38921, Charleston, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 38921, Charleston, Mississippi is 3 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.28 percent of the residents in 38921 has some form of health insurance. 49.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.64 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 38921 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,210 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 38921. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 593 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 72 health care providers accessible to residents in 38921, Charleston, Mississippi.

## Alzheimer's Score: Charleston, Mississippi (ZIP Code 38921) and Primary Care Access

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, specifically primary care, and its implications for Alzheimer's care within Charleston, Mississippi (ZIP code 38921), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," aims to provide insights into the current state of resources and potential areas for improvement. The score is not a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment based on several key factors.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care rests heavily on accessible and responsive primary care. Early diagnosis, ongoing management of comorbidities, and patient education are crucial. In Charleston, assessing primary care availability involves examining physician-to-patient ratios. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide estimates of the number of primary care physicians per capita in the county where Charleston is located (Tallahatchie County). A low ratio, indicative of a shortage, presents a significant challenge. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses. Furthermore, the demographics of Charleston, including its age distribution, play a critical role. A higher proportion of older adults increases the demand for geriatric care, which is directly relevant to Alzheimer's.

Standout practices in Charleston, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care and early cognitive assessment. This might involve practices that have implemented standardized cognitive screening tools during routine check-ups, or those that have established relationships with local specialists, such as neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and their integration with other healthcare providers is another key indicator. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information, which is vital for coordinated care, especially for individuals with complex conditions like Alzheimer's. Practices with robust EHR systems are better equipped to track patient progress, manage medications, and communicate effectively with family members and other caregivers.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine can also help to bridge the gap when specialist care is limited. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing secure and user-friendly platforms for virtual visits, are likely to score higher in terms of patient-centered care.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders are common in individuals with Alzheimer's, and these conditions can significantly impact their quality of life and the ability of caregivers to provide support. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers in Charleston is essential. The presence of support groups, both for patients and caregivers, is also a critical component of a comprehensive care system. These groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support. Furthermore, the availability of memory care units or assisted living facilities specifically designed for individuals with Alzheimer's is a significant factor. These facilities offer specialized care and a structured environment that can help to manage the symptoms of the disease.

The Alzheimer's Score for Charleston, Mississippi, is influenced by the interconnectedness of these elements. A high score would reflect a robust primary care system with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, practices actively engaged in early cognitive assessment and geriatric care, widespread telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health resources, including support groups and specialized care facilities. Conversely, a low score would indicate significant challenges in these areas, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate management of the disease, and increased burdens on caregivers.

Specific examples of best practices, if they exist in Charleston, would significantly elevate the score. This includes practices that are actively involved in community outreach and education programs, raising awareness about Alzheimer's and providing resources to the public. Collaborations with local hospitals and universities, if any, can also contribute to improved care. Research initiatives, even on a small scale, can further enhance the score by contributing to the understanding of Alzheimer's and the development of new treatment strategies.

The primary care landscape in Charleston, and its impact on Alzheimer's care, is dynamic. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents have access to the best possible care. Data from the Mississippi State Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local community organizations can provide valuable insights into the prevalence of Alzheimer's and the resources available to address it.

Ultimately, improving the Alzheimer's Score for Charleston requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. Addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health services, and fostering collaboration among healthcare providers are all critical steps.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Charleston and beyond, and to identify potential areas of need and opportunity, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations available on CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician distribution, healthcare access, and other relevant factors.