28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28540, Jacksonville, North Carolina is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28540)

Alzheimer's disease presents a formidable challenge, demanding specialized care and support. For residents near Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28540), accessing quality healthcare is paramount. This review assesses the available options, focusing on key indicators relevant to Alzheimer's patients and their families, including hospital quality, specialized services, and accessibility.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The healthcare landscape near Jacksonville, NC, is largely shaped by its proximity to military installations, particularly Camp Lejeune. This influences the demographics and the types of medical services available. While the area offers a range of healthcare providers, the focus will be on hospitals and their capabilities in managing Alzheimer's disease.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

A crucial metric for evaluating hospital quality is the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Star Rating. This system provides a publicly available, easily digestible assessment of hospital performance based on various quality measures.

**Navigating the Options:**

The primary hospital serving the Jacksonville area is **Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune (NHCL)**. While NHCL primarily caters to active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families, its impact on the local healthcare ecosystem is significant. As a military facility, its CMS star rating is not directly available in the same format as civilian hospitals. However, NHCL offers specialized services and access to a broad network of medical professionals. The hospital's focus on comprehensive care, including geriatric services, makes it a valuable resource for Alzheimer's patients. Accessing care at NHCL depends on eligibility and referral pathways.

**Beyond NHCL: Exploring Civilian Options:**

For those not affiliated with the military, or seeking additional options, civilian hospitals become crucial. The closest major civilian hospital is **Vidant Duplin Hospital** in Kenansville, NC, approximately 40 miles west of Jacksonville. While it may not be the closest, its proximity is worth considering. Vidant Duplin Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating indicates a hospital that performs at or near the national average across several key areas, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

**Specialty Centers and Alzheimer's Care:**

The presence of specialized centers dedicated to Alzheimer's care is vital. These centers typically offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, medication management, therapy, and support groups for patients and their families.

**Vidant Duplin Hospital** does not have a dedicated Alzheimer's specialty center. However, the hospital's internal medicine and geriatric departments are likely to offer some level of care for Alzheimer's patients.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

Emergency room (ER) wait times can be a significant concern, especially for patients with cognitive impairments. Long wait times can exacerbate anxiety and confusion.

ER wait times fluctuate, but generally, the average wait time at **Vidant Duplin Hospital** is around 30-60 minutes. However, wait times can vary depending on the time of day, the severity of the patient's condition, and the overall patient volume in the ER.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Telehealth can provide access to specialists, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups.

**Vidant Duplin Hospital** offers telehealth services. The hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities in recent years, offering virtual consultations with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and virtual support groups. This can be particularly beneficial for Alzheimer's patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments.

**Other Considerations:**

* **Geriatric Specialists:** The availability of geriatricians and neurologists specializing in Alzheimer's is critical. These specialists have the expertise to diagnose, manage, and treat the disease. Patients and families should inquire about the availability of these specialists at each hospital.
* **Support Services:** Access to support groups, caregiver resources, and social workers is essential for families coping with Alzheimer's. Hospitals should offer or connect patients to these vital services.
* **Palliative Care:** Palliative care services can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced Alzheimer's. Inquire about the availability of palliative care at each hospital.

**Detailed Analysis of Vidant Duplin Hospital:**

Vidant Duplin Hospital, while not the closest, is a significant option. Its 3-star CMS rating indicates a reasonable level of quality. The hospital's geriatric services are a key resource for Alzheimer's patients. The availability of telehealth services is a major advantage, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**Accessibility and Transportation:**

Transportation can be a significant barrier for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. Public transportation options in the Jacksonville area may be limited. Families should consider the availability of transportation services, such as medical transport or volunteer driver programs.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Assessment**

For residents near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP code 28540), the healthcare landscape presents a mixed bag. While NHCL is a major resource for military-affiliated individuals, civilian options like Vidant Duplin Hospital offer accessible care. Vidant Duplin Hospital, with its 3-star CMS rating, geriatric services, and telehealth capabilities, provides a reasonable level of care for Alzheimer's patients. However, the absence of a dedicated Alzheimer's specialty center and the need for travel to reach it should be considered. Families should thoroughly research the available options, considering the specific needs of the patient and the availability of support services. Thorough research, careful consideration of individual needs, and proactive engagement with healthcare providers are essential for navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care.