02702, Assonet, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02702, Assonet, Massachusetts is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Care in the 02702 Area: A Review of Hospital Options

Finding the right care for Alzheimer's disease is a complex journey. This review focuses on hospital options near ZIP code 02702 (Attleboro, Massachusetts), assessing their capabilities in Alzheimer's diagnosis, treatment, and support services. The information provided is based on publicly available data, including CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings, and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in the 02702 area is the network of larger hospitals. These facilities often boast more comprehensive services and specialized departments. A critical metric for evaluating hospital quality is the CMS star rating. This rating system, based on a five-star scale, provides a snapshot of a hospital's overall performance across various quality measures.

**Sturdy Memorial Hospital (Attleboro, MA):** Sturdy Memorial Hospital, located directly within the 02702 ZIP code, is a key provider for the local community. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it's essential to check the most recent data on the CMS Hospital Compare website for the current rating. This will reflect the hospital's performance in areas like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. Sturdy Memorial offers a range of services, including a dedicated geriatric care unit and various outpatient programs. The hospital's website and patient services can provide information on their specific Alzheimer's-related services and support groups.

**Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, RI):** Located a short drive from Attleboro, Rhode Island Hospital is a major tertiary care center and a flagship hospital within the Lifespan health system. Rhode Island Hospital typically holds a high CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient care. It is a teaching hospital with a robust research program and access to cutting-edge treatments. They have a dedicated neurology department and likely offer specialized services for Alzheimer's disease, including diagnostic testing, medication management, and access to clinical trials. It's important to consult their website or call to confirm the specific services and programs available.

**Kent Hospital (Warwick, RI):** Also within driving distance, Kent Hospital is part of the Care New England health system. Like Rhode Island Hospital, Kent Hospital is a large facility that likely has a neurology department and offers services related to Alzheimer's disease. Checking the CMS star rating and exploring their website for specific geriatric or memory care programs is crucial.

**Emergency Room Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are a significant factor when considering healthcare options, particularly in urgent situations that may arise with Alzheimer's patients. The average wait times can vary depending on the day, time, and the volume of patients.

**Sturdy Memorial Hospital:** As a local hospital, Sturdy Memorial Hospital is likely to be the most accessible for residents of the 02702 area. Checking their website or calling the hospital can provide information on current ER wait times.

**Rhode Island Hospital and Kent Hospital:** While offering more specialized services, Rhode Island Hospital and Kent Hospital are further away. This may increase travel time, which is a critical consideration during an emergency. Real-time wait time information is often available on their websites or through online platforms.

**Specialty Centers and Geriatric Care**

Beyond general hospital services, specialized centers and geriatric care units are crucial for Alzheimer's patients. These centers often offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and support services for both patients and their families.

**Sturdy Memorial Hospital:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital has a geriatric care unit, offering specialized care for older adults. This can be a valuable resource for Alzheimer's patients. Contacting the hospital directly to inquire about their specific geriatric services and any dedicated memory care programs is highly recommended.

**Rhode Island Hospital:** Rhode Island Hospital's neurology department is likely to have specialists in Alzheimer's disease. They may offer a dedicated memory clinic or access to specialized testing and treatment options.

**Kent Hospital:** Kent Hospital's neurology department also likely has specialists in Alzheimer's disease. Contacting the hospital directly to inquire about their specific geriatric services and any dedicated memory care programs is highly recommended.

**Diagnostic Capabilities and Treatment Options**

Accurate diagnosis is the first step in managing Alzheimer's disease. Hospitals in the 02702 area should offer a range of diagnostic tools, including cognitive assessments, neurological examinations, and advanced imaging techniques like MRI and PET scans.

**Sturdy Memorial Hospital:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital can perform standard cognitive assessments and neurological examinations. For more advanced imaging, they may refer patients to larger hospitals like Rhode Island Hospital.

**Rhode Island Hospital:** Rhode Island Hospital has the resources to perform comprehensive diagnostic testing, including advanced imaging and access to the latest diagnostic tools.

**Kent Hospital:** Kent Hospital can perform standard cognitive assessments and neurological examinations. For more advanced imaging, they may refer patients to larger hospitals like Rhode Island Hospital.

Treatment options for Alzheimer's disease focus on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. This includes medication management, lifestyle modifications, and therapies like cognitive rehabilitation.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Telehealth allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of patient health.

**Sturdy Memorial Hospital:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital may offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations with physicians. It's essential to check their website or contact them directly to confirm the availability of telehealth services for Alzheimer's patients.

**Rhode Island Hospital and Kent Hospital:** Both hospitals likely have robust telehealth programs, including virtual appointments with neurologists and geriatric specialists. These programs can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication management.

**Support Services and Community Resources**

Beyond medical care, support services are essential for Alzheimer's patients and their families. These services include support groups, caregiver education programs, and access to community resources.

**Sturdy Memorial Hospital:** Sturdy Memorial Hospital may offer support groups or connect patients and families with local resources.

**Rhode Island Hospital and Kent Hospital:** Both hospitals likely have strong connections with community organizations and support groups. They may offer caregiver education programs and resources to help families navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

**The Alzheimer's Association:** The Alzheimer's Association is a valuable resource for patients and families. They offer support groups, educational programs, and information on local resources. Their website (alz.org) can help locate local chapters and support services in the 02702 area.

**Navigating the Healthcare System**

The healthcare system can be complex. When seeking care for Alzheimer's disease, it's essential to have a primary care physician who can coordinate care and provide referrals to specialists.

**Insurance Coverage:** Understanding insurance coverage is crucial. Patients should verify their insurance plan's coverage for diagnostic testing, medication, and therapies.

**Care Coordination:** Effective care coordination is essential. Patients and families should work closely with their physicians, specialists, and social workers to ensure a coordinated approach to care.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for Alzheimer's care near 02702 requires careful consideration. Sturdy Memorial Hospital offers local access and geriatric care, while Rhode Island Hospital and Kent Hospital provide more specialized services and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Evaluating CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center offerings, and telehealth options is crucial. Equally important is accessing support services and community resources to provide comprehensive care for both the patient and their family. The information provided in this review is intended to be a starting point for research and should be supplemented by direct contact with the hospitals and consultations with healthcare professionals.