36528, Dauphin Island, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36528, Dauphin Island, Alabama is 2 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.57 percent of the residents in 36528 has some form of health insurance. 47.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.14 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 36528 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 150 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36528. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 646 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 health care providers accessible to residents in 36528, Dauphin Island, Alabama.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: Dauphin Island, Alabama (ZIP Code 36528)

Analyzing the availability of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease on Dauphin Island, Alabama (ZIP Code 36528), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will consider physician access, primary care resources, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, culminating in an 'Alzheimers Score' assessment. The unique challenges of a barrier island, with its limited infrastructure and potential for isolation, must be factored into the evaluation.

The core of Alzheimer's care often begins with primary care physicians. In ZIP Code 36528, the availability of primary care is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. Unfortunately, precise, publicly available data specific to Dauphin Island is often limited. However, we can infer from broader county-level data (Mobile County) and regional trends. Mobile County, while containing Dauphin Island, may not accurately reflect the island’s reality. The island's small population likely translates to a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to the county average. This suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care. Residents may need to travel to the mainland, increasing the burden on both patients and caregivers.

Standout practices, if any, are crucial. While specific practice names are difficult to ascertain without detailed research, we can consider general characteristics. Practices demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care, memory loss assessments, and care coordination are highly valuable. These practices often employ nurses, social workers, and other support staff trained in Alzheimer's management. The presence of a dedicated geriatric specialist or a practice with a strong geriatric focus would significantly boost the 'Alzheimers Score'. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is also critical. EHRs facilitate care coordination, medication management, and communication among healthcare providers.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the geographic challenges of Dauphin Island. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists, receive medication management, and participate in therapy sessions remotely. The 'Alzheimers Score' benefits from practices that actively utilize telemedicine platforms. This includes offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online educational resources for patients and caregivers. The availability of reliable internet access on the island is a crucial factor determining the success of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. Caregivers also face significant emotional and psychological stress. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore essential. The presence of support groups, respite care services, and caregiver training programs also significantly contributes to a positive 'Alzheimers Score'. These resources can help manage the emotional and practical challenges of the disease. Dauphin Island may rely on Mobile County's resources, which could add travel time and logistical hurdles.

The 'Alzheimers Score' for ZIP Code 36528, based on the available information, is likely moderate. The island's small size and potential for limited resources present significant challenges. The physician-to-patient ratio is a concern, and the availability of specialized geriatric care may be limited. The success of telemedicine initiatives will depend on internet infrastructure. The availability of mental health support, including both professional services and caregiver resources, is crucial. The score can be improved by increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding the availability of geriatric specialists, promoting telemedicine adoption, and bolstering mental health services.

Further investigation into the specific practices serving Dauphin Island is needed. This includes assessing their geriatric care expertise, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support services. A detailed analysis of local resources, including support groups, respite care, and caregiver training programs, is also essential. This comprehensive assessment would provide a more accurate and nuanced 'Alzheimers Score'. The score is not a static number but a reflection of the dynamic interplay of healthcare resources, community support, and the unique challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers on Dauphin Island.

The impact of Alzheimer's on a community extends beyond medical care. It affects families, social networks, and the overall quality of life. Therefore, efforts to improve Alzheimer's care must be comprehensive, addressing both medical and social needs. This includes promoting early detection, providing access to evidence-based treatments, and supporting caregivers.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape on Dauphin Island and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, healthcare facility proximity, and potential areas of need, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing data and identifying areas where resources are most needed.