39507, Gulfport, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39507, Gulfport, Mississippi is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.68 percent of the residents in 39507 has some form of health insurance. 35.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.26 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 39507 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,072 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39507. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,929 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,424 health care providers accessible to residents in 39507, Gulfport, Mississippi.

The analysis below focuses on assessing the Alzheimer's care landscape within ZIP code 39507 (Gulfport, Mississippi) and the related availability of primary care services. This assessment considers several key factors influencing the quality and accessibility of care for individuals at risk of or living with Alzheimer's disease. This is not a ranking of doctors, but rather an assessment of the overall environment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. In a region with a high concentration of elderly residents, as is often the case with areas along the Gulf Coast, the demand for primary care physicians and specialists, including neurologists and geriatricians, is significant. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment. Publicly available data on physician distribution, such as that provided by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can be used to estimate these ratios. However, the specific ratios within ZIP code 39507 require a deeper dive into local healthcare provider directories and patient population demographics.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective Alzheimer's care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. They play a crucial role in early detection, providing referrals to specialists, and coordinating overall care. The presence of a robust network of PCPs is essential for timely interventions and management of the disease. Assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of PCPs practicing in the area, their accepting new patients, and the types of insurance they accept. Factors like the proximity of clinics to residential areas and the availability of transportation options also significantly impact access.

Standout practices often differentiate themselves through their commitment to providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. These practices might employ specialized staff, such as nurses or social workers, trained in dementia care. They may offer memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and support services for patients and their families. These practices often collaborate with local organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association, to provide educational resources and support groups. Identifying these standout practices requires researching local healthcare provider websites, reading patient reviews, and contacting local community organizations.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in ZIP code 39507 can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with Alzheimer's. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves investigating which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the ease of use of the telemedicine platforms.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves examining the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer, and their willingness to accept new patients. Collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, and mental health providers is essential for providing comprehensive care.

Specific to ZIP code 39507, the presence of a major hospital system, such as Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, is a positive indicator. Large hospital systems often have more resources and specialized services, including neurology departments and geriatric care units. However, the availability of these resources within the hospital system and their accessibility to residents of ZIP code 39507 requires further investigation. The hospital's collaboration with local primary care practices and community organizations is also a crucial factor.

The role of community support is also vital. Alzheimer's care extends beyond medical treatment and includes support for caregivers, access to respite care services, and social activities for individuals with the disease. Assessing the availability of community support involves identifying local organizations that provide these services, such as the Alzheimer's Association, senior centers, and faith-based organizations. The coordination between healthcare providers and these community resources is essential for providing holistic care.

Assessing the overall environment in ZIP code 39507 involves a multi-faceted approach. This includes a review of publicly available data, such as physician directories and demographic information. It also involves contacting local healthcare providers and community organizations to gather information about their services and resources. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience.

The analysis should also consider the presence of any specific programs or initiatives aimed at improving Alzheimer's care in the area. This could include memory clinics, specialized training programs for healthcare providers, or community-based support groups. The availability of these programs can significantly impact the quality and accessibility of care.

The success of Alzheimer's care depends on a coordinated effort between healthcare providers, community organizations, and individuals and their families. The assessment of ZIP code 39507 should identify areas of strength and weakness and provide recommendations for improvement. This could include increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding access to telemedicine services, and strengthening the collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources and demographics in Gulfport, and to identify potential gaps in care, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their detailed mapping tools can help you visualize physician locations, patient populations, and other relevant data points, providing a clearer understanding of the Alzheimer's care landscape in your area.