38868, Shannon, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 38868, Shannon, Mississippi is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.04 percent of the residents in 38868 has some form of health insurance. 37.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.99 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 38868 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,743 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38868. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 880 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 893 health care providers accessible to residents in 38868, Shannon, Mississippi.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 38868 and Primary Care Availability in Shannon, Mississippi**

The challenge of providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care in a rural setting like Shannon, Mississippi, and specifically within the 38868 ZIP code, requires a nuanced understanding of local healthcare infrastructure. This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score, not as a numerical value, but as a qualitative assessment of the resources available to patients and their families facing this devastating disease. It considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

The foundation of any Alzheimer's care plan begins with accessible primary care. Shannon, Mississippi, is a small community, and the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. The area's Alzheimer's Score hinges on the ease with which residents can secure appointments with PCPs. These physicians often serve as the initial point of contact for patients exhibiting cognitive decline, providing essential screening, diagnosis, and referral to specialists. In the absence of readily available PCPs, individuals may delay seeking help, leading to a later diagnosis and potentially diminished quality of life.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a vital metric. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians serving a larger population, can strain the healthcare system. It can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially limited access to specialized care. While the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 38868 is difficult to ascertain without a comprehensive local healthcare census, the rural nature of the area suggests a potential challenge in this regard. This scarcity necessitates a proactive approach to resource allocation and collaborative care models.

Standout practices within the 38868 ZIP code and the broader Shannon area, are those that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care. These practices might include those that have physicians with specific training in geriatric medicine or cognitive disorders. They might also be those that have established protocols for early detection, diagnosis, and management of Alzheimer's disease. A practice that offers comprehensive services, including memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and patient and caregiver education, would significantly enhance the Alzheimer's Score.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial aspect of enhancing the Alzheimer's Score, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access specialized care and consultations remotely, overcoming geographical barriers. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those who live far from specialists. The availability of telemedicine services for neurology, psychiatry, and other relevant specialties would significantly improve the quality of care available to Alzheimer's patients in the 38868 ZIP code.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms and supporting both patients and their caregivers. The availability of support groups and caregiver education programs is also a crucial factor in improving the overall quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's.

The Alzheimer's Score for the 38868 ZIP code and Shannon, Mississippi, is significantly impacted by the availability of these resources. The score is not a static number, but rather a reflection of the dynamic interplay between these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare infrastructure that supports early detection, diagnosis, and management of Alzheimer's disease. A lower score indicates areas where improvements are needed to enhance the quality of care.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for the 38868 ZIP code and Shannon, Mississippi, is likely moderate. While the area may have dedicated healthcare providers, the rural setting presents challenges in terms of physician-to-patient ratios, access to specialists, and the availability of mental health resources. The adoption of telemedicine and the development of collaborative care models are crucial to improving the score and ensuring that residents have access to the care they need.

For a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 38868 ZIP code and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specializations, and the availability of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provides a visual representation of the healthcare infrastructure, allowing you to identify areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.