14519, Ontario, New York Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 14519, Ontario, New York is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Care in the Finger Lakes: A Review of Hospitals Near 14519

This review assesses the quality of Alzheimer's and dementia care at hospitals in the vicinity of ZIP code 14519 (Canandaigua, NY), focusing on factors crucial for patients and their families: access to specialized care, hospital quality metrics, and the availability of supportive services. The information is drawn from publicly available data, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable sources.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

Navigating the healthcare system for Alzheimer's can be daunting. Patients and caregivers need access to accurate diagnoses, effective treatments, and ongoing support. This review considers factors like hospital quality ratings, wait times, specialized centers, and the availability of telehealth options, all of which can significantly impact the patient experience.

**Strong Contenders: Flagship Hospitals and Their Strengths**

The closest major hospital to 14519 is **Thompson Health**, located in Canandaigua. Thompson Health is a community hospital that is part of UR Medicine. While it does not have a dedicated Alzheimer's center, it does offer geriatric services, including assessment and management of cognitive impairment. Thompson Health is a 4-star hospital according to CMS. This rating reflects its performance across several key areas, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. ER wait times are generally moderate, and the hospital is actively involved in community outreach programs related to senior health.

**UR Medicine Strong Memorial Hospital** in Rochester, NY, is the flagship hospital of the University of Rochester Medical Center. Strong Memorial is a tertiary care center and is known for its comprehensive approach to neurological care. The hospital houses the **Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience**, which includes a dedicated **Memory Care Program**. This program offers diagnostic evaluations, treatment planning, and access to clinical trials. Strong Memorial is a 4-star hospital according to CMS. The hospital is a regional leader in neurology and geriatrics, and its specialists are often sought out for complex cases. ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the cases being treated. Strong Memorial Hospital has a robust telehealth program, including remote consultations for neurology and geriatric patients.

**Other Hospitals in the Region:**

**Rochester General Hospital**, part of Rochester Regional Health, is another option within a reasonable driving distance. Rochester General does not have a dedicated Alzheimer's center, but it does offer geriatric services and access to specialists. CMS gives Rochester General a 3-star rating. ER wait times can fluctuate, but are generally manageable.

**Care Considerations: Beyond the Hospital Walls**

The quality of Alzheimer's care extends beyond the hospital setting. Access to specialists, support groups, and community resources is vital.

**Specialized Centers and Programs:**

The **Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience** at Strong Memorial Hospital stands out for its comprehensive approach to memory disorders. The institute's Memory Care Program provides multidisciplinary care, including neurologists, geriatricians, neuropsychologists, and social workers. This team-based approach ensures a holistic assessment and personalized treatment plan.

**Geriatric Services:**

All the hospitals mentioned offer geriatric services, which are crucial for managing the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients. These services often include medication management, fall prevention programs, and support for caregivers.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in Alzheimer's care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility issues. Strong Memorial Hospital has a well-established telehealth program, offering remote consultations with neurologists and geriatricians. This can be a valuable option for follow-up appointments, medication management, and caregiver support. Thompson Health has also been expanding its telehealth capabilities, and the trend will likely continue.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times can be a significant concern for patients with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased confusion and anxiety in a busy emergency room setting. Data on ER wait times is publicly available, but it can vary depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the severity of the cases being treated. Checking the hospital's website or calling ahead can provide a general idea of current wait times.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Quick Guide to Quality**

The CMS star ratings provide a snapshot of hospital quality, based on a range of factors. While not the only measure of quality, the ratings can be a helpful starting point for comparing hospitals. Strong Memorial Hospital and Thompson Health, with their 4-star ratings, demonstrate a commitment to quality and patient safety.

**Caregiver Support: A Crucial Component**

Alzheimer's care is a team effort, and caregivers play a vital role. Hospitals often provide resources for caregivers, including support groups, educational programs, and respite care services. Strong Memorial Hospital, with its Memory Care Program, offers extensive support for caregivers, including educational workshops and individual counseling.

**Access to Specialists: Navigating the Referral Process**

Accessing specialized care often requires a referral from a primary care physician. Patients and caregivers should discuss their concerns with their primary care doctor, who can then refer them to a neurologist, geriatrician, or other specialist.

**Community Resources: Beyond the Hospital**

The Alzheimer's Association and other community organizations provide valuable resources for patients and caregivers, including support groups, educational materials, and advocacy services. These organizations can help navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care and connect families with the support they need.

**Conclusion: Choosing the Right Care**

Choosing the right hospital for Alzheimer's care involves considering several factors, including access to specialized centers, hospital quality ratings, and the availability of supportive services. Strong Memorial Hospital, with its Memory Care Program and strong CMS rating, is a regional leader in Alzheimer's care. Thompson Health, with its geriatric services and community focus, provides valuable care closer to home. Patients and caregivers should also consider the availability of telehealth options, ER wait times, and the availability of community resources. By carefully evaluating these factors, families can make informed decisions about the best care options for their loved ones.