06278, Ashford, Connecticut Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 06278, Ashford, Connecticut is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.02 percent of the residents in 06278 has some form of health insurance. 32.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.55 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 06278 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 904 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06278. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 582 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 418 health care providers accessible to residents in 06278, Ashford, Connecticut.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Ashford, CT (ZIP Code 06278)

This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians and related resources within Ashford, Connecticut (ZIP code 06278), evaluating factors pertinent to individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, focusing on the accessibility and quality of care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support. This assessment aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the local landscape for those seeking or providing care for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Ashford, a relatively small town in northeastern Connecticut, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area can impact the availability of specialized medical services and the distribution of healthcare professionals. The analysis will consider these geographical factors alongside the specific needs of Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial first step. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, a less coordinated approach to managing chronic conditions like Alzheimer's. Publicly available data from sources like the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from healthcare directories and insurance provider networks, will be used to estimate this ratio within the 06278 ZIP code. The specific number of primary care physicians actively practicing in Ashford is essential.

Furthermore, the types of primary care practices available are relevant. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or larger multi-specialty clinics? Larger clinics often have greater resources and may be better equipped to handle the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients, including access to on-site diagnostic services and care coordination. The presence of geriatric specialists or physicians with specific training in dementia care would be a significant positive factor in this analysis.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond the basic physician-to-patient ratio. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive care for Alzheimer's patients will be highlighted. This includes practices that offer:

* **Early Detection and Diagnosis:** Do they actively screen for cognitive decline? Do they utilize standardized cognitive assessments?
* **Care Coordination:** Do they have dedicated care coordinators who assist patients and families with navigating the healthcare system, accessing resources, and managing medications?
* **Patient Education and Support:** Do they provide educational materials, support groups, or referrals to relevant community organizations?
* **Family Involvement:** Do they actively involve family members in the care plan and provide support for caregivers?
* **Accessibility:** Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer flexible appointment scheduling, including evening or weekend hours?

These characteristics will be assessed through a combination of online research, patient reviews, and potentially, direct communication with practices.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas like Ashford. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices is a key factor in this assessment. Practices that offer telehealth consultations can provide convenient access to medical advice, medication management, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving patient outcomes.

The analysis will evaluate the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease of use for patients. The availability of technical support for patients who may be unfamiliar with technology is also a consideration. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for Alzheimer's patients, as it allows for regular check-ins and monitoring of their condition without the stress of travel.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Availability:**

Alzheimer's disease often presents significant mental health challenges for both patients and caregivers. The availability of mental health resources within Ashford is therefore a critical component of this assessment. This includes:

* **Psychiatrists and Psychologists:** Are there psychiatrists and psychologists practicing in the area who specialize in geriatric mental health or dementia care?
* **Counseling Services:** Are there therapists or counselors who offer individual, couples, or family therapy to address the emotional and psychological challenges associated with Alzheimer's?
* **Support Groups:** Are there support groups for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers? These groups provide a valuable opportunity for sharing experiences, receiving emotional support, and learning coping strategies.
* **Crisis Intervention Services:** Are there readily available crisis intervention services for individuals experiencing acute mental health crises?

The analysis will identify the types of mental health resources available, their accessibility, and their connection to primary care practices.

**Alzheimer's Score Conclusion:**

Based on the analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, an "Alzheimer's Score" will be assigned to Ashford, CT (ZIP code 06278). This score will reflect the overall accessibility and quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, along with a summary of the key findings and recommendations for improvement.

The score will be a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates and re-evaluations will be necessary to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Ashford, including the location of primary care practices, mental health resources, and other relevant data points, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's maps provide a user-friendly interface for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community. Visit CartoChrome today to explore the map and gain valuable insights into the healthcare resources available in Ashford, CT (ZIP code 06278).