41751, Jeff, Kentucky Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 41751, Jeff, Kentucky is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Care in the Heart of Appalachia: A Hospital Review Near 41751

Finding quality Alzheimer's care can be a daunting task, especially in rural areas. This review focuses on hospitals near the ZIP code 41751 (Pikeville, Kentucky) to assess the available resources for individuals and families navigating this challenging disease. We'll examine hospital ratings, specialty centers, wait times, and telehealth options to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Pikeville, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents unique challenges and opportunities for healthcare. The region often faces limitations in specialist availability and access to advanced medical technologies. However, a strong sense of community and dedication from healthcare providers can also be a significant asset.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a snapshot of overall quality. These ratings consider various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Hospitals near 41751 include:

* **Pikeville Medical Center (PMC):** PMC is a major regional medical center and the primary healthcare provider for the area. It is the only hospital in the area with a CMS star rating. PMC has a 3-star rating, reflecting a mixed performance in several areas. PMC's rating reflects the hospital's performance in areas such as patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

ER wait times are a critical factor, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's who may experience acute medical needs. Unfortunately, public data on real-time ER wait times is not consistently available for all hospitals.

* **Pikeville Medical Center (PMC):** PMC is the primary emergency care provider in the area. While specific wait times fluctuate, it's advisable to contact the hospital directly or consult online resources like Google Maps for estimated wait times during your visit.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

Alzheimer's care often requires a multidisciplinary approach. The availability of specialized centers and services is crucial.

* **Pikeville Medical Center (PMC):** PMC has several specialty centers that may be relevant to Alzheimer's care, including neurology, geriatrics, and rehabilitation services.

**Neurology Services:** A neurologist can diagnose and manage Alzheimer's disease, prescribing medications and monitoring the patient's condition.

**Geriatric Services:** A geriatrician specializes in the healthcare of older adults and can address the complex medical needs of individuals with Alzheimer's, including managing co-existing conditions.

**Rehabilitation Services:** Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can help maintain function and improve quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and provide remote monitoring capabilities.

* **Pikeville Medical Center (PMC):** PMC has invested in telehealth capabilities, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options. Telehealth can be particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to caregivers. It is important to inquire about the specific telehealth services available for neurology and geriatric care.

**Caregiver Support and Resources**

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be incredibly demanding. Access to caregiver support groups, educational resources, and respite care is vital.

* **Pikeville Medical Center (PMC):** PMC likely offers caregiver support groups or can provide information on local resources.

**Additional Considerations**

* **Long-Term Care Facilities:** The availability of skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities with specialized memory care units is essential. Researching the quality and staffing levels of these facilities is critical.
* **Home Healthcare:** Home healthcare agencies can provide in-home assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, and skilled nursing care.
* **Transportation:** Transportation challenges can be significant in rural areas. Consider the availability of transportation services for medical appointments and other needs.
* **Community Resources:** Local organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association, can provide valuable information, support, and resources.

**Detailed Hospital Profiles:**

**Pikeville Medical Center (PMC)**

* **Address:** 911 Bypass Rd, Pikeville, KY 41501
* **CMS Star Rating:** 3 stars
* **Key Departments:** Neurology, Geriatrics, Rehabilitation, Emergency Department
* **Telehealth:** Offers telehealth services, inquire about specific neurology and geriatric offerings.
* **Caregiver Support:** Inquire about available support groups and resources.
* **ER Wait Times:** Variable, contact the hospital or use online resources for estimates.

**Recommendations**

* **Contact Hospitals Directly:** Contact PMC to inquire about specific services, telehealth options, and caregiver support.
* **Research Long-Term Care Facilities:** Investigate the quality and staffing of local skilled nursing and assisted living facilities with memory care units.
* **Explore Community Resources:** Connect with the Alzheimer's Association and other local organizations for information and support.
* **Assess Transportation Options:** Plan for transportation needs, considering the challenges of rural areas.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Explore the potential benefits of telehealth for accessing specialists and receiving remote monitoring.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized recommendations and treatment plans. Hospital ratings and services can change, so it's always best to verify information directly with the facilities.