39159, Rolling Fork, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39159, Rolling Fork, Mississippi is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 72.17 percent of the residents in 39159 has some form of health insurance. 40.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 37.28 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 39159 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 750 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39159. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 499 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 46 health care providers accessible to residents in 39159, Rolling Fork, Mississippi.

Alzheimer's Disease Score Analysis: Rolling Fork, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39159)

This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Disease Score (ADS) assessment for primary care physicians and resource availability within Rolling Fork, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39159). The ADS considers factors crucial for effective Alzheimer's care, including physician access, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the context of Alzheimer's disease management.

Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access to Care

A fundamental element of the ADS is the physician-to-patient ratio, especially regarding primary care physicians (PCPs). In a rural area like Rolling Fork, access to PCPs is often a significant challenge. The analysis considers the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, coupled with the population demographics, including the percentage of elderly residents (a key demographic for Alzheimer's). A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for PCPs, indicates potential difficulties in securing timely appointments for diagnosis, ongoing management, and care coordination. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to crucial interventions. The analysis investigates if the ratio is adequate to serve the aging population of Rolling Fork, and if it is not, what the closest alternatives are.

Standout Practices and Their Characteristics

The ADS examines the characteristics of individual primary care practices within and near 39159. The analysis looks at the size of the practice, the number of physicians, and the types of services offered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, offer comprehensive health assessments, and have experience in managing chronic conditions like Alzheimer's will receive higher scores. The availability of specialized staff, such as geriatricians or nurses with dementia care training, is also a critical factor. Furthermore, the analysis considers the practice's approach to patient education, care coordination with specialists, and support for caregivers. Practices that actively engage in these areas are better positioned to provide high-quality Alzheimer's care. The analysis will consider the practices that have a proven track record of managing the needs of Alzheimer's patients.

Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The ADS assesses the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Rolling Fork. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups receive higher scores. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens for patients and caregivers, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of patients' conditions. The analysis will determine if practices are using telemedicine to provide remote cognitive assessments, medication management, and mental health support. The availability of reliable internet access in the community is also considered, as this is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental Health Resources and Support

Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, making mental health support a crucial component of care. The ADS evaluates the availability of mental health resources in the Rolling Fork area. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. The analysis looks at the accessibility of these resources, including wait times for appointments and the availability of services covered by insurance. The analysis will consider the integration of mental health services with primary care practices, such as collaborative care models. The availability of support groups for caregivers is also a significant factor, as caregivers often experience significant stress and require emotional support.

Overall Assessment and Score

Based on the factors discussed above, an overall Alzheimer's Disease Score is assigned to the healthcare landscape in Rolling Fork. This score reflects the community's ability to provide adequate access to care, the quality of services offered, and the availability of support for patients and caregivers. The score will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, providing a valuable benchmark for future improvements. A high score indicates a strong capacity to manage Alzheimer's disease effectively, while a low score suggests areas that require attention and investment. The overall assessment will provide a snapshot of the current state of Alzheimer's care in Rolling Fork.

Specific Considerations for Rolling Fork

The analysis will take into account the unique challenges faced by Rolling Fork, such as its rural location and potential limitations in resources. The analysis will consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care, such as transportation challenges and financial constraints. The analysis will also explore the role of community organizations and non-profit groups in providing support and resources for Alzheimer's patients and their families. The analysis will determine if there are any specific initiatives or programs in place to address the needs of the Alzheimer's population in Rolling Fork.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Alzheimer's Disease Score analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Rolling Fork, Mississippi, as it relates to Alzheimer's disease care. The analysis highlights the importance of access to primary care, the characteristics of local practices, the role of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The findings can inform decisions about healthcare planning, resource allocation, and community initiatives. Understanding the local landscape is the first step toward improving the lives of those affected by Alzheimer's disease.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Rolling Fork, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data, identify gaps in care, and make informed decisions about healthcare services in your community.