18846, Sugar Run, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18846, Sugar Run, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Care in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Area: A Hospital Scorecard Near 18846

The search for quality Alzheimer's care is a pressing concern for families across the nation, and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area, particularly near the 18846 ZIP code, is no exception. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of local hospital resources, focusing on factors crucial for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers: access to specialized care, emergency services, and telehealth capabilities. Note that this review is based on publicly available data and may not encompass all aspects of care.

**Defining the Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their General Performance**

The 18846 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Susquehanna County, Pennsylvania, necessitates considering hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, primarily in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre. These cities offer the most comprehensive healthcare options in the region.

**Geisinger Health System: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger, a large integrated health system, is a dominant player in the area. While the 18846 ZIP code is not directly within the catchment area of a Geisinger hospital, the system's influence is undeniable.

* **Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton):** This hospital serves as a primary access point for many residents. It holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While this rating is considered "average," it's essential to remember that CMS ratings are just one indicator of quality. The hospital has a moderate ER wait time, typically around 30-60 minutes, which is a crucial factor for patients with cognitive impairment who may experience increased anxiety in emergency situations. Geisinger Community Medical Center has a dedicated neurology department that can assess and provide initial care for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
* **Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre):** This hospital also serves the region and has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times here are similar to those at the Scranton location. The neurology department at Wyoming Valley is also a significant resource, with neurologists who specialize in cognitive disorders. The hospital's telehealth capabilities are worth noting, as they can provide access to specialists and follow-up care for patients in remote areas.

**Commonwealth Health: Another Key Player**

Commonwealth Health operates several hospitals in the area, offering additional options for patients.

* **Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton):** This hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. The ER wait times are generally comparable to Geisinger hospitals. Moses Taylor has a neurology department that can assess and provide initial care for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
* **Regional Hospital of Scranton:** This hospital also has a 3-star CMS rating. The ER wait times are generally comparable to Geisinger hospitals. Regional Hospital has a neurology department that can assess and provide initial care for patients with Alzheimer's disease.

**Specific Considerations for Alzheimer's Patients**

Beyond general hospital performance, several factors are particularly important for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers.

**Neurology Departments and Specialized Care:** The presence of a robust neurology department is paramount. These departments should have neurologists specializing in cognitive disorders, capable of diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing management of Alzheimer's disease. Inquire about the availability of neuropsychological testing, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis and monitoring disease progression.

**Emergency Room Preparedness:** ERs should be equipped to handle the unique needs of patients with cognitive impairment. This includes staff training in dementia care, a calm and reassuring environment, and clear communication strategies. Long wait times can be particularly distressing for these patients, so understanding the average wait times is critical.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth offers significant benefits for Alzheimer's patients, especially those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Telehealth can provide access to specialists, facilitate follow-up appointments, and offer support groups for caregivers. Inquire about the availability of telehealth services for neurology consultations, medication management, and caregiver support.

**Caregiver Support:** The burden of caregiving for Alzheimer's patients is immense. Hospitals should offer resources for caregivers, such as support groups, educational programs, and respite care options. Inquire about the availability of these services at each hospital.

**Hospital-Specific Details and Considerations**

**Geisinger:** Geisinger has made significant investments in telehealth, offering a range of virtual care options. They have a dedicated memory care program that provides comprehensive services, including diagnosis, treatment, and support for patients and families. Geisinger has a large network of primary care physicians who can coordinate care for patients with Alzheimer's disease.

**Commonwealth Health:** Commonwealth Health offers neurology services at its hospitals, with neurologists specializing in cognitive disorders. They provide support groups for caregivers.

**Assessing ER Wait Times:** It's crucial to check current ER wait times. Websites like [https://www.healthcare.gov/](https://www.healthcare.gov/) and hospital websites often provide this information. This is a dynamic metric, and times can fluctuate.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Limited Indicator:** CMS star ratings are a useful starting point, but they don't capture the full picture of Alzheimer's care. They primarily reflect general hospital performance and patient satisfaction. They do not specifically evaluate the quality of dementia care.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:** While not directly in the 18846 ZIP code, consider the availability of specialized memory care centers or programs within the health systems. These programs often offer comprehensive services, including diagnostic evaluations, medication management, therapy, and caregiver support.

**Telehealth Stats and Availability:** Inquire directly with each hospital about their telehealth capabilities. Ask about the availability of virtual neurology consultations, medication management, and caregiver support groups.

**Additional Resources**

* **Alzheimer's Association:** The Alzheimer's Association ([https://www.alz.org/](https://www.alz.org/)) is an invaluable resource, providing information, support, and advocacy for Alzheimer's patients and their families.
* **Pennsylvania Department of Aging:** The Pennsylvania Department of Aging ([https://www.aging.pa.gov/](https://www.aging.pa.gov/)) can provide information on local resources and programs for seniors.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right hospital for Alzheimer's care requires careful consideration of various factors. The hospitals near the 18846 ZIP code offer a range of services, but the quality of care can vary. Patients and caregivers should research the neurology departments, assess ER preparedness, and explore telehealth options. By gathering specific information and utilizing available resources, families can make informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of their loved ones. Remember that this review is a starting point, and personal consultations with healthcare providers are essential for developing an individualized care plan.