35984, Mentone, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 35984, Mentone, Alabama is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.30 percent of the residents in 35984 has some form of health insurance. 42.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.09 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 35984 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 96 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 35984. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 505 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 699 health care providers accessible to residents in 35984, Mentone, Alabama.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 35984 & Primary Care in Mentone, AL**

This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment for the availability and quality of healthcare resources, specifically focusing on physicians within ZIP code 35984 (Mentone, AL) and the broader context of primary care accessibility in the Mentone area. The goal is to evaluate the landscape of care for individuals, particularly seniors, who may be at risk or already diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. This assessment incorporates factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundation of a strong Alzheimer's Score lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians. In Mentone, the geographical isolation of the area, coupled with a potentially aging population, presents a unique challenge. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning a small number of doctors serving a large population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate management of chronic conditions. The availability of primary care physicians who are accepting new patients is also a crucial factor. A shortage of available physicians can force individuals to travel significant distances for care, which can be especially difficult for those with mobility issues or cognitive decline.

Assessing the quality of care requires looking beyond sheer numbers. The presence of standout practices, those known for their commitment to geriatric care and dementia management, significantly elevates the Alzheimer's Score. These practices often have specialized staff, including nurses and medical assistants, who are trained in the unique needs of older adults and individuals with cognitive impairments. They may also offer comprehensive services, such as memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and support groups for patients and their families. The integration of these services into a primary care setting is particularly beneficial, as it allows for coordinated care and continuity of treatment.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component of a robust Alzheimer's Score. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, through video consultations or phone calls, can be a game-changer for individuals in rural areas like Mentone. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to receive regular check-ups, medication management, and even mental health counseling. The availability of telemedicine services, especially those offered by primary care physicians, significantly improves the accessibility and convenience of care. The ability to remotely monitor patients’ conditions, provide education, and offer support can also improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on caregivers.

The presence of robust mental health resources is critical for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, agitation, and psychosis. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who specialize in geriatric mental health is therefore essential. These professionals can provide medication management, psychotherapy, and support for both patients and their families. The availability of support groups, educational programs, and respite care services further enhances the Alzheimer's Score by providing a comprehensive network of care.

In the context of Mentone, the availability of these resources is likely to be impacted by the area's rural nature. The presence of a nearby hospital with a geriatric unit or a memory care clinic is highly beneficial. The hospital's ability to offer specialized services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, can improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's. The hospital's capacity to provide acute care for patients with behavioral issues is also a key factor.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for doctors in ZIP code 35984 and primary care availability in Mentone is likely to be moderate. The rural nature of the area presents challenges in terms of physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of specialized services. However, the presence of a dedicated primary care physician or a practice with a focus on geriatric care could significantly improve the score. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources would further enhance the quality of care. The ability to access specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, is also a critical factor.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mentone and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, and mental health facilities. They can also provide information on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine availability, and other factors that contribute to the Alzheimer's Score.