44663, New Philadelphia, Ohio Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 44663, New Philadelphia, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Care in the Vicinity of Salem, Ohio (44663): A Hospital Scorecard

Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease requires a multifaceted approach, including access to quality medical care. This review examines the hospital landscape near Salem, Ohio (ZIP code 44663), focusing on factors crucial for Alzheimer's patients and their families: specialized care, accessibility, and overall hospital performance. This analysis considers data available as of October 26, 2023, and is intended for informational purposes only.

**Proximity and General Hospital Performance**

The primary healthcare hubs serving the Salem area are located within a reasonable driving distance. While no single hospital dominates the immediate vicinity, several facilities offer varying levels of care. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Star Ratings provide a valuable, if imperfect, gauge of overall hospital quality. These ratings, based on patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience, offer a starting point for evaluation.

**A Note on CMS Star Ratings:** It's crucial to remember that CMS ratings are just one data point. They can be influenced by various factors and may not fully reflect the nuances of specialized care like Alzheimer's treatment.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Offerings**

**Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital (Youngstown, OH):** Located approximately 30 miles from Salem, St. Elizabeth Youngstown is a major regional player. As of the latest CMS data, the hospital holds a 3-star rating. This facility offers a broad range of services, including neurology and geriatric care, which are essential for Alzheimer's patients. The hospital's website indicates a focus on stroke care, which can be relevant as stroke risk is often elevated in individuals with dementia.

**Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland, OH):** Roughly 70 miles north of Salem, the Cleveland Clinic is a nationally recognized healthcare system. The main campus consistently receives high ratings and is known for its advanced specialty centers. While the drive is longer, the Cleveland Clinic's reputation for neurological care, including its Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, makes it a significant consideration for families seeking comprehensive Alzheimer's treatment. The Cleveland Clinic generally has a 4- or 5-star rating, demonstrating strong overall performance.

**University Hospitals (Cleveland, OH):** Another major Cleveland-based healthcare system, University Hospitals, is approximately the same distance from Salem as the Cleveland Clinic. Similar to the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals has a strong reputation for neurological care and often boasts high CMS star ratings, typically in the 4- or 5-star range. The system includes specialized institutes and centers that may offer specific programs for Alzheimer's patients.

**Akron General (Akron, OH):** Located approximately 50 miles from Salem, Akron General, part of the Cleveland Clinic Health System, provides a more geographically accessible option. Its CMS star rating is typically in the 3- or 4-star range. While not a primary focus, the hospital offers neurology services and geriatric care, providing a potential option for those seeking care closer to home.

**Specific Considerations for Alzheimer's Patients**

Beyond general hospital ratings, several factors are particularly important for Alzheimer's patients and their families.

**Neurology and Geriatric Expertise:** The availability of board-certified neurologists and geriatricians is crucial. These specialists possess the expertise to diagnose, manage, and treat the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. Families should inquire about the specific experience and training of physicians within each hospital's neurology and geriatric departments.

**Specialized Memory Care Units:** Some hospitals offer dedicated memory care units designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for patients with cognitive impairments. These units often feature specialized staff, therapeutic activities, and environmental modifications to minimize confusion and agitation. Inquire about the availability of such units and their specific features.

**Access to Clinical Trials:** Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities. Families should inquire about the hospital's involvement in Alzheimer's research and whether they have any ongoing clinical trials.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth services can be invaluable for Alzheimer's patients, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists. Check the hospital's telehealth offerings, including the availability of virtual appointments with neurologists, geriatricians, and other relevant healthcare providers.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** While not directly related to Alzheimer's care, ER wait times are a practical consideration. Long wait times can be stressful for patients and caregivers. Families should check the average ER wait times for each hospital, which are often available on hospital websites or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website.

**Accessibility and Support Services**

**Transportation:** Consider the ease of access to each hospital, including the availability of parking, public transportation, and transportation services for patients with mobility limitations.

**Caregiver Support:** Alzheimer's disease places a significant burden on caregivers. Look for hospitals that offer support services for caregivers, such as support groups, educational programs, and respite care options.

**Financial Assistance:** Inquire about the hospital's policies regarding financial assistance and payment plans, as the cost of Alzheimer's care can be substantial.

**Hospital-Specific Considerations**

**St. Elizabeth Youngstown:** While St. Elizabeth Youngstown offers a more convenient location, its 3-star rating suggests areas for potential improvement. Families should specifically investigate the hospital's neurology and geriatric departments, inquiring about the number of specialists, their experience, and any specialized programs for Alzheimer's patients.

**Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals:** The Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals offer a higher level of specialized care, but the longer travel time is a significant consideration. Families should weigh the benefits of accessing these centers' expertise against the challenges of distance and transportation. Explore the specific programs and services offered by their neurological institutes and memory centers.

**Akron General:** Akron General provides a middle ground, offering a more accessible option with a potentially lower level of specialized care compared to the Cleveland-based hospitals. Families should assess the hospital's neurology and geriatric services and determine if they meet their specific needs.

**Telehealth Stats:** While specific telehealth statistics are often proprietary, it is important to inquire about the availability of telehealth services for neurology and geriatric appointments. The Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals, being larger systems, are more likely to have robust telehealth programs.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can fluctuate. Check the most recent data available from each hospital. The CMS Hospital Compare website is a good starting point, but it is also advisable to check individual hospital websites.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for Alzheimer's care requires careful consideration of various factors. While proximity is a key consideration, families should also prioritize the availability of specialized expertise, access to support services, and the overall quality of care. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near Salem, Ohio (44663). However, families should conduct their own research, including contacting hospitals directly to inquire about specific programs, services, and physician qualifications. The best choice will depend on the individual needs of the patient and the preferences of the family.