31537, Folkston, Georgia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 31537, Folkston, Georgia is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.15 percent of the residents in 31537 has some form of health insurance. 38.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.48 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 31537 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,791 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31537. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,585 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 184 health care providers accessible to residents in 31537, Folkston, Georgia.

The following analysis assesses healthcare accessibility and quality in Folkston, Georgia, focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 31537, with a particular emphasis on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care and support. This analysis, framed as an “Alzheimer's Score,” considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally suggests better access to care. Unfortunately, rural areas like Folkston often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention. Precise data on the current physician-to-patient ratio specifically for PCPs in 31537 is difficult to obtain without proprietary databases. However, publicly available information suggests that Charlton County, where Folkston is located, experiences a shortage of healthcare professionals compared to more urban areas. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially limit the ability of patients, especially those with complex needs like Alzheimer's, to receive timely and consistent care.

Evaluating individual practices requires a nuanced approach. Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, particularly for geriatric populations. This includes features like: extended appointment times to accommodate complex medical histories and cognitive assessments; staff training in dementia care; and a welcoming environment for patients with cognitive impairments. Additionally, practices that actively collaborate with specialists, such as neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists, are highly valuable. Without specific practice-level data, it is difficult to identify standout practices within 31537. However, research through healthcare directories and online reviews, if available, can provide some insights. Look for practices that emphasize geriatric care, offer memory screenings, and have a reputation for compassionate and understanding staff.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly for rural communities. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, medication management, and even some forms of therapy from the comfort of their homes. For individuals with Alzheimer's, telemedicine can be especially beneficial, reducing the stress of travel and providing support to caregivers. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires investigating the availability of telehealth services offered by local PCPs. This involves checking practice websites, contacting offices directly, and exploring local healthcare networks to determine the extent of telehealth integration.

The availability of mental health resources is critical for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. Alzheimer's often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Caregivers also experience significant stress and emotional strain. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential. The analysis needs to consider the availability of these professionals in or near 31537. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, their acceptance of insurance, and the availability of support groups and other resources for both patients and caregivers.

Another important aspect is the presence of memory care specialists. These professionals are specifically trained to diagnose and manage cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's. Their availability in the local area is a key factor in the Alzheimer's Score. The analysis should include a search for neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists who focus on memory care. The proximity of these specialists and the ease of referral from PCPs are essential elements of the healthcare system.

The Alzheimer's Score for Folkston, therefore, would be negatively impacted by the physician shortage and the potential lack of specialized geriatric care. The score would be positively influenced by practices that embrace telemedicine and actively integrate mental health services. The presence of memory care specialists, although likely limited in a rural setting, would significantly improve the score.

The overall healthcare landscape in Folkston presents both challenges and opportunities for Alzheimer's care. The limited availability of PCPs and specialists necessitates creative solutions, such as expanding telemedicine services and strengthening collaborations between primary care providers and mental health professionals.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 31537, including the location of physicians, specialists, and mental health resources, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that allow you to visualize healthcare resources, assess accessibility, and gain valuable insights into the availability of care in the Folkston area.