35739, Ardmore, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 35739, Ardmore, Alabama is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.84 percent of the residents in 35739 has some form of health insurance. 30.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.74 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 35739 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 996 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35739. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 818 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,534 health care providers accessible to residents in 35739, Ardmore, Alabama.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35739 and Primary Care Availability in Ardmore**

This analysis evaluates the accessibility and quality of healthcare, particularly concerning Alzheimer's disease, within ZIP code 35739 and the broader primary care landscape of Ardmore, Alabama. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical factors in supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

ZIP code 35739, encompassing a portion of Ardmore, presents a unique challenge. The rural nature of the area often translates to limited access to specialized medical care, including geriatricians and neurologists, crucial for Alzheimer's diagnosis and management. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care. Researching publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Alabama Department of Public Health can provide a preliminary estimate of this ratio. However, this data alone doesn't paint the full picture.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Ardmore is fundamental. PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for individuals exhibiting cognitive decline. They can conduct preliminary assessments, refer patients to specialists, and coordinate ongoing care. The proximity of PCPs to residents is a significant factor. Longer travel times can deter individuals from seeking necessary medical attention, particularly for those with mobility issues or memory impairments. The location of primary care clinics within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, and the number of PCPs accepting new patients, are vital considerations.

Standout practices within the region should be identified. These are medical facilities that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive care for patients with cognitive impairments. This includes practices with physicians specializing in geriatrics or neurology, offering memory screenings, and having staff trained in dementia care. These practices often incorporate care coordination, ensuring seamless communication between specialists, PCPs, and family members. Identifying these practices requires detailed research, including reviewing online patient reviews, checking physician profiles on websites like Healthgrades, and contacting local healthcare providers directly.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas. It allows patients to consult with specialists without traveling long distances. The availability of telemedicine appointments with neurologists, psychiatrists, and geriatricians is a major asset. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local practices, including the types of services offered and the ease of use of their platforms, is essential.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists within the area is vital. Access to support groups, counseling services, and respite care for caregivers can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and their families. Researching local mental health providers, support groups, and community resources is crucial.

The absence of readily available data on these factors is a significant challenge. Publicly available datasets often lack the granular detail needed for a comprehensive analysis. Therefore, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. This includes:

* **Data Collection:** Gathering information from various sources, including healthcare provider websites, public health agencies, and patient reviews.
* **Direct Contact:** Contacting local medical practices and mental health providers to gather information about their services, telemedicine capabilities, and patient volume.
* **Community Engagement:** Engaging with local community organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association, to gather insights and perspectives from individuals and families affected by the disease.

The analysis must consider the challenges faced by caregivers. Caregiving for someone with Alzheimer's is incredibly demanding, both emotionally and physically. The availability of resources like respite care, support groups, and home healthcare services is critical in preventing caregiver burnout. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources is an essential part of the analysis.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors impacting access to care. Income levels, insurance coverage, and transportation availability can all significantly affect an individual's ability to access necessary medical services. Identifying and addressing these disparities is a critical component of ensuring equitable access to care.

The quality of care is not solely determined by the number of doctors or the availability of resources. It is also influenced by the quality of the care provided. This includes the expertise of the physicians, the use of evidence-based practices, and the compassion and empathy shown to patients and their families. Assessing the quality of care requires gathering information from multiple sources, including patient reviews, physician profiles, and data on clinical outcomes.

The analysis must also consider the potential impact of future developments, such as new treatments and diagnostic tools. The field of Alzheimer's research is constantly evolving, and staying abreast of these developments is crucial for providing the best possible care.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for this area would reflect a composite of these factors. It would be a nuanced assessment, acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape. The score would be based on a combination of quantitative data (physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates) and qualitative assessments (the quality of care, the availability of support services).

This analysis is a starting point. It underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 35739 and the broader Ardmore area. Further in-depth research and ongoing monitoring are essential to ensure that individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's have access to the care and support they need.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ardmore and surrounding areas, including the locations of doctors, clinics, and support services, consider using **CartoChrome maps**. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing valuable insights into accessibility and resource availability.