36373, Shorterville, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36373, Shorterville, Alabama is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.59 percent of the residents in 36373 has some form of health insurance. 59.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.11 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 36373 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 74 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36373. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 147 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 11 health care providers accessible to residents in 36373, Shorterville, Alabama.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 36373 & Primary Care in Shorterville

Analyzing the availability of healthcare resources, particularly those relevant to Alzheimer's disease, requires a nuanced understanding of the local landscape. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 36373 and the town of Shorterville, Alabama, evaluating the quality and accessibility of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial elements in supporting individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimers Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with primary care physicians (PCPs). Their role in early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing management is critical. In 36373, evaluating the number of PCPs relative to the population is the first step. This physician-to-patient ratio directly impacts access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial assessments and interventions. Investigating the specific number of PCPs within the ZIP code, coupled with data on the age demographics of the population, is essential. A larger elderly population, a key demographic at risk for Alzheimer's, places a greater demand on primary care services.

Shorterville, a smaller community within the broader area, presents unique challenges. Primary care availability in Shorterville itself might be limited. This necessitates examining the proximity of PCPs in surrounding towns and cities. Travel distance, especially for individuals with mobility issues or early-stage cognitive decline, is a significant barrier to care. The availability of transportation services, such as public transit or community-based programs, becomes a critical factor in assessing accessibility.

Beyond the raw numbers of physicians, the quality of care offered is paramount. Investigating the practices' focus on geriatric care is crucial. Do the practices employ physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or experience in managing cognitive disorders? Do they offer memory screenings or cognitive assessments? The presence of these services within a primary care setting is a strong indicator of a practice's commitment to addressing the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

Standout practices within the area deserve recognition. Identifying those that demonstrate a proactive approach to Alzheimer's care can serve as a model for others. This includes practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, collaborate with local Alzheimer's associations, or offer educational resources for patients and caregivers. Examining patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the quality of care delivered.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate among practices in 36373 and the surrounding region is a key indicator. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and support group participation, particularly for those with mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of telehealth services, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring), and the ease of access (e.g., technology requirements, insurance coverage) is crucial.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease profoundly impacts not only the individual but also their caregivers, leading to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and stress. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the area is therefore a critical component of the "Alzheimers Score." Investigating the number of mental health providers, their specialties (e.g., geriatric psychiatry), and their capacity to accept new patients is essential. The existence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care programs for caregivers further enhances the overall score.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a positive indicator. This can involve co-located mental health professionals or collaborative care models, where PCPs and mental health providers work together to provide comprehensive care. This integrated approach can improve communication, coordination, and access to mental health services for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

The "Alzheimers Score" for 36373 and Shorterville would be a composite assessment, considering the factors discussed above. It would reflect a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. A higher score would indicate a more robust and accessible healthcare system, better equipped to support individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. Conversely, a lower score would signal areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing mental health resources.

The analysis would also consider the availability of specialized services, such as neurologists and geriatricians. While primary care is the cornerstone, access to specialists for diagnosis, treatment, and management is critical. Examining the proximity of these specialists, their wait times for appointments, and their acceptance of insurance plans are all important considerations. The presence of memory care centers or assisted living facilities with specialized dementia care units would also contribute positively to the score.

The "Alzheimers Score" is not merely a numerical ranking. It is a tool for understanding the healthcare ecosystem and identifying areas for improvement. It can inform policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations in their efforts to enhance the quality and accessibility of Alzheimer's care. It can also empower individuals and families to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

To delve deeper into the spatial relationships of these healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping capabilities can visually represent the distribution of physicians, specialists, mental health providers, and other essential services within the 36373 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This visual representation can provide a clear and concise understanding of the healthcare landscape, aiding in the identification of gaps in care and opportunities for improvement. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.