36273, Ranburne, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36273, Ranburne, Alabama is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.76 percent of the residents in 36273 has some form of health insurance. 25.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.66 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 36273 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 724 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36273. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 468 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 109 health care providers accessible to residents in 36273, Ranburne, Alabama.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Ranburne, AL (ZIP Code 36273)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services within the ZIP code 36273, focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources. This information will be synthesized to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" reflecting the area's preparedness to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

The primary care landscape in Ranburne, Alabama, presents a unique challenge. The area is relatively rural, which often translates to a lower density of healthcare providers compared to more urban environments. This impacts access to care, especially for specialized needs like those associated with Alzheimer's disease. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment, both critical in managing Alzheimer's. Data from various sources, including the US Census Bureau and the Alabama Department of Public Health, would be needed to accurately determine the current ratio for this specific ZIP code. However, a general understanding of rural healthcare trends suggests this ratio might be less favorable than the national average.

Identifying standout practices is vital. These are primary care clinics demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care, including specific training in dementia management. Such practices would ideally have physicians and staff trained in cognitive assessments, memory care, and the unique needs of patients with Alzheimer's. They should also actively participate in continuing medical education related to Alzheimer's and related dementias. These practices often collaborate with specialists, such as neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists, to provide comprehensive care. Furthermore, they may offer support groups for caregivers, educational resources, and connections to community-based services. The existence of such practices significantly elevates the "Alzheimer's Score" for the area.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be locally available. For Alzheimer's care, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of patients' conditions. The degree of telemedicine adoption within primary care practices in 36273 will significantly impact the "Alzheimer's Score." Practices that actively utilize telemedicine, offer virtual appointments, and integrate remote monitoring technologies will score higher. This is particularly important for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, which can be effectively managed remotely.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience behavioral and psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and agitation. Caregivers also face significant emotional and psychological challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is therefore critical. The presence of these resources within the community, or readily accessible through referrals, is a key factor in assessing the area's preparedness. The "Alzheimer's Score" will be positively influenced by the availability of these mental health services, as well as the existence of support groups and counseling services specifically tailored to Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Ranburne, AL (ZIP Code 36273) is contingent on a comprehensive assessment of these factors. Without precise data on physician-to-patient ratios, specific practice details, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, a definitive score cannot be assigned. However, based on the general characteristics of rural healthcare, it is likely that the area faces challenges in providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. Improving the "Alzheimer's Score" will require focused efforts to increase the number of primary care physicians, promote the adoption of telemedicine, and expand access to mental health services. Furthermore, supporting and recognizing practices that excel in geriatric care and dementia management is crucial.

The current landscape likely reflects a need for improvements. The rural nature of the area presents inherent limitations, but proactive measures can mitigate these challenges. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential. This collaborative approach can facilitate the development of innovative solutions to improve access to care and support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. This includes exploring grant opportunities, implementing telehealth programs, and establishing partnerships with regional healthcare systems.

The final "Alzheimer's Score" would be a complex calculation, taking into account all the factors discussed. It would provide a valuable snapshot of the area's preparedness to address the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. This score could then be used to identify areas for improvement and guide the allocation of resources. The score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and the implementation of new initiatives.

The information presented here highlights the complex interplay of factors that impact Alzheimer's care in a rural setting. A detailed analysis, incorporating specific data, is essential for a comprehensive understanding.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ranburne, AL (ZIP Code 36273), including the location of primary care providers, mental health resources, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify potential gaps in care, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the community.