The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36312, Ashford, Alabama is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 89.19 percent of the residents in 36312 has some form of health insurance. 42.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.02 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 36312 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,429 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36312. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,263 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,470 health care providers accessible to residents in 36312, Ashford, Alabama.
Health Scores in 36312, Ashford, Alabama
Alzheimers Score | 29 |
---|---|
People Score | 23 |
Provider Score | 59 |
Hospital Score | 32 |
Travel Score | 48 |
36312 | Ashford | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Ashford, Alabama (ZIP Code 36312)**
This analysis assesses the landscape of Alzheimer's care within Ashford, Alabama (ZIP Code 36312), focusing on primary care physician availability, resource accessibility, and overall preparedness for the aging population facing cognitive decline. The evaluation utilizes publicly available data, including physician directories, healthcare facility listings, and demographic information. It aims to provide an Alzheimer's Score, a qualitative assessment reflecting the community's capacity to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.
Ashford, a relatively small community in Houston County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural setting often translates to limited access to specialized medical care, including neurologists and geriatricians, crucial for diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's. The analysis considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability**
A critical indicator of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Ashford, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a foundational element. PCPs are often the first point of contact for individuals exhibiting early signs of cognitive impairment. A favorable ratio, with a sufficient number of PCPs per resident, increases the likelihood of timely diagnosis and referral to specialists. However, rural areas frequently struggle with physician shortages, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care. Data suggests that the physician-to-patient ratio in Ashford may be below the national average, potentially impacting access to primary care.
The analysis considers the presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine clinics, and geriatric specialists within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. The proximity of these practices to residents is essential, especially for individuals with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The availability of same-day or next-day appointments, which is crucial for addressing urgent health concerns, is also factored into the evaluation.
**Standout Practices and Specialized Care**
Identifying standout practices within Ashford requires assessing their commitment to geriatric care and Alzheimer's management. This includes evaluating the training and experience of physicians in diagnosing and treating cognitive disorders. Practices that have invested in specialized equipment, such as cognitive assessment tools, are considered favorably. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive care, including medication management, care coordination, and support services for caregivers, receive higher scores.
The analysis also considers the presence of memory care clinics or specialized programs within the area. These programs often provide a multidisciplinary approach to care, involving physicians, nurses, social workers, and therapists. The availability of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.
**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility**
Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Ashford is a significant factor in the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer's who may have difficulty traveling to appointments.
The analysis evaluates the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of use of the technology, and the accessibility of the technology for patients with limited digital literacy. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and made it accessible to their patients are considered to be more prepared to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.
**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems**
Alzheimer's disease often presents significant emotional and psychological challenges for both patients and caregivers. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a crucial component of comprehensive Alzheimer's care. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health professionals within Ashford and the surrounding areas, as well as the availability of support groups and counseling services for caregivers.
The presence of community-based resources, such as adult day care centers and respite care programs, is also considered. These resources provide much-needed support for caregivers, allowing them to take breaks and avoid burnout. The availability of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.
**Overall Alzheimer's Score and Conclusion**
Based on the analysis of these factors, Ashford, Alabama (ZIP Code 36312) likely faces challenges in providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. The potential for a lower physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to specialized care, and the rural setting may create barriers to timely diagnosis, treatment, and support. While the adoption of telemedicine could help mitigate some of these challenges, the availability of mental health resources and caregiver support systems may also be limited.
The Alzheimer's Score for Ashford is therefore likely to be moderate, reflecting the need for improvements in several key areas. The community could benefit from initiatives aimed at increasing the number of PCPs, attracting geriatric specialists, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health and caregiver support services.
**Enhance Your Healthcare Insights with CartoChrome Maps**
To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ashford and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive, data-driven maps that visualize healthcare resources, physician locations, and demographic information. Explore the healthcare landscape, identify areas of need, and make informed decisions to improve access to care for individuals with Alzheimer's and other health conditions.
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