27884, Stokes, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27884, Stokes, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Care in the 27884 Vicinity: A Hospital Scorecard

Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease requires access to specialized medical care, support services, and a deep understanding of the disease. This review assesses the hospitals in and around the 27884 ZIP code, focusing on their capacity to address the needs of Alzheimer's patients and their families. The analysis considers factors like hospital quality ratings, specialized centers, emergency room wait times, telehealth capabilities, and overall accessibility.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The 27884 ZIP code encompasses the town of Tarboro, North Carolina, and surrounding areas in Edgecombe County. The healthcare landscape in this region is primarily served by a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Access to specialized Alzheimer's care may require travel to facilities in neighboring counties or cities.

**Key Hospitals and Their Alzheimer's Care Profiles:**

**1. Vidant Edgecombe Hospital (Tarboro, NC):**

Vidant Edgecombe Hospital is the primary healthcare provider within the 27884 ZIP code. As a community hospital, it offers a range of general medical services. However, its specific Alzheimer's care offerings are limited. Vidant Edgecombe Hospital does not have a dedicated Alzheimer's specialty center. Information regarding specific programs, such as memory clinics or geriatric psychiatry services, should be obtained directly from the hospital.

**CMS Star Rating:** Vidant Edgecombe Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

**ER Wait Times:** Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. Patients should contact the hospital directly or consult online resources for the most up-to-date information.

**Telehealth:** Vidant Health, the parent organization of Vidant Edgecombe Hospital, has expanded its telehealth services. The availability of telehealth appointments for geriatric care or neurology consultations, relevant to Alzheimer's, should be verified with the hospital.

**2. Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC):**

Located approximately 30 miles from Tarboro, Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, NC, serves as a regional referral center and offers a broader range of specialized services. Vidant Medical Center is a flagship hospital within the Vidant Health system.

**Alzheimer's Care at Vidant Medical Center:** Vidant Medical Center has a more robust infrastructure for Alzheimer's care compared to Vidant Edgecombe Hospital. It has a dedicated Memory Disorder Clinic, which provides comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, treatment planning, and ongoing support for patients and their families. The clinic includes neurologists, neuropsychologists, and other specialists experienced in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

**CMS Star Rating:** Vidant Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.

**ER Wait Times:** As a larger hospital, ER wait times at Vidant Medical Center can vary. Checking real-time wait times online or contacting the hospital is recommended.

**Telehealth:** Vidant Medical Center has a strong telehealth program. Telehealth appointments are likely available for neurology consultations and follow-up appointments related to Alzheimer's care.

**3. ECU Health Bertie Hospital (Windsor, NC):**

ECU Health Bertie Hospital is located approximately 40 miles from Tarboro.

**Alzheimer's Care at ECU Health Bertie Hospital:** ECU Health Bertie Hospital, as a smaller community hospital, may have limited specialized Alzheimer's care services. Patients may need to seek more specialized care at Vidant Medical Center or other regional facilities.

**CMS Star Rating:** ECU Health Bertie Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.

**ER Wait Times:** Patients should contact the hospital directly or consult online resources for the most up-to-date information.

**Telehealth:** Telehealth services may be available for general medical consultations. Specific availability for neurology or geriatric care related to Alzheimer's should be confirmed with the hospital.

**4. UNC Health Nash (Rocky Mount, NC):**

Located approximately 30 miles from Tarboro, UNC Health Nash offers a range of healthcare services.

**Alzheimer's Care at UNC Health Nash:** UNC Health Nash may offer some services related to Alzheimer's care, such as general neurology consultations or access to geriatric specialists. However, it may not have a dedicated memory clinic or specialized Alzheimer's program.

**CMS Star Rating:** UNC Health Nash currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.

**ER Wait Times:** Patients should contact the hospital directly or consult online resources for the most up-to-date information.

**Telehealth:** Telehealth services may be available for general medical consultations. Specific availability for neurology or geriatric care related to Alzheimer's should be confirmed with the hospital.

**Factors to Consider in Choosing a Hospital:**

Beyond the specific services offered, several factors are crucial when selecting a hospital for Alzheimer's care:

* **Specialized Expertise:** Look for hospitals with neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists experienced in diagnosing and treating Alzheimer's.
* **Memory Clinics:** Dedicated memory clinics provide comprehensive assessments, treatment plans, and ongoing support.
* **Support Services:** Inquire about support groups, caregiver education programs, and social work services.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can improve access to specialists and follow-up care, especially for patients in rural areas.
* **Hospital Ratings:** CMS star ratings and other quality metrics provide insights into a hospital's overall performance.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the hospital, transportation options, and ease of access for patients with mobility issues.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gauge the hospital's patient-centered approach and communication skills.
* **Caregiver Support:** Assess the hospital's commitment to supporting caregivers, including educational resources and respite care options.

**Telehealth: A Growing Resource:**

Telehealth has emerged as a valuable tool in Alzheimer's care, especially for patients in rural areas. Telehealth appointments can provide convenient access to neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists. They can also facilitate remote monitoring, medication management, and caregiver support. Hospitals in the region, including Vidant Medical Center, have been expanding their telehealth capabilities. Patients and families should inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments for neurology consultations, medication management, and follow-up care.

**Emergency Room Considerations:**

ER wait times are a critical factor, especially for patients with Alzheimer's who may experience acute medical issues. It's important to check real-time wait times before visiting the ER. The ER staff should be trained to handle patients with cognitive impairments and provide a calm and supportive environment.

**Support Beyond the Hospital:**

While hospitals provide essential medical care, comprehensive Alzheimer's care involves a broader network of support. This includes:

* **Primary Care Physicians:** Your primary care physician can provide ongoing care and coordinate referrals to specialists.
* **Home Health Agencies:** Home health agencies offer in-home care, medication management, and other support services.
* **Adult Day Care Centers:** Adult day care centers provide structured activities and social interaction for individuals with Alzheimer's.
* **Support Groups:** Support groups offer a safe space for caregivers to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies.
* **Community Resources:** Local Area Agencies on Aging and Alzheimer's Association chapters provide information, resources, and support services.

**Conclusion:**

Access to specialized Alzheimer's care in the 27884 area requires careful consideration of the available resources. While Vidant Edgecombe Hospital serves as the local community hospital, Vidant Medical Center in Greenville offers a more comprehensive approach, including a dedicated Memory Disorder Clinic. UNC Health Nash and ECU Health Bertie Hospital may provide some services. Families should evaluate the specific needs of their loved ones and consider factors like specialized expertise, support services, and telehealth availability. By researching the available options and utilizing community resources, families can create a comprehensive care plan for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease. The ongoing expansion of telehealth services offers promising opportunities for improving access to care and support for patients and their caregivers in this region.