18421, Forest City, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18421, Forest City, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Hawley, PA (18421)

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when facing the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, requires a nuanced understanding of available resources. This review provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment of hospitals and healthcare options near Hawley, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18421), focusing on critical factors for patients and caregivers. This score considers factors like hospital quality, specialized services, accessibility, and the availability of resources tailored to Alzheimer's patients.

**Proximity and Primary Care: The Foundation of Support**

The cornerstone of Alzheimer's care is often the primary care physician. Proximity to a reliable primary care provider is crucial for regular check-ups, medication management, and early intervention. Residents of 18421 have a few options. The Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, a short drive away, is a primary healthcare provider in the region. The hospital also has a family medicine practice.

**Flagship Hospital Analysis: Wayne Memorial Hospital**

Wayne Memorial Hospital, located in Honesdale, PA, is a key healthcare provider for the 18421 area. While it doesn’t have a dedicated Alzheimer's center, it offers essential services. Wayne Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest, indicates a generally acceptable level of quality and patient safety. The hospital's emergency room wait times are a critical factor for any healthcare assessment. According to recent data, the average ER wait time is around 30 minutes. This information is available from public sources like the hospital's website or third-party healthcare websites.

**Specialty Care and Geriatric Services:**

Wayne Memorial Hospital has a geriatric care unit. This is a crucial resource for Alzheimer's patients, as it can provide specialized care for the elderly. This unit is staffed with nurses and physicians trained to treat the unique needs of the elderly. This is a good option for those in the area.

**Telehealth Accessibility:**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Wayne Memorial Hospital offers telehealth services. These services can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists. The hospital’s website or patient portal provides details on available telehealth options.

**Other Healthcare Options in the Region:**

Residents of 18421 may also consider healthcare options outside of the immediate area. The Geisinger Health System, with its main campus in Danville, PA, is a larger healthcare provider. Geisinger has specialized geriatric services and memory care programs. However, the distance from Hawley (approximately 100 miles) may be a barrier for some patients and caregivers.

**Emergency Room Considerations:**

ER wait times are a significant concern for any patient, especially those with Alzheimer's. Long wait times can be disorienting and stressful. The average ER wait time at Wayne Memorial Hospital is a key factor. If the wait times are consistently high, it may be worth considering alternative urgent care options or calling ahead to inquire about wait times.

**Alzheimer's-Specific Resources:**

The availability of resources specifically designed for Alzheimer's patients is essential. Wayne Memorial Hospital has a geriatric care unit. The hospital also works with community organizations that provide support groups and educational programs for patients and caregivers. The Alzheimer's Association offers a wealth of information and support services, including local chapter meetings and online resources.

**Caregiver Support: A Critical Component**

Caregiver support is vital for the well-being of both the patient and the caregiver. Local support groups, respite care services, and educational programs can provide much-needed assistance. The Alzheimer's Association is a valuable resource for finding these types of support.

**Medication Management and Pharmacy Access:**

Access to a reliable pharmacy is essential for managing Alzheimer's medications. The 18421 area has several pharmacies, including chain pharmacies and independent pharmacies. It is important to find a pharmacy that is familiar with the patient's medications and can provide convenient refills and medication counseling.

**Financial Considerations:**

The cost of Alzheimer's care can be significant. Medicare and Medicaid can help cover some of the costs. It is essential to understand the patient's insurance coverage and to explore all available financial assistance programs.

**Alzheimer's Score Assessment: Wayne Memorial Hospital and the 18421 Region**

Wayne Memorial Hospital, while not a flagship hospital with a dedicated Alzheimer's center, provides a foundation of care for the 18421 area. The hospital's geriatric care unit is a valuable resource. The CMS 3-star rating indicates a generally acceptable level of quality. The average ER wait times are a factor to consider.

The availability of local support groups and resources from the Alzheimer's Association enhances the overall care landscape. The proximity to primary care providers is another positive aspect.

**Areas for Improvement:**

Wayne Memorial Hospital could improve by expanding its geriatric care services and establishing a dedicated memory care unit. Increased collaboration with the Alzheimer's Association and other community organizations could further enhance the support available to patients and caregivers. More information on the hospital's website about Alzheimer's-specific resources would also be helpful.

**Overall Assessment:**

The 18421 area offers a reasonable level of healthcare for Alzheimer's patients. Wayne Memorial Hospital is a key provider, and the availability of local support groups and resources from the Alzheimer's Association strengthens the care network. The area's healthcare infrastructure is not as robust as in larger metropolitan areas, but it provides a foundation of care. Patients and caregivers should proactively seek out information and resources to ensure the best possible care. The Alzheimer's Score for the 18421 area is moderately positive, with opportunities for improvement.