36535, Foley, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36535, Foley, Alabama is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.64 percent of the residents in 36535 has some form of health insurance. 38.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.50 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 36535 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,303 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36535. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,910 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,710 health care providers accessible to residents in 36535, Foley, Alabama.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge to healthcare systems, particularly in areas with aging populations. This analysis examines the availability of care for Alzheimer's patients in Foley, Alabama (ZIP Code 36535), focusing on primary care physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. We will not be providing a numerical "Alzheimer's Score" but rather a comprehensive assessment of the current landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with primary care physicians (PCPs). They are frequently the first point of contact for patients and their families, responsible for initial assessments, diagnosis, and ongoing management of the disease. In Foley, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial factor. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain resources and potentially limit access to timely and comprehensive care. This analysis will delve into the approximate ratio within the 36535 ZIP code, considering both the total population and the demographic breakdown, specifically the proportion of residents aged 65 and older, the population most at risk for Alzheimer's. This will help determine the potential burden on the existing primary care infrastructure.

Standout practices in Foley are defined by their commitment to providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. This includes having physicians with specialized training or certifications in geriatrics or neurology. These practices may also have dedicated staff, such as nurses or social workers, experienced in managing the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients and their families. The availability of memory clinics, offering specialized diagnostic testing and treatment plans, is another key indicator of excellence. This analysis will identify any practices within the 36535 ZIP code that demonstrate these characteristics, recognizing their contributions to quality care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Its adoption in Foley, specifically for Alzheimer's care, is important. Telemedicine can provide remote consultations, medication management, and support services, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This analysis will investigate the extent to which local primary care practices and specialists utilize telemedicine platforms. The availability of remote monitoring technologies, such as wearable devices, that can track patient health and provide early warning signs of decline, will also be examined.

Mental health resources are vital for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. The disease often leads to behavioral changes, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is crucial. This analysis will identify the availability of these resources in Foley and the surrounding areas. The presence of support groups, respite care services, and educational programs for caregivers will also be assessed. These resources can provide emotional support, practical advice, and strategies for managing the challenges of Alzheimer's.

The success of Alzheimer's care also relies on effective coordination between healthcare providers, social services, and community organizations. This analysis will examine the level of collaboration among these entities in Foley. The existence of care management programs, which help patients and families navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, is a positive indicator. The availability of community-based services, such as adult day care centers and home health aides, is also essential for supporting patients and caregivers.

The analysis will also consider the challenges specific to the 36535 ZIP code. This includes the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care, such as income levels, insurance coverage, and transportation availability. The presence of underserved populations, such as those with limited English proficiency, will also be considered. Addressing these challenges is crucial for ensuring equitable access to Alzheimer's care for all residents of Foley.

Furthermore, the availability of resources for caregiver support is critical. Caregivers often bear a significant burden, both physically and emotionally. Access to respite care, support groups, and educational programs can help alleviate this burden and improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. This analysis will investigate the availability of these resources within the 36535 ZIP code.

The effectiveness of the local healthcare system in managing Alzheimer's disease is also influenced by the availability of diagnostic tools and treatment options. This includes access to advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, which can aid in the early detection of the disease. The availability of medication management services and access to clinical trials for new treatments are also important factors. This analysis will assess the availability of these resources within the Foley area.

The analysis will also consider the role of public health initiatives in promoting Alzheimer's awareness and early detection. This includes community education programs, memory screenings, and efforts to reduce risk factors for the disease. The level of collaboration between healthcare providers, public health agencies, and community organizations in these initiatives will be assessed.

In conclusion, assessing the landscape of Alzheimer's care in Foley, Alabama (ZIP Code 36535) reveals a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the level of community support all contribute to the overall quality of care. While a definitive "Alzheimer's Score" is not provided, this analysis offers a comprehensive overview of the strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement within the local healthcare system.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Foley, including physician locations, resource distribution, and population demographics, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. These maps provide a valuable tool for understanding the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and identifying areas where improvements are needed.