16932, Mainesburg, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16932, Mainesburg, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Alzheimer's Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 16932**

This review assesses the quality of Alzheimer's care at hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP code 16932, focusing on factors crucial for individuals and families navigating this challenging disease. We will analyze hospital performance based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a clear, fact-based overview to aid in informed decision-making.

**Defining the Scope: Proximity and Accessibility**

Given the rural nature of the 16932 ZIP code (Wellsboro, Pennsylvania), access to specialized medical care can be a significant concern. This review will consider hospitals within a 50-75 mile radius, factoring in travel time and accessibility. This includes hospitals in Pennsylvania and potentially bordering areas of New York State, where residents may seek care.

**Key Metrics: A Focus on Alzheimer's-Specific Needs**

Our "Alzheimer's Score" considers several key factors:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, offer a general indicator of hospital quality based on various metrics, including patient experience and safety.
* **Specialty Centers:** The presence of dedicated memory care centers, geriatric psychiatry units, or neurology departments with expertise in Alzheimer's disease is crucial.
* **Physician Expertise:** The availability of board-certified neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists specializing in Alzheimer's is a critical factor.
* **ER Wait Times:** Long wait times can be particularly difficult for individuals with cognitive impairments and their caregivers.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth services can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups, especially for those in rural areas.
* **Support Services:** Availability of support groups, caregiver resources, and educational programs for patients and families.

**Hospital Analysis: A Deep Dive**

**1. UPMC Williamsport (Williamsport, PA):**

UPMC Williamsport, located approximately 60 miles from Wellsboro, is a significant regional hospital. It is part of the UPMC system, a large healthcare provider. At the time of this review, UPMC Williamsport has a 3-star CMS rating. While this rating indicates average performance, it's important to delve deeper into its Alzheimer's-specific offerings.

UPMC Williamsport has a Neurology Department, which is a positive sign. However, the availability of geriatric specialists and neuropsychologists within the department requires further investigation. Families should directly inquire about the experience of the neurologists in treating Alzheimer's and related dementias.

ER wait times at UPMC Williamsport are generally available on the hospital's website and on sites like waittime.net. These wait times can fluctuate, so it's essential to check the most recent data. Telehealth services are offered by UPMC, and it's crucial to determine the extent of these services for neurology and geriatric care. Families should specifically inquire about telehealth options for Alzheimer's-related consultations and follow-up appointments.

**2. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital (Sayre, PA):**

Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, located approximately 50 miles from Wellsboro, is another major hospital within the review's radius. It is a flagship hospital within the Guthrie system. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital has a 4-star CMS rating, which is a better rating than UPMC Williamsport.

The Guthrie system has a strong reputation for its neurology services. Families should investigate the specific expertise of the neurology department in Alzheimer's care. They should also inquire about the availability of geriatric specialists and neuropsychologists. The hospital should be asked if they have a dedicated memory care unit or a specialized program for Alzheimer's patients.

ER wait times at Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital are also available on the hospital's website. Telehealth services are offered by Guthrie, and families should determine the extent of these services for neurology and geriatric care. Inquire about telehealth options for Alzheimer's-related consultations and follow-up appointments.

**3. Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hospital (Wellsboro, PA):**

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hospital is located within the 16932 ZIP code. It is a critical access hospital, which means it is smaller and serves a more rural population. At the time of this review, its CMS star rating is unavailable.

Families should investigate the hospital's neurology services and determine the availability of geriatric specialists and neuropsychologists. Given the hospital's size, specialized Alzheimer's care may be limited. However, it may provide essential services like initial assessments and referrals to larger hospitals.

ER wait times at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hospital are available on the hospital's website. Telehealth services may be available, and families should determine the extent of these services for neurology and geriatric care. Inquire about telehealth options for Alzheimer's-related consultations and follow-up appointments.

**4. Corning Hospital (Corning, NY):**

Corning Hospital, located approximately 60 miles from Wellsboro, is located in New York State. It is part of the Arnot Health system. At the time of this review, Corning Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

Families should investigate the hospital's neurology services and determine the availability of geriatric specialists and neuropsychologists. The hospital should be asked if they have a dedicated memory care unit or a specialized program for Alzheimer's patients.

ER wait times at Corning Hospital are available on the hospital's website. Telehealth services may be available, and families should determine the extent of these services for neurology and geriatric care. Inquire about telehealth options for Alzheimer's-related consultations and follow-up appointments.

**5. Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Clinics**

Smaller hospitals and clinics in the surrounding areas may provide some level of care. However, they are less likely to have specialized Alzheimer's services. Families should contact their primary care physicians for referrals to specialists.

**Telehealth: A Critical Resource**

Telehealth is a crucial resource, particularly for residents of rural areas. Families should inquire about telehealth options for neurology and geriatric care at each hospital. These services can provide convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups.

**Support Services: Beyond Medical Care**

The availability of support services is essential. Families should inquire about support groups, caregiver resources, and educational programs for patients and families.

**ER Wait Times: An Important Factor**

ER wait times can be a significant concern, particularly for individuals with cognitive impairments. Families should check the most recent data for each hospital.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right hospital for Alzheimer's care requires careful consideration. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 16932. Families should conduct thorough research, including directly contacting the hospitals, asking specific questions about their services, and verifying the expertise of their medical staff. The best choice will depend on individual needs and preferences.