17739, Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17739, Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare for Memory Care Near Jersey Shore, PA (ZIP Code 17739)

The diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease presents a complex challenge, demanding specialized care and support. For residents of Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17739), accessing quality healthcare for Alzheimer's patients requires careful consideration of available resources. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospitals and healthcare facilities within a reasonable radius, focusing on factors crucial for Alzheimer's care.

**Proximity and Access: The Foundation of Care**

Geographic accessibility is paramount. The immediate vicinity of Jersey Shore is primarily served by smaller community hospitals and clinics. However, the availability of specialized Alzheimer's care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers. This review considers facilities within a 50-mile radius, acknowledging the potential for longer travel times for specialized services.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Measure of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Star Ratings provide a valuable, albeit imperfect, benchmark for hospital quality. These ratings, based on various metrics including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience, offer a starting point for evaluating potential care providers.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital:** Located approximately 20 miles from Jersey Shore, this hospital is a significant regional provider. As of the latest available data, UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital holds a CMS Star Rating. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across a range of quality indicators. The hospital's Geriatric Psychiatry unit and its affiliations with the UPMC system are relevant considerations for Alzheimer's patients.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):** Approximately 50 miles from Jersey Shore, Geisinger Medical Center is a major healthcare system hub. Geisinger is known for its integrated healthcare model and extensive network of specialists. The hospital's CMS Star Rating is a key factor in evaluating its overall quality. Geisinger's focus on geriatric care and its research initiatives in neurological disorders are particularly relevant to Alzheimer's patients.

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

ER wait times are a crucial factor, particularly for individuals with cognitive impairments who may experience increased anxiety and confusion in emergency situations. While specific wait times fluctuate, understanding the typical wait times at nearby hospitals is essential.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital:** Publicly available data often indicates the average ER wait times. These figures should be considered alongside the hospital's overall performance. Patients and caregivers should inquire about current wait times upon arrival.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):** Similar to UPMC, Geisinger's ER wait times are publicly reported. The size and complexity of Geisinger's ER may influence wait times, so it is essential to have realistic expectations.

**Specialty Centers and Geriatric Expertise: Targeted Care**

The availability of specialized centers and geriatric expertise is a significant factor in Alzheimer's care. These facilities offer focused services and a deeper understanding of the disease's complexities.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital:** The hospital's Geriatric Psychiatry unit offers specialized care for older adults with mental health issues, including those related to Alzheimer's. The presence of geriatricians and other specialists trained in caring for older adults is a key advantage.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):** Geisinger boasts a comprehensive network of specialists, including neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists. Their Memory Care Clinic provides diagnostic evaluations, treatment planning, and support services for patients and families affected by Alzheimer's and other dementias. The hospital's research initiatives in neurology further enhance its capabilities.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Telehealth allows for remote consultations, monitoring, and support.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital:** UPMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual visits with specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication management.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):** Geisinger has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual consultations with neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists. They also provide remote monitoring services to track patient progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.

**Support Services and Community Resources: Beyond the Hospital Walls**

Comprehensive Alzheimer's care extends beyond medical treatment. Access to support groups, caregiver resources, and community programs is vital for patients and their families.

**Local Resources:** The Jersey Shore area has local chapters of the Alzheimer's Association and other organizations providing support groups, educational programs, and caregiver training. These resources can be invaluable in navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital:** The hospital often partners with community organizations to provide support services. They may offer educational workshops, caregiver support groups, and referrals to local resources.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):** Geisinger's Memory Care Clinic provides comprehensive support services, including counseling, caregiver education, and referrals to community resources. They often collaborate with local organizations to offer a wide range of support programs.

**Medication Management and Pharmacy Services: Ensuring Continuity of Care**

Effective medication management is a cornerstone of Alzheimer's treatment. Access to reliable pharmacy services and medication adherence programs is essential.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital:** The hospital's pharmacy services provide access to necessary medications. They may offer medication reconciliation programs to ensure patients are taking the correct medications and dosages.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):** Geisinger has a comprehensive pharmacy network, including specialty pharmacies that can handle complex medication regimens. They offer medication adherence programs and provide support for patients and caregivers to manage medications effectively.

**Financial Considerations: Navigating Costs and Insurance**

The cost of Alzheimer's care can be substantial. Understanding insurance coverage, Medicare benefits, and available financial assistance programs is crucial.

**UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital:** The hospital accepts a wide range of insurance plans. Patients and caregivers should verify coverage with their insurance provider. Financial assistance programs may be available for those who qualify.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):** Geisinger also accepts a variety of insurance plans. They offer financial counseling services to help patients understand their coverage and explore financial assistance options.

**Research and Clinical Trials: Opportunities for Advancement**

Participation in clinical trials can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to advancements in Alzheimer's research.

**Geisinger Medical Center (Danville):** Geisinger is actively involved in Alzheimer's research and clinical trials. Patients and caregivers may have the opportunity to participate in these trials, which can provide access to experimental therapies.

**Conclusion: A Multifaceted Approach**

For residents of Jersey Shore (17739) seeking Alzheimer's care, a multifaceted approach is necessary. UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital offers a local option with geriatric expertise. Geisinger Medical Center, located further away, provides a more comprehensive range of specialized services, including a dedicated Memory Care Clinic, extensive telehealth options, and participation in research initiatives.

Caregivers should carefully evaluate each hospital's CMS Star Rating, ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth capabilities, and support resources. Considering the needs of the individual patient, travel time, and access to community support is crucial. By combining these factors, residents of Jersey Shore can make informed decisions about accessing the best possible care for their loved ones with Alzheimer's disease. This review serves as a starting point; further investigation, including direct communication with healthcare providers, is highly recommended.