02067, Sharon, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02067, Sharon, Massachusetts is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.97 percent of the residents in 02067 has some form of health insurance. 21.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.06 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 02067 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,175 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 46 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02067. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,102 health care providers accessible to residents in 02067, Sharon, Massachusetts.

Alzheimer's disease presents a formidable challenge, demanding a multifaceted approach to care. This analysis examines the landscape of Alzheimer's support within ZIP Code 02067 (Sharon, Massachusetts) focusing on primary care physician availability and the resources available to address the disease. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with primary care physicians (PCPs). They are frequently the first point of contact for patients exhibiting cognitive decline. In Sharon, assessing the availability of PCPs is critical. Information on the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires detailed data analysis, including the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the population they serve. Publicly available data from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine can provide a starting point for identifying licensed physicians. However, this data does not always reflect the number of patients each physician actively sees or the availability of appointments for new patients.

The "Alzheimer's Score" will be affected by the accessibility of PCPs. A high ratio of patients per physician could indicate potential difficulties in timely diagnosis and ongoing management. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater access to care. The presence of practices accepting new patients is also crucial. Practices actively recruiting new patients demonstrate a commitment to serving the community.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care is paramount. This includes the expertise of the PCPs in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. The "Alzheimer's Score" will consider the training and experience of the physicians. Are they up-to-date on the latest diagnostic criteria and treatment options? Do they have experience working with patients with cognitive impairment? Information on physician specializations and certifications can be obtained from online physician directories and practice websites.

Standout practices in Sharon would demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive Alzheimer's care. This includes not only diagnosis and treatment but also support for patients and their families. These practices might offer memory clinics, where patients can undergo cognitive assessments and receive specialized care. They might also have dedicated staff trained in dementia care, such as nurses or social workers. The "Alzheimer's Score" will give higher ratings to practices that have integrated these services.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. The "Alzheimer's Score" will assess the extent to which PCPs in Sharon utilize telemedicine for patient consultations, medication management, and monitoring. Telemedicine can also facilitate communication between patients, caregivers, and specialists.

Mental health resources are essential for supporting both patients with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The disease can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and behavioral changes. The "Alzheimer's Score" will evaluate the availability of mental health services in Sharon, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. This includes assessing the proximity of mental health clinics, the availability of appointments, and the acceptance of insurance.

The presence of support groups and educational programs for caregivers is also critical. Caregivers often face immense challenges, including emotional exhaustion and financial strain. Support groups provide a safe space for caregivers to share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and connect with others facing similar challenges. The "Alzheimer's Score" will consider the availability of these resources in Sharon, including the frequency of meetings, the topics covered, and the accessibility of the programs.

The "Alzheimer's Score" will also consider the presence of community resources, such as adult day care centers and assisted living facilities. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for patients with Alzheimer's, allowing caregivers to take a break and maintain their own well-being. The "Alzheimer's Score" will assess the number of these facilities in Sharon, their proximity to residential areas, and their capacity to serve the needs of the community.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" will be a composite measure, reflecting the availability, quality, and accessibility of Alzheimer's care resources in Sharon. The score will be based on a variety of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, physician expertise, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support services. The higher the score, the better the healthcare ecosystem is equipped to support patients with Alzheimer's and their families.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the Alzheimer's care landscape in Sharon, Massachusetts. The "Alzheimer's Score" is a tool for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. By identifying areas for improvement, we can work towards creating a more supportive and accessible environment for patients with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sharon, including the locations of physicians, mental health resources, and community support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that visualize geographical data, enabling you to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.