02532, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02532, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.81 percent of the residents in 02532 has some form of health insurance. 46.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.18 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 02532 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,058 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02532. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,981 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 670 health care providers accessible to residents in 02532, Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02532 and Primary Care Availability in Buzzards Bay**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 02532, encompassing Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, requires a multi-faceted approach. Our focus centers on the availability of primary care physicians, the resources dedicated to Alzheimer's disease management, and the overall accessibility of care for a population potentially vulnerable to cognitive decline. This analysis aims to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering key factors impacting care quality and access.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, can significantly hinder timely diagnosis and ongoing care for Alzheimer's patients. Data from various sources, including the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine and local healthcare networks, is essential to determine the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code. This figure must then be compared to the estimated population of Buzzards Bay to calculate the ratio. A higher ratio, showing more doctors per capita, generally suggests better access to care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the age and experience of the physicians are relevant. Experienced physicians are often more familiar with the complexities of Alzheimer's and related dementias. They may have developed strong diagnostic skills and established referral networks to specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians. Furthermore, the presence of board-certified geriatricians within the area is a strong indicator of specialized care availability.

Standout practices within Buzzards Bay are those demonstrating a commitment to Alzheimer's care. This includes practices that offer comprehensive cognitive assessments, implement early detection programs, and actively participate in community outreach initiatives. Practices that integrate memory care specialists, such as neuropsychologists or geriatric social workers, into their teams provide a holistic approach to patient management. These practices often foster strong relationships with local support groups, such as the Alzheimer's Association, and provide educational resources for patients and their families.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely, offers significant advantages for Alzheimer's patients. It can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be challenging for patients with cognitive impairments. Telemedicine can also expand access to specialists who may not be readily available in the immediate area. The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care, neurology, and mental health services is an important element in our "Alzheimer's Score" assessment.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are common among individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors within the community is crucial. Access to these professionals can help manage behavioral symptoms, provide emotional support, and improve the overall quality of life for both patients and their families. The presence of support groups and educational programs specifically designed for caregivers is another positive indicator.

The availability of specialized services, such as memory care clinics or geriatric assessment centers, is a significant factor in our scoring. These facilities often offer comprehensive evaluations, treatment planning, and ongoing support for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. The presence of these specialized resources indicates a higher level of commitment to Alzheimer's care within the community.

Assessing the affordability of care is another important consideration. The cost of healthcare, including physician visits, medications, and specialized services, can be a significant barrier to access. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is a critical factor. Information on the availability of financial assistance programs for those who qualify is also relevant.

The "Alzheimer's Score" should also consider the level of community awareness and support. This includes the presence of educational programs for the public, support groups for caregivers, and partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations. A community that actively promotes awareness and provides support for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families is likely to provide a higher quality of care.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimer's Score" for doctors in ZIP code 02532 and primary care availability in Buzzards Bay is a complex metric. It depends on a multitude of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, physician experience, the presence of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the affordability of care. A comprehensive assessment requires gathering data from multiple sources, including healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Buzzards Bay and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, enabling a more informed assessment of care access and availability.