated neurology department, which is crucial for Alzheimer's care. The hospital offers comprehensive neurological services, including diagnostic testing, treatment, and management of cognitive disorders.

ER wait times at University Hospital vary. However, publicly available data from sources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms can provide estimates. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

University Hospital may offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations with neurologists and other specialists. Contacting the hospital directly or visiting their website is the best way to determine the scope of their telehealth offerings.

**Providence Hospital (Mobile, AL):**

Providence Hospital, part of Ascension, is another significant healthcare provider in Mobile. Providence Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. Providence Hospital has a neurology department. Information on specific Alzheimer's care programs should be obtained by contacting the hospital directly.

ER wait times at Providence Hospital can vary. Publicly available data from sources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms can provide estimates.

Providence Hospital likely offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists. Contacting the hospital directly or visiting their website is the best way to determine the scope of their telehealth offerings.

**Mobile Infirmary Medical Center (Mobile, AL):**

Mobile Infirmary Medical Center, a part of Infirmary Health, is a major hospital in Mobile. Mobile Infirmary has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of quality compared to the national average. Mobile Infirmary has a neurology department that is likely to offer specialized care for Alzheimer's disease. The hospital may offer memory care clinics, diagnostic services, and access to neurologists specializing in cognitive disorders.

ER wait times at Mobile Infirmary vary. Publicly available data from the hospital's website or third-party platforms can provide estimates.

Mobile Infirmary likely offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists. Contacting the hospital directly or visiting their website is the best way to determine the scope of their telehealth offerings.

**Expanding the Search: Hospitals in Pensacola, Florida**

Pensacola, Florida, located approximately 100 miles southwest of Monroeville, is another option for specialized care, especially for those seeking access to the Florida healthcare system.

**Baptist Hospital (Pensacola, FL):**

Baptist Hospital, part of Baptist Health Care, is a major hospital in Pensacola. Baptist Hospital has a 4-star CMS rating. Baptist Hospital has a neurology department, which is essential for Alzheimer's care. The hospital may offer memory care clinics, diagnostic services, and access to neurologists specializing in cognitive disorders.

ER wait times at Baptist Hospital vary. Publicly available data from the hospital's website or third-party platforms can provide estimates.

Baptist Hospital likely offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists. Contacting the hospital directly or visiting their website is the best way to determine the scope of their telehealth offerings.

**Considerations for Alzheimer's Care**

When evaluating hospitals for Alzheimer's care, consider the following:

* **Neurology Department:** A dedicated neurology department with specialists in cognitive disorders is crucial.
* **Memory Care Programs:** Inquire about memory care clinics, support groups, and specialized programs for Alzheimer's patients.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** Ensure the hospital offers comprehensive diagnostic testing, including cognitive assessments and imaging.
* **Geriatric Services:** Look for hospitals with geriatric specialists who understand the unique needs of older adults.
* **Telehealth Options:** Telehealth can provide convenient access to specialists and ongoing care.
* **Caregiver Support:** Inquire about resources and support services for caregivers.

**Additional Resources**

* **The Alzheimer's Association:** The Alzheimer's Association (alz.org) provides valuable information, support, and resources for patients and families.
* **The National Institute on Aging:** The National Institute on Aging (nia.nih.gov) offers research-based information on Alzheimer's disease.
* **Local Support Groups:** Contact local organizations and community centers to find support groups and resources in the 36455 area.

**Conclusion**

Navigating healthcare near the 36455 ZIP code for Alzheimer's care requires careful consideration of available resources. While Monroe County Hospital serves as the local hub, residents may need to travel to Mobile, Alabama, or Pensacola, Florida, to access specialized care and advanced treatment options. Evaluating hospitals based on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities is crucial. By utilizing the information provided in this review, along with additional research and consultation with healthcare professionals, individuals can make informed decisions and secure the best possible care for themselves or their loved ones. Remember, the best course of action is to contact the hospitals directly to inquire about their specific programs and services related to Alzheimer's disease.