28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Care in the Shadow of the Crystal Coast: A Review of Hospitals Near 28586

The picturesque coastal community surrounding ZIP code 28586, encompassing areas like Swansboro, North Carolina, and its neighboring towns, offers a tranquil setting for residents. However, as the population ages, the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias becomes a significant concern. This review examines the healthcare landscape near 28586, focusing on the availability and quality of Alzheimer's care, considering factors like hospital ratings, specialty centers, emergency room wait times, and telehealth options.

The primary healthcare providers serving this area are located in Jacksonville, NC, a short drive from 28586. The most prominent is **Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL)**, a facility serving active-duty military personnel, their families, and retirees. NMCCL is a federal facility and does not receive CMS star ratings. However, it offers comprehensive medical services, including neurology and geriatric care, which are crucial for Alzheimer's diagnosis and management. While specific data on Alzheimer's care within NMCCL is not publicly available, the hospital's commitment to serving the military population suggests a focus on providing necessary services for this demographic.

Moving beyond NMCCL, the closest civilian hospital is **Onslow Memorial Hospital (OMH)**, also located in Jacksonville. OMH is a critical access hospital, a designation that reflects its importance in providing essential healthcare services to a rural population. OMH has a **3-star rating from CMS** (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services). This rating reflects overall quality of care, including patient experience, safety, and efficiency. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it's essential to delve deeper to understand OMH's specific strengths and weaknesses in Alzheimer's care.

OMH's neurology department is the primary point of contact for Alzheimer's patients. The hospital offers diagnostic services, including cognitive assessments and imaging (CT scans and MRIs), crucial for detecting the disease. They also provide medication management and support services for patients and their families. However, detailed statistics on the number of neurologists specializing in Alzheimer's, the number of patients seen, or specific programs offered are not readily available.

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for any healthcare facility. OMH's ER wait times can fluctuate, but they are generally within the national average. Patients needing immediate care for complications related to Alzheimer's, such as infections or falls, can access the ER. However, it's important to note that long wait times can be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments and their caregivers.

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly for rural communities. OMH offers telehealth options, but the extent of these services for Alzheimer's patients is unclear. Telehealth can be valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to caregivers. The availability of telehealth services can improve access to care for patients who have difficulty traveling to the hospital.

Beyond OMH, residents near 28586 may seek specialized care at facilities further afield. **Vidant Medical Center** in Greenville, NC, approximately an hour's drive, is a larger hospital with more specialized services. Vidant is a **4-star rated hospital by CMS**. This higher rating suggests a greater commitment to quality care. Vidant Medical Center has a dedicated neurology department with specialists who may be more experienced in diagnosing and treating Alzheimer's. Vidant's Alzheimer's care programs are more developed, including memory care clinics and support groups. The hospital also offers advanced diagnostic tools and access to clinical trials.

Vidant Medical Center's ER wait times are generally longer than those at OMH, given the higher patient volume. However, the specialized care available at Vidant may be worth the wait for patients with complex needs. Vidant also has a more robust telehealth program, potentially offering more options for Alzheimer's patients.

Another option for residents near 28586 is **UNC Health Southeastern** in Lumberton, NC, about a two-hour drive. This hospital is a **3-star rated hospital by CMS**. While further away, it offers a range of medical services, including neurology. UNC Health Southeastern may provide additional options for specialized care, depending on the patient's needs. However, the travel distance can be a significant barrier for patients and their families.

The availability of specialty centers dedicated to Alzheimer's care is limited in the immediate vicinity of 28586. While OMH and Vidant offer neurology departments, dedicated memory care centers are not as prevalent. This means that patients may need to travel to larger cities like Raleigh or Durham for specialized programs.

The quality of care for Alzheimer's patients also depends on the availability of support services. These include home health care agencies, assisted living facilities, and support groups. The area surrounding 28586 has a moderate supply of these services. However, the quality and availability of these resources can vary significantly. Families should carefully research and vet these options to ensure they meet the specific needs of their loved ones.

The financial aspect of Alzheimer's care is also a crucial consideration. The cost of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care can be substantial. Medicare and Medicaid provide some financial assistance, but out-of-pocket expenses can still be significant. Families should explore all available financial resources, including insurance coverage, veterans' benefits, and community programs.

The role of caregivers is paramount in Alzheimer's care. Caregivers often face significant emotional and physical challenges. Support groups and respite care services are essential for helping caregivers cope with the demands of their role. The area near 28586 has a limited number of support groups and respite care options. Families should actively seek out these resources and connect with other caregivers for support.

Looking ahead, the healthcare landscape near 28586 is likely to evolve. The aging population and the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer's will drive the need for more specialized care and support services. Hospitals and healthcare providers will need to adapt to meet these growing demands. This includes expanding neurology departments, developing memory care clinics, and increasing the availability of telehealth services.

**In summary**, the healthcare options for Alzheimer's patients near 28586 are adequate but could be improved. OMH offers essential services, but patients may need to travel to Vidant Medical Center or other facilities for more specialized care. The availability of support services and the limited number of dedicated memory care centers are areas where improvements are needed. Families should carefully research their options, consider the CMS star ratings, and explore the availability of specialty services, ER wait times, and telehealth options to make informed decisions about the best care for their loved ones. The future of Alzheimer's care in this coastal community will depend on the ability of healthcare providers to adapt to the growing needs of an aging population.