28379, Rockingham, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28379, Rockingham, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 28379

The diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease brings with it a complex web of healthcare needs. Finding the right hospital, with specialized care and resources, is crucial for both the patient and their caregivers. This review analyzes healthcare options near ZIP code 28379, focusing on factors critical for Alzheimer's patients, including hospital quality, access to specialists, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

ZIP code 28379 encompasses the city of Raeford, North Carolina, and surrounding areas. The healthcare landscape in this region is primarily served by a mix of community hospitals and larger regional medical centers. Proximity to larger cities like Fayetteville, NC, provides access to more specialized services. This review will consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, focusing on those offering services relevant to Alzheimer's care.

**Key Considerations for Alzheimer's Patients:**

When evaluating hospitals for Alzheimer's patients, several factors are paramount. These include:

* **Neurology and Geriatric Specialization:** Access to neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists is critical for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
* **Cognitive Assessment and Memory Care:** Hospitals should offer comprehensive cognitive testing and memory care programs.
* **Support Services:** Availability of support groups, caregiver resources, and social work services is essential for patients and families.
* **Emergency Care:** Efficient emergency room services are vital for managing potential crises, such as falls or behavioral changes.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can improve access to specialists and facilitate remote monitoring, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations.
* **Hospital Quality and Safety:** CMS star ratings, infection control measures, and patient satisfaction scores provide insights into overall hospital performance.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Alzheimer's Care:**

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville, NC):** Located approximately 30 minutes from Raeford, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is a major regional healthcare provider. This hospital is a significant player in the region, and offers a range of services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has a 3-star CMS rating, indicating average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. This rating is based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.
* **Neurology and Geriatrics:** Cape Fear Valley has a Neurology department, and geriatric services are available. However, it is crucial to verify the specific expertise of the neurologists and geriatricians in Alzheimer's care.
* **Specialty Centers:** Cape Fear Valley has a memory care clinic, which is a significant advantage for Alzheimer's patients. This clinic offers cognitive assessments, diagnostic services, and treatment planning.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times can fluctuate. It's advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before arriving at the ER. The hospital's ER is equipped to handle acute medical situations, which is important for patients with Alzheimer's who may experience falls or other emergencies.
* **Telehealth:** Cape Fear Valley offers some telehealth services, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations. The availability of telehealth options for neurology and geriatric care should be confirmed.
* **Support Services:** The hospital provides social work services and may offer connections to local support groups.
* **Observations:** While Cape Fear Valley is a major regional hospital, potential patients should inquire about the specific experience of its neurologists and geriatricians in treating Alzheimer's. The memory care clinic is a significant asset.

**Other Hospitals and Considerations:**

**FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital (Pinehurst, NC):** Located approximately an hour from Raeford, FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital is another option.

* **CMS Star Rating:** FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating above-average performance.
* **Neurology and Geriatrics:** FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital has a Neurology department, and geriatric services are available.
* **Specialty Centers:** Check for specific programs or clinics related to memory care or Alzheimer's disease.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times should be considered.
* **Telehealth:** Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for neurology and geriatric care.
* **Support Services:** The hospital should provide social work services and connections to support groups.
* **Observations:** FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital's higher CMS star rating suggests a potentially better overall quality of care.

**Smaller Community Hospitals:**

Smaller community hospitals in the area may offer basic medical services. However, they may not have the specialized expertise or resources required for comprehensive Alzheimer's care. Patients and families should carefully evaluate the capabilities of these hospitals before making a decision.

**Specialty Centers and Clinics:**

Beyond hospitals, consider specialized memory care centers and clinics in the region. These centers often provide a more focused approach to Alzheimer's diagnosis, treatment, and support.

* **Memory Care Clinics:** Research memory care clinics in Fayetteville, Pinehurst, and surrounding areas. These clinics often offer comprehensive cognitive assessments, diagnostic services, and treatment planning.
* **Geriatric Psychiatry:** Look for geriatric psychiatrists who specialize in the behavioral and psychological aspects of Alzheimer's disease.
* **Neuropsychologists:** Neuropsychologists can perform detailed cognitive assessments to evaluate memory and other cognitive functions.

**Telehealth: A Growing Option:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas.

* **Benefits:** Telehealth can provide access to specialists, reduce travel time, and facilitate remote monitoring.
* **Availability:** Inquire about telehealth options with neurologists, geriatricians, and memory care clinics.
* **Technology:** Ensure that the patient has the necessary technology (e.g., a computer, tablet, or smartphone) and internet access for telehealth appointments.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times can be a critical factor, especially for patients with Alzheimer's who may experience sudden changes in their condition.

* **Check Online:** Many hospitals provide real-time ER wait time information on their websites.
* **Call Ahead:** Call the hospital's ER to inquire about current wait times.
* **Consider Alternatives:** If the condition is not life-threatening, consider urgent care centers or your primary care physician's office.

**Caregiver Support and Resources:**

Caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease can be challenging. Access to support services is crucial for caregivers.

* **Support Groups:** Look for local Alzheimer's support groups in the Raeford and Fayetteville areas. These groups provide a forum for caregivers to share experiences and receive emotional support.
* **Caregiver Training:** Consider caregiver training programs that provide education and skills for managing the challenges of Alzheimer's care.
* **Respite Care:** Explore respite care options, which provide temporary relief for caregivers.
* **Social Work Services:** Hospitals and memory care clinics often have social workers who can provide resources and guidance.

**Navigating the Healthcare System:**

Navigating the healthcare system can be complex.

* **Primary Care Physician:** Your primary care physician can be a valuable resource for referrals to specialists and coordinating care.
* **Geriatric Care Managers:** Consider consulting a geriatric care manager who can help you navigate the healthcare system, assess needs, and develop a care plan.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Understand your insurance coverage for Alzheimer's-related services, including diagnostic testing, specialist visits, and medications.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right healthcare provider for an Alzheimer's patient requires careful consideration of several factors. While Cape Fear Valley Medical Center and FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital are the primary options, the best choice will depend on the individual patient's needs and preferences. Patients and families should research the specific expertise of neurologists and geriatricians, explore specialty centers and clinics, and utilize telehealth options when available. Prioritizing access to support services, including caregiver resources, is essential for successful Alzheimer's care. By carefully evaluating the available options and considering the specific needs of the patient, families can make informed decisions that promote the best possible quality of life. Remember to verify all information, as hospital services and wait times can change.