35135, Riverside, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 35135, Riverside, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.27 percent of the residents in 35135 has some form of health insurance. 41.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.52 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 35135 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 513 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35135. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 415 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 749 health care providers accessible to residents in 35135, Riverside, Alabama.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35135 and Primary Care in Riverside

This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 35135, focusing on their preparedness to address the growing needs of patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Furthermore, it examines the availability of primary care services in Riverside, Alabama, considering factors crucial for supporting individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's. The analysis utilizes an "Alzheimer's Score" framework, evaluating several key indicators to assess the overall quality and accessibility of care.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a single numerical value but a composite assessment based on multiple factors. These factors include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized training among PCPs, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall responsiveness of the healthcare system to the unique needs of Alzheimer's patients.

Within ZIP code 35135, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical first consideration. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can create barriers to timely access to care, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like Alzheimer's. Researching the specific number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, and comparing this to the population size, provides an initial understanding of access challenges. Further investigation into the patient demographics within the area is also essential. A large elderly population, for example, could exacerbate the strain on available resources.

Beyond simple numbers, the expertise of the physicians is paramount. The Alzheimer's Score weighs heavily on the training and experience of the PCPs. Are physicians in 35135 actively pursuing continuing medical education (CME) specifically focused on dementia care? Do any of the practices have physicians who are board-certified in geriatric medicine or neurology? The presence of these specialists, even if not exclusively dedicated to Alzheimer's, significantly elevates the score, as it indicates a higher level of expertise and a greater understanding of the disease's complexities.

Standout practices within the ZIP code deserve recognition. Practices that have implemented innovative approaches to Alzheimer's care would receive a higher score. This might include practices that have dedicated memory clinics, offer comprehensive cognitive assessments, or provide care coordination services to help patients and families navigate the healthcare system. Identifying these standout practices is crucial for guiding patients and families towards the best possible care options.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for Alzheimer's patients, particularly those with mobility issues or who live in rural areas. It allows for remote consultations, medication management, and even cognitive assessments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and integrated them into their care models receive a higher score. The availability of virtual visits, remote patient monitoring, and digital communication tools are all considered.

The availability of mental health resources is another critical factor. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The ability to access mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups, is crucial for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. The Alzheimer's Score assesses the proximity and accessibility of these resources within the community.

Considering primary care availability in Riverside, Alabama, requires a broader perspective. The analysis must consider the geographical distribution of PCPs across the city, not just within the 35135 ZIP code. Are there underserved areas where access to primary care is limited? The overall healthcare infrastructure, including the presence of hospitals, specialized clinics, and support services, is also assessed.

The responsiveness of the healthcare system to the needs of Alzheimer's patients is another key consideration. This includes factors such as the availability of care coordination services, the ease of access to specialists, and the responsiveness of the practices to patient inquiries and concerns. Practices that prioritize communication, offer patient education materials, and actively engage with caregivers receive a higher score.

The Alzheimer's Score also considers the availability of support services for caregivers. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's is a demanding task, and caregivers often experience significant stress and burnout. The presence of caregiver support groups, respite care services, and educational programs for caregivers significantly improves the score.

The analysis also assesses the availability of community resources, such as adult day care centers, memory care facilities, and transportation services. These resources provide essential support for both patients and caregivers, and their availability contributes to a higher Alzheimer's Score.

Finally, the analysis must consider the overall quality of care provided by the PCPs in 35135 and Riverside. This includes factors such as patient satisfaction, the use of evidence-based practices, and the adherence to quality metrics. Practices that consistently deliver high-quality care receive a higher score.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of Alzheimer's care within ZIP code 35135 and the broader Riverside area requires a multifaceted approach. The Alzheimer's Score framework provides a comprehensive assessment, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, specialized training, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and caregiver support. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, we can work towards improving the quality of care for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 35135 and Riverside, including the locations of PCPs, specialists, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a valuable tool for navigating the healthcare system and making informed decisions about care.