17219, Doylesburg, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17219, Doylesburg, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Care in the Heart of Pennsylvania: A Hospital Scorecard Near ZIP Code 17219

Finding quality Alzheimer's care is a critical concern, and proximity to excellent medical facilities is often a key factor. This review examines the hospitals closest to ZIP code 17219 (Chambersburg, Pennsylvania) to assess their capabilities in diagnosing, treating, and supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. We'll delve into hospital ratings, specialty centers, ER wait times, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive overview.

**The Landscape: Central Pennsylvania Healthcare**

The region surrounding Chambersburg is served by a mix of community hospitals and larger, regional medical centers. While no single hospital in the immediate vicinity is exclusively dedicated to Alzheimer's care, the quality of neurology departments, geriatric services, and overall hospital performance are crucial indicators of the care available.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital: A Community Anchor**

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, the most immediate healthcare provider, serves as a primary access point for residents of 17219. It’s a 200+ bed facility, and its performance is a key indicator of local healthcare quality. As of late 2023, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, encompassing factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While not a direct measure of Alzheimer's care, it provides a general sense of the hospital's commitment to quality.

The hospital's neurology department is the primary point of contact for neurological concerns, including potential Alzheimer's diagnoses. While specific data on the number of neurologists specializing in Alzheimer's or dementia is not readily available, the hospital offers comprehensive diagnostic services, including imaging (MRI, CT scans) crucial for assessing brain health. The hospital also provides geriatric services, which can be particularly helpful for patients and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's.

Emergency room wait times at WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital are a crucial factor in accessing timely care. The latest data indicates an average ER wait time of around 25-45 minutes. This is a critical consideration, especially for patients experiencing sudden changes in cognitive function or other emergencies.

WellSpan Health, the parent organization, has been investing in telehealth services. While specific data on telehealth offerings for Alzheimer's patients at Chambersburg Hospital is limited, WellSpan Health provides a broad range of virtual care options, including consultations with specialists and remote monitoring.

**Other Nearby Options: Expanding the Scope**

While WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital is the closest option, residents also have access to hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. These facilities offer specialized services and may be considered for more complex cases.

**UPMC Carlisle:**

Located approximately 30 miles east of Chambersburg, UPMC Carlisle is another option. UPMC Carlisle is a 165-bed hospital. It has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital's neurology department provides diagnostic and treatment services for neurological conditions, including dementia. The hospital also has a geriatric medicine program.

**UPMC Harrisburg:**

UPMC Harrisburg, located approximately 60 miles east, is a larger facility with a broader range of specialized services. UPMC Harrisburg is a 500+ bed facility. It has a 3-star CMS rating. It has a dedicated neurology department and access to a wider range of specialists. This could be beneficial for complex cases or when seeking second opinions.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:**

Approximately 70 miles east of Chambersburg, the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major academic medical center. This hospital is a 600+ bed facility. It has a 4-star CMS rating. Hershey Medical Center is a major referral center with a highly specialized neurology department and a dedicated memory care center. This center provides comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, treatment, and support services for individuals with Alzheimer's and other dementias. This hospital is a flagship hospital in the region and may be the best choice for complex cases.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Tailoring Care**

The presence of specialty centers and programs is a significant indicator of a hospital's commitment to Alzheimer's care. While none of the hospitals immediately near 17219 have dedicated Alzheimer's centers, the presence of geriatric programs and memory clinics is a positive sign. Hershey Medical Center's memory care center is a significant advantage. These programs often provide comprehensive services, including:

* **Diagnostic evaluations:** Cognitive assessments, neurological exams, and imaging.
* **Treatment plans:** Medication management, behavioral therapies, and lifestyle recommendations.
* **Support services:** Counseling, support groups, and caregiver education.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: Time is of the Essence**

Emergency room wait times are crucial, especially for patients experiencing sudden changes in cognitive function or other medical emergencies. The average ER wait times vary between hospitals, and it's essential to consider these factors when choosing a healthcare provider. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital's ER wait times are generally in the range of 25-45 minutes.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in Alzheimer's care, offering convenience and access to specialists, especially for patients in rural areas. WellSpan Health and UPMC have expanded telehealth offerings. Telehealth can be used for:

* **Initial consultations:** Remote assessments and diagnosis.
* **Medication management:** Monitoring and adjustments.
* **Support groups:** Virtual meetings for patients and caregivers.
* **Caregiver education:** Online resources and training programs.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Indicator**

The CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality, but they are not a direct measure of Alzheimer's care. However, hospitals with higher ratings often have better overall quality of care, including improved patient safety and satisfaction.

**The Caregiver's Perspective: Support Systems**

Alzheimer's care extends beyond medical treatment. The availability of support services for caregivers is crucial. These services include:

* **Support groups:** Connecting caregivers with others facing similar challenges.
* **Respite care:** Providing temporary relief for caregivers.
* **Educational resources:** Providing information and training on Alzheimer's care.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

For residents of ZIP code 17219, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital is the primary local healthcare provider. While it doesn't have a dedicated Alzheimer's center, it offers essential neurological and geriatric services. For more specialized care, Hershey Medical Center is the best option. When choosing a hospital, consider factors such as:

* **Neurology department expertise:** The experience and specialization of neurologists.
* **Geriatric services:** Availability of geriatricians and geriatric programs.
* **Diagnostic capabilities:** Access to advanced imaging and cognitive assessments.
* **Telehealth options:** The availability of virtual consultations and support services.
* **Support for caregivers:** The availability of support groups, respite care, and educational resources.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** A general indicator of overall hospital quality.
* **ER wait times:** Access to timely care in emergencies.

By carefully evaluating these factors, residents of the Chambersburg area can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure access to the best possible Alzheimer's care for themselves and their loved ones.