28367, Norman, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28367, Norman, North Carolina is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare for Memory Care Near ZIP Code 28367

This review assesses healthcare options for individuals and families navigating Alzheimer's disease near ZIP code 28367 (Lumberton, North Carolina), focusing on hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility. The "Alzheimer's Score" considers factors crucial for memory care, including neurological expertise, geriatric services, and ease of access to care. This review prioritizes factual information and avoids subjective rankings, aiming to provide a clear picture of available resources.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The primary hospital serving the Lumberton area is **Southeastern Regional Medical Center**, located within ZIP code 28358. As of the latest available data, Southeastern Regional Medical Center does not have a publicly available CMS star rating. This rating system, administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), provides a general measure of hospital quality based on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While the absence of a star rating doesn't definitively indicate poor quality, it limits the ability to make direct comparisons based on this widely recognized metric. It's important to note that CMS star ratings can change and should be viewed as one piece of the overall picture.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for any healthcare need, especially in situations involving cognitive decline or medical emergencies related to Alzheimer's. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, general data indicates the average wait time at Southeastern Regional Medical Center varies. Patients and their families should contact the hospital directly or utilize online resources to obtain the most up-to-date information on current wait times. Long wait times can be particularly challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety and confusion.

**Specialty Centers and Neurological Expertise:**

The availability of specialized centers and neurological expertise is paramount in Alzheimer's care. Southeastern Regional Medical Center offers neurological services, including neurology consultations. The hospital's website and patient services department can provide specific details regarding the availability of neurologists specializing in cognitive disorders, diagnostic capabilities (such as MRI and CT scans), and treatment options. Assessing the expertise and experience of the neurology team is crucial when choosing a hospital for Alzheimer's care.

**Geriatric Services:**

Geriatric services are essential for providing comprehensive care for older adults, many of whom are affected by Alzheimer's. These services often encompass specialized assessments, medication management, and support for caregivers. It's important to determine if Southeastern Regional Medical Center has a dedicated geriatric unit or offers specialized geriatric services. Inquire about the availability of geriatricians, nurses with geriatric certifications, and programs designed to address the unique needs of older adults.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for providing convenient access to healthcare, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Telehealth can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and caregiver support. Southeastern Regional Medical Center's telehealth capabilities should be assessed, including the availability of virtual appointments with neurologists, geriatricians, or other relevant specialists. Inquire about the hospital's use of remote monitoring technologies, which can help track vital signs and provide early warning signs of potential health issues.

**Caregiver Support and Resources:**

Alzheimer's disease places a significant burden on caregivers. Hospitals should offer resources and support to help caregivers manage the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia. Investigate the availability of caregiver support groups, educational programs, respite care services, and access to social workers or case managers who can provide guidance and connect caregivers with community resources.

**Community Resources:**

Beyond hospital-based services, the availability of community resources is crucial for comprehensive Alzheimer's care. The Alzheimer's Association and the Alzheimer's Foundation of America are valuable resources for information, support, and advocacy. Local chapters often offer support groups, educational programs, and referrals to other services, such as home healthcare agencies and assisted living facilities.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

Accessibility and transportation are critical considerations for individuals with Alzheimer's. Assess the hospital's physical accessibility, including ease of navigation, availability of wheelchair access, and designated parking for individuals with disabilities. Consider the availability of transportation services, such as medical transportation providers or local transportation programs, to ensure that individuals can access appointments and services.

**Medication Management and Pharmacy Services:**

Proper medication management is vital for individuals with Alzheimer's. Inquire about the hospital's medication reconciliation processes, which help ensure that patients are taking the correct medications and dosages. Assess the availability of on-site pharmacy services and the ability to coordinate medication refills and delivery.

**Ethical Considerations and Advance Directives:**

Alzheimer's disease often raises complex ethical considerations, such as end-of-life care and decision-making capacity. Discuss the hospital's policies regarding advance directives, such as living wills and durable power of attorney for healthcare. Ensure that the hospital staff is trained to address ethical concerns and support patients and their families in making informed decisions.

**Hospital Accreditation and Quality Metrics:**

Accreditation by recognized organizations, such as The Joint Commission, indicates that a hospital meets certain quality standards. Check the hospital's accreditation status and review any publicly available quality metrics, such as patient safety scores and readmission rates. These metrics can provide additional insights into the hospital's overall quality of care.

**Financial Considerations and Insurance Coverage:**

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. Inquire about the hospital's billing practices and financial assistance programs. Confirm insurance coverage for neurological services, geriatric services, and other relevant treatments.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating healthcare for Alzheimer's disease near ZIP code 28367 requires a thorough assessment of available resources and services. While this review provides factual information about Southeastern Regional Medical Center and other relevant factors, it is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Individuals and families should consult with their physicians, neurologists, and other healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive care plan that meets their specific needs. Further research into specific hospital departments, available specialists, and community resources is essential to ensure the best possible care for individuals with Alzheimer's.