24265, Keokee, Virginia Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24265, Keokee, Virginia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in the 24265 Area

The journey through Alzheimer's disease is fraught with challenges, demanding specialized care and support. For residents near ZIP code 24265, understanding the local healthcare landscape is crucial. This review provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, focusing on hospital capabilities, specialty centers, and access to care, specifically considering the needs of individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's.

**Defining the Score:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" isn't a single number. Instead, it's a composite evaluation considering several factors. These include the availability of geriatric specialists, memory care units, access to clinical trials, telehealth options, and overall hospital quality metrics like CMS star ratings and ER wait times. The goal is to provide a practical guide for navigating healthcare decisions.

**Key Hospitals in the Vicinity:**

The immediate area around ZIP code 24265, which encompasses the town of Lebanon, Virginia, has limited hospital options. The primary healthcare provider is **Russell County Medical Center (RCMC)**, located directly within the zip code. It is important to note that this facility is a critical access hospital, serving a smaller, rural population. Other hospitals in the broader region, reachable within a reasonable driving distance, will also be assessed.

**Russell County Medical Center (RCMC): The Local Hub**

RCMC is the closest hospital, making it the first point of contact for many residents. However, as a critical access hospital, its resources are limited compared to larger facilities. RCMC's focus is on providing essential services to the community, including emergency care and basic medical procedures.

* **Geriatric Services:** RCMC's geriatric services are limited. Residents with complex Alzheimer's needs may require referral to specialists outside of the immediate area.
* **Memory Care:** RCMC does not have a dedicated memory care unit. Patients requiring specialized memory care will need to be transferred to a facility with such a unit.
* **Telehealth:** RCMC may offer some telehealth options, particularly for consultations with specialists. However, the availability and scope of these services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.
* **CMS Star Rating:** RCMC's CMS star rating is not readily available. Critical access hospitals are not always rated in the same way as larger facilities.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at RCMC can vary. Patients should anticipate potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Regional Considerations: Expanding the Scope**

Given the limitations of RCMC, residents may need to consider hospitals further afield. This review will consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, typically within a 60-90 minute radius, to assess the availability of specialized Alzheimer's care.

**Ballad Health System: A Regional Network**

Ballad Health is a regional health system that operates several hospitals in the surrounding area. This system often provides a more comprehensive range of services, including some that might benefit Alzheimer's patients.

* **Bristol Regional Medical Center (Bristol, TN):** This is one of the flagship hospitals within the Ballad Health system. It is located approximately 45 minutes from Lebanon. Bristol Regional Medical Center has a more robust infrastructure.
* **Geriatric Services:** Bristol Regional Medical Center likely has a geriatric medicine department or geriatric specialists on staff, offering more specialized care for older adults.
* **Memory Care:** The hospital may have a dedicated memory care unit or a specialized program within its geriatric services.
* **Telehealth:** Ballad Health, as a system, is known for its telehealth initiatives. Bristol Regional Medical Center likely offers telehealth consultations with specialists, which can be beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Bristol Regional Medical Center has a CMS star rating. This rating provides a general indication of the hospital's overall quality. The rating should be checked on the CMS website.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Bristol Regional Medical Center should be checked on the hospital's website or through online resources.

* **Holston Valley Medical Center (Kingsport, TN):** Located approximately 60 minutes from Lebanon, Holston Valley Medical Center is another key hospital within the Ballad Health system.
* **Geriatric Services:** Holston Valley Medical Center likely offers geriatric services.
* **Memory Care:** The hospital may have a dedicated memory care unit.
* **Telehealth:** The hospital likely has telehealth options.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Holston Valley Medical Center has a CMS star rating.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Holston Valley Medical Center should be checked on the hospital's website.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Beyond general hospital services, the availability of specialty centers and programs is crucial for Alzheimer's care.

* **Memory Clinics:** The presence of specialized memory clinics is a significant factor. These clinics typically offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and support services for patients and their families. Check if the Ballad Health hospitals have memory clinics.
* **Geriatric Psychiatry:** Access to geriatric psychiatrists is essential for managing behavioral and psychological symptoms associated with Alzheimer's. Determine if the hospitals have geriatric psychiatry services.
* **Rehabilitation Services:** Rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, are often needed to maintain function and quality of life. Assess the availability of these services.
* **Support Groups and Resources:** Hospitals should offer or be able to connect patients and families with support groups, educational programs, and community resources.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those in rural areas.

* **Telemedicine Consultations:** Check the availability of telehealth consultations with neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Some hospitals may offer remote monitoring programs to track vital signs and other health indicators.
* **Virtual Support Groups:** Determine if virtual support groups are available.

**Clinical Trials and Research:**

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

* **Research Centers:** Identify any research centers or hospitals in the region that are actively involved in Alzheimer's clinical trials.
* **Trial Availability:** Determine if any ongoing clinical trials are enrolling participants in the area.

**Access to Care and Insurance:**

The ability to access care is influenced by insurance coverage and financial considerations.

* **Insurance Acceptance:** Verify which insurance plans are accepted by the hospitals and specialists.
* **Financial Assistance:** Inquire about financial assistance programs for patients who may have difficulty affording care.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

ER wait times are a crucial indicator of access to care, especially in emergencies.

* **Real-Time Data:** Check the hospital websites or online resources for real-time ER wait time data.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours or in the event of a surge in patients.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For residents near ZIP code 24265, the healthcare landscape for Alzheimer's care requires careful navigation. While RCMC provides local access, the need for specialized care often necessitates considering regional hospitals like those within the Ballad Health system.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for this area is influenced by the availability of geriatric specialists, memory care units, telehealth options, and overall hospital quality metrics. It's essential to research the specific services offered by each hospital, assess ER wait times, and consider the availability of support programs and clinical trials.

Families should actively engage with healthcare providers, seek referrals to specialists, and explore all available resources to ensure the best possible care for their loved ones. This review provides a starting point, but ongoing research and communication with healthcare professionals are crucial for making informed decisions.