36879, Waverly, Alabama Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36879, Waverly, Alabama is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.28 percent of the residents in 36879 has some form of health insurance. 16.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.46 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 36879 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 720 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36879. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 353 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,011 health care providers accessible to residents in 36879, Waverly, Alabama.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Waverly, Alabama (ZIP Code 36879)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly for Alzheimer's patients, within Waverly, Alabama (ZIP code 36879), requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll assess the landscape of primary care physicians, their practices, and the resources available to support patients and their families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This analysis will provide an "Alzheimer's Score" perspective, considering factors beyond mere physician numbers.

The initial challenge lies in defining "Alzheimer's Score." It’s not a single, quantifiable metric. Instead, it’s a composite assessment considering several key elements. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial for managing Alzheimer's.

Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within Waverly requires diligent research. Publicly available data, such as the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates. However, pinpointing the exact number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 36879 ZIP code, and their patient loads, demands more granular data. A low physician-to-patient ratio suggests better access to care, which is critical for individuals with Alzheimer's, who often require frequent check-ups and monitoring.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Are physicians in Waverly equipped with the knowledge and resources to diagnose and manage Alzheimer's? This involves examining their training, experience, and access to diagnostic tools like cognitive assessments and brain imaging. Furthermore, the presence of specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, is crucial. While these specialists might not be directly located within Waverly, their accessibility through referral networks significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive care for Alzheimer's patients. This includes offering memory clinics, providing educational resources for patients and families, and actively participating in clinical trials. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, emphasizing communication, empathy, and personalized treatment plans, would also score higher. Such practices understand that Alzheimer's management extends beyond medication and requires a holistic approach.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers significant benefits for Alzheimer's patients, particularly those with mobility issues or who live in rural areas. It enables remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, contribute positively to the Alzheimer's Score.

Mental health resources are indispensable. Alzheimer's disease often co-exists with depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for providing comprehensive care. Practices that collaborate with mental health providers, offering integrated care or facilitating referrals, demonstrate a commitment to addressing the emotional and psychological needs of Alzheimer's patients and their families.

The presence of support groups and community resources also impacts the Alzheimer's Score. These resources provide a vital network for patients and caregivers, offering emotional support, practical advice, and opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges. Community organizations that offer caregiver training, respite care, and educational programs contribute to a more supportive environment for those affected by Alzheimer's.

Specific examples of practices and resources within Waverly are difficult to pinpoint without direct access to local data. However, the assessment framework remains consistent. The Alzheimer's Score for Waverly is determined by a combination of these factors: physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource integration, and the presence of community support.

To improve the Alzheimer's Score, Waverly could focus on several key areas. Attracting more primary care physicians, particularly those with experience in geriatric care, would be beneficial. Encouraging existing practices to adopt telemedicine and integrate mental health services would also be crucial. Furthermore, fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and support groups would create a more comprehensive and supportive environment for Alzheimer's patients and their families.

The success of these efforts hinges on access to accurate and up-to-date data. Mapping the healthcare landscape within Waverly, identifying gaps in care, and visualizing the distribution of resources are essential steps. This is where tools like CartoChrome maps can prove invaluable. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize and analyze healthcare data, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions and prioritize resources effectively.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare ecosystem that is responsive to the needs of Alzheimer's patients and their families. This requires a commitment to quality care, a focus on patient-centered services, and a willingness to embrace innovative solutions. By carefully considering these factors, Waverly can strive to improve its Alzheimer's Score and provide the best possible care for those affected by this devastating disease.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Waverly and visualize the distribution of resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping capabilities can provide valuable insights and support informed decision-making.