06484, Shelton, Connecticut Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 06484, Shelton, Connecticut is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.17 percent of the residents in 06484 has some form of health insurance. 32.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.10 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 06484 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,453 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 49 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06484. An estimate of 22 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,281 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,067 health care providers accessible to residents in 06484, Shelton, Connecticut.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Shelton, CT (ZIP Code 06484)**

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources within Shelton, CT (ZIP code 06484) is crucial for assessing the community's preparedness to address the growing challenges of Alzheimer's disease. This analysis will consider factors influencing access to care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape in relation to the needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of accessibility. A lower ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can signal potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and receiving adequate attention. While specific, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, generally, a ratio exceeding 1:1000 for PCPs in a given area raises concerns. Researching the specific ratios within Shelton is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Connecticut Department of Public Health can provide insights. Furthermore, the age distribution of the population within 06484 is relevant. An older demographic, which is more susceptible to Alzheimer's, will place a greater demand on healthcare services, potentially exacerbating any existing access challenges.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the medical practices within Shelton are important. Are there practices that stand out in their commitment to geriatric care? Do any practices have physicians board-certified in geriatrics or neurology? Such specialization is invaluable in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's. A practice that proactively screens for cognitive decline, offers memory clinics, or collaborates with specialists in neurology and neuropsychology would score higher in our assessment. Information about these practices can be gleaned from online reviews, physician directories, and direct inquiries to local healthcare providers. The presence of dedicated memory care units within local hospitals or assisted living facilities would also significantly boost the Alzheimer's Score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially for patients facing mobility limitations or those residing in areas with limited access to in-person care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can improve access to care and streamline communication. The availability of telemedicine options can be particularly beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, who may find it challenging to travel to appointments. The Alzheimer's Score would reflect the extent to which local practices have embraced telehealth technologies, as well as the ease with which patients can access and utilize these services.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease profoundly impacts both the individual and their caregivers, often leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The presence of readily accessible mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric care, is a critical component of a supportive healthcare ecosystem. The Alzheimer's Score would evaluate the availability of these resources, including the ease of access to mental health professionals, the availability of support groups for caregivers, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices.

Another important factor is the availability of resources such as home healthcare services and respite care. These services provide crucial support to caregivers, enabling them to continue caring for their loved ones while also maintaining their own well-being. The Alzheimer's Score would consider the availability and affordability of these services within Shelton. Information on these services can be found through local community organizations, the Area Agency on Aging, and online directories.

The quality of care extends beyond the individual physician. The level of coordination between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers is crucial. Practices that have established referral networks, utilize electronic health records to share information seamlessly, and actively participate in care coordination programs would receive higher scores. This coordination is essential for ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and integrated care, particularly those with complex conditions like Alzheimer's.

The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, is not a single number but a composite assessment based on several factors. It reflects the overall preparedness of the healthcare system in Shelton to address the challenges of Alzheimer's. The score would be higher if the area has a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, a concentration of practices with specialized geriatric care, widespread adoption of telemedicine, robust mental health resources, and readily available support services for caregivers. Conversely, the score would be lower if there are significant access barriers, limited specialized care options, and a lack of support for patients and their families.

The final Alzheimer's Score would be presented with supporting data, including specific examples of practices, resources, and programs that contribute to the overall assessment. This would provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Shelton, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

To gain a visual understanding of physician locations, accessibility, and the distribution of resources within Shelton, and to compare this data with other areas, explore the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can transform this data into actionable insights.