35772, Stevenson, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 35772, Stevenson, Alabama is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.99 percent of the residents in 35772 has some form of health insurance. 43.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.82 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 35772 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,138 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35772. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 834 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 516 health care providers accessible to residents in 35772, Stevenson, Alabama.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Stevenson, AL (ZIP Code 35772)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of Alzheimer's-related care within Stevenson, Alabama (ZIP Code 35772), focusing on primary care physicians and related resources. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health support, ultimately informing residents about the care landscape.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often lies within primary care. In Stevenson, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Data suggests a rural area like Stevenson may face challenges in physician density. This means that the number of primary care physicians available to serve the population might be lower than in more urban areas. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care, which is crucial for early detection and management of Alzheimer's disease. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect this, with a lower score if the physician-to-patient ratio is unfavorable.

Standout practices are those demonstrating a commitment to Alzheimer's care. This includes practices that actively screen patients for cognitive decline, offer comprehensive memory evaluations, and have staff trained in dementia care. Practices that collaborate with specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, would also receive higher marks. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the presence of these attributes, rewarding practices that prioritize specialized care for patients exhibiting symptoms of cognitive decline.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can expand access to specialists and provide convenient follow-up appointments, reducing the burden on patients and caregivers. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, especially for memory assessments or medication management, will be rated favorably. The Alzheimer's Score will assess the degree of telemedicine integration, recognizing its potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care.

Mental health resources are essential in Alzheimer's care. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Caregivers also face significant emotional and psychological strain. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is a crucial factor. The Alzheimer's Score will evaluate the presence of these resources, considering their proximity, accessibility, and integration with primary care practices.

In the context of Stevenson, the Alzheimer's Score will consider the availability of local support groups, counseling services, and respite care options for caregivers. These resources are vital for supporting both patients and their families, improving their quality of life, and reducing the burden of care. The analysis will assess the accessibility and quality of these resources, factoring them into the overall score.

Specific data points will be gathered to inform the Alzheimer's Score. This includes the number of primary care physicians practicing in the 35772 ZIP code, the average patient panel size for each physician, and the presence of specialized training in Alzheimer's care among the medical staff. The analysis will also assess the availability of diagnostic tools, such as cognitive assessments and imaging services, within the local healthcare system.

The evaluation will extend to the practices' billing practices and insurance acceptance. Ensuring that services are accessible and affordable is paramount. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, will be viewed more favorably. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the financial accessibility of care, recognizing the importance of affordability in accessing necessary medical services.

The analysis will also explore the level of collaboration among healthcare providers. Effective Alzheimer's care often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving primary care physicians, neurologists, geriatricians, psychiatrists, and other specialists. Practices that actively collaborate with these specialists and share patient information seamlessly will receive higher scores. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the degree of coordination and communication within the local healthcare ecosystem.

The assessment will take into account the practices' participation in research or clinical trials related to Alzheimer's disease. Involvement in research demonstrates a commitment to advancing knowledge and improving care. Practices that participate in clinical trials or offer access to experimental treatments will be viewed more favorably. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the practices' engagement in research and their commitment to innovation.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the practices' commitment to patient education and caregiver support. Providing patients and caregivers with information about Alzheimer's disease, its progression, and available resources is essential. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or caregiver training programs will be rated favorably. The Alzheimer's Score will assess the practices' commitment to empowering patients and caregivers with knowledge and support.

The Alzheimer's Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the combined assessment of all these factors. It will provide a comprehensive overview of the Alzheimer's care landscape in Stevenson, Alabama. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, allowing residents to easily understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

This analysis will not only provide an Alzheimer's Score but also identify areas for improvement. It will highlight gaps in care, such as a shortage of specialists or limited access to mental health resources. This information can be used to advocate for improvements in the local healthcare system and to raise awareness about the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

The ultimate goal is to empower residents of Stevenson with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. By understanding the availability and quality of Alzheimer's-related care, individuals can better navigate the healthcare system and access the support they need.

Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape in Stevenson, Alabama, and surrounding areas? Explore the power of geographic data with CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, resource distribution, and accessibility.