Health Scores Near 42327, Calhoun, Kentucky
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 42327, Calhoun, Kentucky is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 94.69 percent of the residents in 42327 has some form of health insurance. 31.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.16 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 42327 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,250 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 42327. An estimate of 65 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 599 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,471 health care providers accessible to residents in 42327, Calhoun, Kentucky.
Health Scores in 42327, Calhoun, Kentucky
| Alzheimers Score | 50 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 70 |
| Provider Score | 61 |
| Hospital Score | 26 |
| Travel Score | 36 |
| 42327 | Calhoun | Kentucky | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Calhoun, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42327)
This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment for primary care physicians and related resources within Calhoun, Kentucky (ZIP Code 42327), focusing on factors crucial for Alzheimer's care and support. The goal is to evaluate the preparedness of the local healthcare landscape for the increasing prevalence of this devastating disease. We will examine primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.
Calhoun, a small community in McLean County, faces unique challenges in providing comprehensive healthcare services, particularly concerning specialized care for conditions like Alzheimer's. The limited population base often translates to fewer healthcare providers and potentially constrained access to specialized resources. The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, will be a relative measure, considering the specific context of this rural setting.
**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**
Assessing primary care availability is the foundational step. The number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 42327 ZIP code is a critical indicator. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards will be consulted to determine the current number of practicing PCPs. This number will be juxtaposed against the population of Calhoun to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to care. However, the rural nature of Calhoun may inherently lead to a higher ratio compared to urban areas.
Furthermore, the availability of PCPs accepting new patients is a crucial factor. Even if the overall physician-to-patient ratio appears favorable, limited availability for new patients can severely restrict access, especially for individuals newly diagnosed with Alzheimer's or seeking initial evaluations. This information will be gathered through direct calls to local practices and online searches, though it is frequently subject to change.
**Standout Practices and Specialized Care:**
Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care is essential. This involves looking for practices that actively participate in memory screenings, offer cognitive assessments, and provide patient education resources. Practices employing geriatric specialists or those with experience in dementia care will receive a higher score. The presence of dedicated memory clinics or specialized programs within primary care practices is a significant advantage. Examining online reviews and patient testimonials can provide insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.
Furthermore, the presence of specialists, such as neurologists or geriatric psychiatrists, within a reasonable travel distance is crucial. The absence of such specialists necessitates patients traveling to larger cities like Owensboro or Bowling Green for specialized diagnosis and treatment, placing a burden on patients and their families. The availability of these specialists, even if located outside the immediate ZIP code, will be considered in the overall score.
**Telemedicine Adoption:**
Telemedicine holds significant potential for improving access to care, particularly in rural areas like Calhoun. The adoption of telemedicine by local primary care practices and specialists is a key factor. Practices offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.
The availability of telehealth services for mental health support is especially relevant. Access to therapists and psychiatrists specializing in dementia care through telehealth can be a vital resource for patients and their caregivers. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the extent to which local practices and specialists have embraced telemedicine and the specific services offered.
**Mental Health Resources:**
The availability of mental health resources is critical for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, requiring access to mental health professionals. The presence of local therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists specializing in geriatrics or dementia care is a positive indicator.
Furthermore, support groups for both patients and caregivers are invaluable. These groups provide emotional support, education, and a sense of community. The availability of local support groups, either in-person or virtual, will be assessed. The presence of organizations like the Alzheimer's Association or local chapters providing educational programs and resources also contributes positively to the score. The availability of respite care services, providing temporary relief for caregivers, will also be considered.
**Overall Alzheimer's Score:**
The Alzheimer's Score for Calhoun (42327) will be a composite score, reflecting the factors discussed above. It will be a relative assessment, considering the context of a rural community. The score will reflect the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. A higher score indicates better access to care, more resources, and a greater commitment to addressing the challenges of this disease. The score will be presented as a qualitative assessment (e.g., "Poor," "Fair," "Good," "Excellent") along with a summary of the key strengths and weaknesses.
**Conclusion:**
The healthcare landscape in Calhoun, Kentucky, presents both challenges and opportunities in the fight against Alzheimer's. While the rural setting may limit the availability of specialized resources, the commitment of local practices to providing quality care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support can significantly impact the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.
For a visual representation of healthcare access, physician locations, and resource availability in Calhoun and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping technology can help you visualize healthcare data and identify areas with the greatest need.
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