24817, Bradshaw, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24817, Bradshaw, West Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Alzheimer's Care in the Heart of Appalachia: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24817

Finding quality Alzheimer's care is a critical concern for families, and location plays a significant role. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 24817 (Bluefield, West Virginia) to assess their capacity to provide comprehensive care for individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. We will delve into factors like hospital quality ratings, specialized services, emergency room wait times, telehealth capabilities, and the availability of support programs. This information is intended to help families make informed decisions about the best options for their loved ones.

**The Landscape: Limited Options, Regional Focus**

The immediate vicinity of Bluefield, WV, presents a healthcare landscape characterized by a smaller number of hospitals compared to more urban areas. Residents often rely on regional facilities, and travel to larger medical centers in neighboring states may be necessary for certain specialized services. This review focuses on the primary hospitals serving the 24817 area, considering their capabilities in Alzheimer's care.

**Princeton Community Hospital: A Cornerstone of Care**

Princeton Community Hospital (PCH), located in Princeton, WV, is a significant healthcare provider for the region. PCH is a 200-bed facility and the closest major hospital. While PCH does not have a dedicated Alzheimer's Center, it offers a range of services relevant to Alzheimer's care. PCH has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

PCH's strengths lie in its general medical services. They provide internal medicine, neurology, and geriatric care, all of which are crucial for managing the symptoms and complications associated with Alzheimer's. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience other health issues, and PCH's broad medical offerings can be beneficial.

**ER Wait Times and Access:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical consideration, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's who may experience acute medical events. The average ER wait time at PCH is approximately 2-3 hours, which can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of cases.

**Telehealth Initiatives:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or limited access to specialists. PCH offers some telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists in certain areas. This can be beneficial for patients with Alzheimer's who need ongoing monitoring or medication management. The availability of telehealth services can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Specialty Centers and Services:**

While PCH does not have a dedicated Alzheimer's center, it does offer neurology and geriatric services. These departments play a vital role in diagnosing and managing the symptoms of Alzheimer's.

**Other Important Considerations:**

PCH provides various support services, including social work and case management. These services are essential for helping patients and families navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care. Case managers can assist with discharge planning, medication management, and connecting patients with community resources.

**LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski: A Regional Option**

LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski, located in Pulaski, VA, is another hospital that serves the region. It is located approximately 50 miles from Bluefield. LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

**Specialized Services and Support:**

LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski offers a broader range of specialty services than PCH. While it does not have a dedicated Alzheimer's center, it has a comprehensive neurology department. This department is crucial for diagnosing and treating neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's.

**ER Wait Times and Access:**

ER wait times at LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski are typically similar to those at PCH, averaging between 2-3 hours. However, wait times can vary depending on the volume of patients.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski has expanded its telehealth services, offering virtual consultations with specialists. This is a significant advantage for patients with Alzheimer's who may have difficulty traveling.

**Other Important Considerations:**

LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski offers a variety of support services, including social work and case management. These services are essential for helping patients and families navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care.

**Carilion New River Valley Medical Center: Expanding the Scope**

Carilion New River Valley Medical Center, located in Christiansburg, VA, is approximately 75 miles from Bluefield. This hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

**Specialized Services and Support:**

Carilion New River Valley Medical Center offers comprehensive medical services, including neurology and geriatric care. These departments are essential for diagnosing and managing the symptoms of Alzheimer's.

**ER Wait Times and Access:**

ER wait times at Carilion New River Valley Medical Center are typically similar to those at PCH and LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski, averaging between 2-3 hours. However, wait times can vary depending on the volume of patients.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Carilion New River Valley Medical Center has expanded its telehealth services, offering virtual consultations with specialists. This is a significant advantage for patients with Alzheimer's who may have difficulty traveling.

**Other Important Considerations:**

Carilion New River Valley Medical Center offers a variety of support services, including social work and case management. These services are essential for helping patients and families navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care.

**Key Considerations for Families**

When choosing a hospital for Alzheimer's care, families should consider several factors:

* **Neurology and Geriatric Services:** Ensure the hospital has a strong neurology department with experienced specialists. Geriatric care is also essential for managing the complex health needs of older adults.
* **Support Services:** Look for hospitals that offer social work, case management, and access to community resources. These services can provide invaluable support to patients and families.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can be a convenient and accessible option for ongoing monitoring and consultations.
* **ER Wait Times:** While ER wait times can vary, it is important to consider the average wait times at each hospital.
* **Proximity:** Proximity to the hospital is a critical factor, especially in emergencies.

**The Verdict: Navigating a Challenging Landscape**

The hospitals near ZIP code 24817 offer a range of services for Alzheimer's care, but none have dedicated Alzheimer's centers. Princeton Community Hospital, LewisGale Hospital - Pulaski, and Carilion New River Valley Medical Center all provide essential medical services, including neurology and geriatric care. Families should carefully evaluate the strengths of each hospital, considering factors like ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and support services. Given the limited options in this rural area, families may need to consider travel to larger medical centers for specialized care. The best approach is to research each hospital thoroughly, consider individual needs, and consult with healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate care plan.