28538, Hookerton, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28538, Hookerton, North Carolina is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28538)

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant healthcare challenge, demanding specialized care and support. For residents near Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28538), accessing quality medical services is crucial. This review assesses the healthcare landscape, focusing on hospitals and resources relevant to Alzheimer's patients and their families. We'll examine hospital performance, specialty centers, and access to care, including telehealth options, to provide a comprehensive understanding of available support.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Hospitals and Performance Metrics**

The primary hospital serving the Jacksonville area is **Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL)**. While NMCCL is a vital resource for military personnel and their families, its services are primarily focused on active-duty members, retirees, and their dependents. Access for the general public within the 28538 ZIP code is limited.

Therefore, residents often seek care at hospitals further afield. **New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC)** in Wilmington, NC, approximately 60 miles south, emerges as a significant option. NHRMC is a large, regional referral center offering a broad range of services. It is a part of Novant Health.

**CMS Star Ratings and Quality Indicators**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system to evaluate hospital performance. These ratings, based on a variety of quality measures, offer a snapshot of overall hospital quality. As of the latest available data, NHRMC has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects its performance across various categories, including patient experience, safety of care, and readmission rates.

It is important to note that CMS ratings are dynamic and can change. Families should consult the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most up-to-date information.

**Emergency Room Wait Times and Access to Care**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, particularly in urgent medical situations. While specific wait times fluctuate, NHRMC generally reports wait times that are in line with, or slightly above, the national average. It's important to recognize that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients.

**Specialty Centers and Alzheimer's Care**

Finding specialized care for Alzheimer's disease requires identifying hospitals with dedicated neurology departments and memory care programs. NHRMC has a neurology department that addresses neurological conditions, which includes a memory care clinic. This clinic offers diagnostic evaluations, treatment planning, and support services for individuals with memory disorders and their families.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for managing chronic conditions like Alzheimer's. NHRMC offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty traveling or for those who live in more rural areas. Telehealth can facilitate medication management, provide ongoing support, and connect patients with specialists without the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Other Hospitals and Options**

Another hospital to consider is **Onslow Memorial Hospital** in Jacksonville, NC. Onslow Memorial is a smaller, community-based hospital that provides a range of services. While it may not have the same breadth of specialty services as NHRMC, it offers a local option for general medical care.

**Support Services and Community Resources**

Beyond hospitals, accessing community resources is crucial for Alzheimer's patients and their families. The **Alzheimer's Association** is a valuable resource, providing information, support groups, and educational programs. The Alzheimer's Association has a local chapter that serves the Jacksonville area.

Additionally, the **Onslow County Department of Aging** offers services for seniors, including assistance with transportation, home-delivered meals, and other support programs. These resources can help families navigate the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's.

**Assessing the Healthcare Ecosystem**

The healthcare ecosystem near Jacksonville, NC, offers a mix of resources. While NMCCL is the primary healthcare provider for military personnel, NHRMC in Wilmington is a key referral center for the broader community. Onslow Memorial Hospital offers a local option.

**Considerations for Alzheimer's Patients and Families**

When choosing healthcare options for Alzheimer's patients, several factors should be considered:

* **Specialized Expertise:** Look for hospitals with dedicated neurology departments and memory care clinics.
* **Access to Specialists:** Ensure access to neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists experienced in Alzheimer's care.
* **Support Services:** Identify hospitals and community organizations that offer support groups, caregiver training, and respite care.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Consider hospitals that offer telehealth services for convenient access to care and monitoring.
* **Proximity and Transportation:** Evaluate the distance to hospitals and the availability of transportation options, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling.
* **Patient Experience:** Read patient reviews and consider the hospital's reputation for patient-centered care.

**Specific Recommendations**

For residents of the 28538 ZIP code, the following recommendations are offered:

* **Prioritize NHRMC:** Given its size, specialty services, and memory care clinic, NHRMC is the primary choice for specialized Alzheimer's care.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options offered by NHRMC and other providers to facilitate remote consultations and monitoring.
* **Engage with the Alzheimer's Association:** Contact the local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association for information, support groups, and educational programs.
* **Connect with the Onslow County Department of Aging:** Access the resources offered by the Department of Aging for assistance with transportation, home care, and other support services.
* **Consider Onslow Memorial Hospital:** For general medical care and local access, Onslow Memorial Hospital provides a convenient option.

**Conclusion: A Path Forward**

Navigating the healthcare landscape for Alzheimer's disease requires careful planning and research. While the Jacksonville area has some limitations in specialized Alzheimer's care, NHRMC in Wilmington provides a comprehensive option. Combining hospital care with community resources, telehealth options, and support services will help families effectively manage the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. By proactively seeking information, connecting with support networks, and advocating for their loved ones, families can build a robust healthcare plan that promotes quality of life and well-being.