45723, Coolville, Ohio Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 45723, Coolville, Ohio is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Care in the Heart of Appalachia: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 45723

Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease requires access to specialized care, and for residents near ZIP code 45723 (Athens, Ohio, and surrounding areas), the availability and quality of that care are paramount. This review examines the hospitals closest to this area, focusing on their Alzheimer's-related services, quality metrics, and accessibility to provide a comprehensive overview for patients and their families.

**OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital (Athens, OH): A Local Hub**

OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital, located directly within ZIP code 45723, serves as the primary healthcare provider for Athens County. While it doesn't have a dedicated, standalone Alzheimer's center, it offers essential services for managing the disease. The hospital's neurology department provides diagnostic evaluations, including cognitive assessments and imaging services (CT scans and MRIs) crucial for diagnosing Alzheimer's and other dementias. They also offer medication management and coordination of care with primary care physicians.

O'Bleness Hospital has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not specifically tied to Alzheimer's care, this rating provides a general indicator of the hospital's commitment to quality.

Emergency room wait times at O'Bleness Hospital are a critical factor for patients experiencing acute symptoms. While specific real-time data fluctuates, the hospital generally reports wait times comparable to other regional facilities. It's advisable to check current wait times on the hospital's website or through online platforms before seeking emergency care.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. O'Bleness Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings, including neurology consultations. This can be a valuable resource for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and providing support to caregivers.

**Holzer Medical Center – Jackson (Jackson, OH): Regional Reach**

Located approximately 40 minutes from Athens, Holzer Medical Center – Jackson offers a broader range of services, including a more robust neurology department. They provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, including neuropsychological testing, which can be vital in differentiating between Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

Holzer Medical Center – Jackson does not have a CMS star rating available. This is due to the methodology of the rating system.

ER wait times at Holzer Medical Center – Jackson are generally similar to those at O'Bleness Hospital, but can vary depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Checking current wait times before arriving is recommended.

Telehealth services are available at Holzer Medical Center – Jackson, including neurology consultations. This can be especially useful for patients who live a distance from the hospital or who have difficulty traveling.

**Adena Regional Medical Center (Chillicothe, OH): A Larger Facility**

Adena Regional Medical Center, located in Chillicothe (approximately an hour's drive from Athens), represents a larger healthcare system with a more extensive network of specialists. Their neurology department offers comprehensive services, including advanced imaging and access to clinical trials.

Adena Regional Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS.

ER wait times at Adena Regional Medical Center tend to be longer than at the smaller facilities, reflecting the higher patient volume. It is important to check the current wait times before seeking emergency care.

Adena Regional Medical Center has a robust telehealth program, including neurology consultations and support groups. This can be a valuable resource for patients and caregivers.

**Specialty Considerations: Beyond the General Hospital**

While the general hospitals provide essential services, the availability of specialized centers and programs is crucial for comprehensive Alzheimer's care. Unfortunately, the immediate vicinity of ZIP code 45723 lacks dedicated Alzheimer's centers. This necessitates patients and families to consider regional options.

**Caregiver Support and Resources:**

The availability of caregiver support is a critical aspect of Alzheimer's care. All three hospitals offer resources for caregivers, including educational materials, support groups, and referrals to community-based services. The Alzheimer's Association (www.alz.org) is an invaluable resource for information, support, and local chapter events.

**Access to Medications and Treatment:**

The hospitals in this region have access to the latest medications and treatments for Alzheimer's disease. Patients will work with their neurologists and primary care physicians to determine the best course of treatment.

**Factors Influencing Hospital Choice:**

Several factors should influence the choice of hospital for Alzheimer's care:

* **Proximity:** The closer the hospital, the easier it is to access care.
* **Specialist Availability:** The presence of a neurologist specializing in dementia is crucial.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** Access to advanced imaging and neuropsychological testing is essential.
* **Telehealth Options:** Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas.
* **Caregiver Support:** Access to support groups and resources is critical.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not specific to Alzheimer's care, CMS star ratings provide a general indication of hospital quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Long wait times can be problematic for patients with acute symptoms.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 45723 presents a mix of strengths and challenges for Alzheimer's patients and their families. OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital provides a local hub for essential services, while Holzer Medical Center – Jackson and Adena Regional Medical Center offer more specialized care and broader networks. The absence of dedicated Alzheimer's centers necessitates careful consideration of regional options and proactive engagement with specialists.

The availability of telehealth services and caregiver support programs are essential resources. Families should research the specific services offered by each hospital, consider their individual needs, and consult with their physicians to determine the most appropriate course of action.

The information provided in this review is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.