36579, Stockton, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36579, Stockton, Alabama is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.37 percent of the residents in 36579 has some form of health insurance. 48.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.81 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 36579 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 204 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36579. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 263 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 135 health care providers accessible to residents in 36579, Stockton, Alabama.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Stockton, AL (ZIP Code 36579)**

The following analysis provides an assessment of the availability and quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease within Stockton, Alabama (ZIP code 36579), focusing on primary care physicians and their associated resources. This evaluation considers factors relevant to Alzheimer's care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape and its capacity to support those affected by this challenging disease.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. In Stockton, and indeed in many rural areas, the availability of primary care physicians can be limited. Precise physician-to-patient ratio data requires a detailed analysis of active, practicing physicians within the ZIP code, factoring in their specialties and patient load. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Area Health Resources Files (AHRF) provide estimates, but these figures may not reflect the current reality. A high patient-to-physician ratio suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and receiving adequate attention during consultations, which can be particularly problematic for Alzheimer's patients who often require frequent monitoring and adjustments to their care plans. Further investigation into the specific number of primary care physicians actively accepting new patients within the 36579 ZIP code is essential.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care provided by local primary care physicians. This includes assessing their experience with Alzheimer's patients, their commitment to ongoing education in dementia care, and their use of evidence-based practices. The presence of board-certified geriatricians or physicians with specialized training in dementia care is a positive indicator. Reviews from patients and their families, though often subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication skills, empathy, and the ability to manage the complexities of Alzheimer's. Analyzing patient feedback, when available, is a crucial step in determining the quality of care offered by individual practices.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and increasing the frequency of consultations. This is particularly beneficial for Alzheimer's patients who may experience mobility issues or cognitive difficulties. The availability of telemedicine services, including video consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, is a key factor in assessing the quality of care. Evaluating the level of telemedicine adoption requires assessing the technology infrastructure of local practices, their willingness to embrace telehealth, and the availability of patient support for using these technologies.

The availability of mental health resources is crucial for supporting Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists is essential for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and their families. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves identifying the number of mental health professionals practicing in the area, the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and their willingness to work with Alzheimer's patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is vital for providing comprehensive care.

A comprehensive Alzheimer's Score for Stockton (36579) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves gathering data from various sources, including physician directories, patient reviews, and public health agencies. The score would ideally consider the following weighted factors: physician-to-patient ratio (25%), presence of specialized dementia care training (20%), telemedicine adoption (20%), access to mental health resources (25%), and patient satisfaction (10%). Each factor would be assessed using a standardized scoring system, allowing for a comparative analysis of the healthcare landscape in Stockton.

The specific healthcare landscape in Stockton, Alabama, presents both challenges and opportunities for Alzheimer's care. The potential for limited access to primary care physicians, coupled with the need for specialized dementia expertise and mental health support, underscores the importance of a comprehensive assessment. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of robust mental health services are critical for improving the quality of care and supporting patients and their families.

The availability of primary care in Stockton must be considered in the context of the broader healthcare system. Access to specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, is essential for diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease. The presence of local hospitals with dementia care units or programs is also a positive indicator. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, respite care services, and other community resources can significantly impact the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers.

The success of Alzheimer's care in Stockton also depends on collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies. This collaboration can take the form of shared care plans, educational programs for healthcare professionals and caregivers, and advocacy efforts to improve access to resources. The development of a coordinated care system that addresses the unique needs of Alzheimer's patients is essential for ensuring that they receive the best possible care.

The analysis of healthcare resources in Stockton, Alabama, is a dynamic process. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and community resources emerging. Therefore, it is essential to regularly update the assessment to reflect the latest changes and ensure that the Alzheimer's Score remains an accurate and relevant tool for evaluating the quality of care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Stockton (36579) and surrounding areas, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the resources available to individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease.