35469, Knoxville, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 35469, Knoxville, Alabama is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.21 percent of the residents in 35469 has some form of health insurance. 73.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.06 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 35469 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 108 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35469. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 175 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 607 health care providers accessible to residents in 35469, Knoxville, Alabama.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 35469 & Knoxville Primary Care

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease management in two distinct locations: ZIP Code 35469 (likely a rural area) and Knoxville, Tennessee, a larger urban center. The evaluation considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Alzheimer's Score" based on the relative strengths and weaknesses of each location. This score, while not a precise numerical value, reflects the overall suitability of each area for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care.

**ZIP Code 35469: A Rural Landscape of Challenges**

ZIP Code 35469, likely representing a smaller town or rural community, presents significant hurdles in providing adequate Alzheimer's care. The most pressing concern is likely the **physician-to-patient ratio**. Rural areas consistently face shortages of primary care physicians, neurologists, and geriatric specialists. This scarcity translates to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized expertise, and increased challenges in coordinating care. Individuals in this area may need to travel considerable distances to access necessary medical services, adding to the burden on patients and caregivers.

Identifying **standout practices** in 35469 is challenging due to the typical lack of large medical groups or specialized clinics. The quality of care often hinges on the dedication and expertise of individual physicians. However, a small, well-regarded practice could still exist. The Alzheimer's Score for this area would be significantly impacted if a practice actively focused on geriatric care, memory screenings, and patient support. The presence of a practice that actively collaborates with local hospitals and home health agencies would further elevate the score.

**Telemedicine adoption** in 35469 could be a critical factor in mitigating the limitations of a geographically dispersed healthcare system. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive virtual therapy sessions, and access online educational resources can significantly improve access to care. However, the success of telemedicine depends on reliable internet access, patient technological literacy, and physician willingness to embrace virtual consultations. The Alzheimer's Score will be lower if these factors are not readily available.

**Mental health resources** in rural areas often lag behind urban centers. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health can be limited. This is a critical consideration for Alzheimer's patients, who frequently experience behavioral changes, anxiety, and depression. The availability of support groups, counseling services for caregivers, and access to medication management are essential for providing comprehensive care. The lack of these resources would severely diminish the Alzheimer's Score for this ZIP code.

**Knoxville: A More Promising Outlook**

Knoxville, as a larger urban area, generally offers a more favorable environment for Alzheimer's care. The **physician-to-patient ratio** is likely better than in 35469, with a greater concentration of primary care physicians, neurologists, and geriatric specialists. This increased availability translates to shorter wait times, easier access to specialists, and a more robust network of healthcare providers. The Alzheimer's Score for Knoxville benefits from this increased density of medical professionals.

**Standout practices** are more likely to exist in Knoxville. Large medical groups, specialized memory clinics, and geriatric care centers may offer comprehensive services, including memory screenings, diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and support services for patients and caregivers. The presence of practices actively involved in research, clinical trials, and community outreach would further enhance the Alzheimer's Score. The reputation and expertise of these practices are crucial in shaping the overall quality of care.

**Telemedicine adoption** in Knoxville is likely more advanced than in 35469. Hospitals and healthcare systems in urban areas are often at the forefront of telemedicine initiatives. The availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online educational resources can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. The Alzheimer's Score will be positively influenced by the widespread adoption and utilization of telemedicine technologies.

**Mental health resources** in Knoxville are generally more abundant than in rural areas. The city likely has a greater number of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health. The availability of support groups, counseling services for caregivers, and access to medication management are critical components of comprehensive Alzheimer's care. The presence of specialized mental health programs and resources will significantly boost the Alzheimer's Score for Knoxville.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion**

Based on this analysis, Knoxville likely receives a significantly higher "Alzheimer's Score" compared to ZIP Code 35469. Knoxville's greater physician density, the presence of specialized practices, more advanced telemedicine adoption, and broader access to mental health resources create a more favorable environment for Alzheimer's care. ZIP Code 35469 faces considerable challenges due to its rural nature, including physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and potential gaps in mental health services.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape in both areas, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, consider using **CartoChrome maps**. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify areas with high and low concentrations of services and assess the accessibility of care for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.