Alzheimers Score

17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

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Health Scores

Hospital Score in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

Health Scores in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania

Alzheimers Score 97
People Score 99
Provider Score 80
Hospital Score 56
Travel Score 55

Hospital Score Review of 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in the 17943 Area

This review provides a fact-rich assessment of healthcare options for individuals and families in the vicinity of ZIP code 17943, focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. We'll examine hospital quality, access to specialized care, and the availability of telehealth services, all critical considerations for managing this complex condition.

**Understanding the Landscape: ZIP Code 17943**

ZIP code 17943 encompasses the town of Frackville, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas in Schuylkill County. This region is largely rural, which can impact access to specialized medical services and transportation options. When considering healthcare, proximity to major hospitals and the availability of comprehensive geriatric and neurological care are paramount.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a general indicator of quality. These ratings are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital (Orwigsburg, PA):** Located approximately 10 miles from Frackville, Geisinger St. Luke's is a significant healthcare provider for the region. As of the most recent data, it has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating reflects a mixed performance across different quality metrics. The hospital offers a range of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. It is important to consult with the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information on their Alzheimer's and dementia care programs.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill (Pottsville, PA):** Situated roughly 15 miles from Frackville, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill is another key hospital serving the area. This hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating indicates areas for improvement in some key metrics. The hospital offers a variety of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized clinics. Patients and their families should inquire about the hospital's specific programs for dementia care and support.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's who may experience sudden health changes or require immediate medical attention. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, so it's vital to consult current information sources.

**Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital:** While specific ER wait times vary, it's advisable to check real-time wait time trackers available online. These tools, often provided by hospitals or third-party websites, offer an estimated wait time based on current patient volume.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill:** Similar to Geisinger St. Luke's, accessing current ER wait time information through online resources is recommended. Factors like the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of cases can influence wait times.

**Specialty Centers and Geriatric Care**

The availability of specialized care is crucial for Alzheimer's patients. This includes access to neurologists, geriatricians, and specialized memory care clinics.

**Geisinger Health System:** Geisinger operates a large health system with a network of specialists. Patients in the 17943 area can potentially access neurologists, geriatricians, and memory care specialists through Geisinger. It is essential to inquire about the availability of these specialists and the specific programs offered for Alzheimer's patients.

**Lehigh Valley Health Network:** Lehigh Valley Health Network also has a network of specialists. Patients can potentially access neurologists, geriatricians, and memory care specialists through Lehigh Valley Health Network. It is essential to inquire about the availability of these specialists and the specific programs offered for Alzheimer's patients.

**Memory Care Clinics:** Both health systems may have memory care clinics or centers. These specialized facilities often provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, care planning, and support services for patients and their families. Contacting the hospitals directly is the best way to obtain information about these specialized centers.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Telehealth services can provide access to consultations, therapy, and support groups from the comfort of home.

**Geisinger Health System:** Geisinger has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual appointments with various specialists. Patients in the 17943 area can potentially access telehealth services for neurology, geriatrics, and other relevant specialties. Inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments with memory care specialists.

**Lehigh Valley Health Network:** Lehigh Valley Health Network also provides telehealth services, including virtual consultations. Patients in the 17943 area can potentially access telehealth services for neurology, geriatrics, and other relevant specialties. Inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments with memory care specialists.

**Support Groups and Community Resources**

Beyond medical care, access to support groups and community resources is essential for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. These resources provide emotional support, education, and practical assistance.

**The Alzheimer's Association:** The Alzheimer's Association is a national organization with local chapters that offer support groups, educational programs, and resources for families affected by Alzheimer's. Contacting the Alzheimer's Association for information on local support groups and programs is recommended.

**Area Agencies on Aging:** Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) provide a range of services for older adults, including information and referral services, caregiver support, and assistance with accessing community resources. The AAA serving Schuylkill County can be a valuable source of information.

**Additional Considerations**

**Transportation:** Transportation can be a significant barrier for individuals with Alzheimer's. Consider the availability of transportation services, such as medical transportation, ride-sharing programs, or family support, to ensure access to medical appointments and other essential services.

**Caregiver Support:** Alzheimer's care places a significant burden on caregivers. Explore the availability of respite care services, in-home care assistance, and other resources to support caregivers.

**Financial Assistance:** The cost of Alzheimer's care can be substantial. Investigate the availability of financial assistance programs, such as Medicaid, Medicare, and other government or charitable programs, to help cover the costs of care.

**Medication Management:** Proper medication management is crucial for Alzheimer's patients. Ensure that the healthcare providers involved in the patient's care are coordinating medications and providing guidance on medication adherence.

**Palliative Care:** Consider palliative care services to help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients and their families. Palliative care focuses on providing comfort and support, and it can be integrated with other medical treatments.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Navigating healthcare options for Alzheimer's patients requires careful consideration. This review provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape near ZIP code 17943. However, it's essential to conduct thorough research, consult with healthcare professionals, and gather information from multiple sources.

**Recommendations:**

* **Contact the Hospitals Directly:** Contact Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital and Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill to inquire about their specific programs for Alzheimer's care, including memory care clinics, specialist availability, and telehealth options.
* **Check ER Wait Times:** Utilize online resources to monitor real-time ER wait times at both hospitals.
* **Contact the Alzheimer's Association:** Reach out to the Alzheimer's Association for information on local support groups, educational programs, and resources.
* **Contact the Area Agency on Aging:** Contact the Area Agency on Aging for Schuylkill County to learn about available services for older adults and caregivers.
* **Discuss with Primary Care Physician:** Consult with the patient's primary care physician to discuss the need for specialist referrals and care coordination.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments with neurologists, geriatricians, and memory care specialists.
* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate transportation options to ensure access to medical appointments and other essential services.
* **Plan for Caregiver Support:** Explore respite care services, in-home care assistance, and other resources to support caregivers.
* **Investigate Financial Assistance:** Research financial assistance programs to help cover the costs of care.

By taking these steps, families in the 17943 area can make informed decisions and access the resources needed to provide the best possible care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Remember, this review is a snapshot in time, and healthcare information changes frequently. Always verify information with the relevant healthcare providers and organizations.

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Health Scores Near 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania

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