39747, Kilmichael, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39747, Kilmichael, Mississippi is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.32 percent of the residents in 39747 has some form of health insurance. 58.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.45 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 39747 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 237 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39747. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 552 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 93 health care providers accessible to residents in 39747, Kilmichael, Mississippi.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Kilmichael, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39747)

Assessing the quality of Alzheimer's care and primary care accessibility in Kilmichael, Mississippi, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," considers several key factors relevant to the well-being of individuals and families navigating the challenges of this disease. It examines physician availability, the presence of specialized resources, the adoption of innovative healthcare delivery models, and the integration of mental health support, all within the context of the local community.

The primary care physician landscape in Kilmichael, ZIP code 39747, is the foundation upon which Alzheimer's care is built. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or for family members concerned about memory issues. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of accessibility. Unfortunately, rural areas like Kilmichael often face shortages of healthcare professionals. While precise data on the current ratio in this specific ZIP code is difficult to obtain without direct access to protected patient information, publicly available data from the Mississippi State Department of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates. These sources would need to be consulted to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score, as it could lead to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to preventative care, and increased stress on existing medical staff.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves the training and experience of the physicians, their familiarity with the early signs of Alzheimer's disease, and their willingness to engage in comprehensive assessments. The "Alzheimer's Score" considers the availability of PCPs who are knowledgeable about cognitive screening tools, can differentiate between various types of dementia, and are prepared to refer patients to specialists for further evaluation. The practices of physicians who actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) programs focused on Alzheimer's and dementia care, and who demonstrate a commitment to staying abreast of the latest research and treatment options, would be viewed more favorably.

The availability of specialists is another critical factor. Neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists are essential for accurate diagnosis, management, and support. The "Alzheimer's Score" assesses the proximity and accessibility of these specialists. A high score would be awarded if Kilmichael has easy access to these specialists, either directly within the community or in nearby towns. A lack of specialists would significantly lower the score, forcing patients and families to travel long distances for necessary care, adding to the emotional and financial burden of the disease.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, overcoming geographical barriers and improving access to care. The "Alzheimer's Score" evaluates the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources would receive a higher score. This is especially important for individuals with mobility issues or those who find it difficult to travel for appointments. The availability of reliable internet access within the community also plays a role in the feasibility of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are an integral component of Alzheimer's care. The disease profoundly impacts not only the individual but also their caregivers and family members. The "Alzheimer's Score" considers the availability of mental health services, such as counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care. Practices that integrate mental health professionals into their care teams, or that have established referral pathways to local mental health providers, would be viewed more favorably. The presence of support groups specifically for caregivers is particularly valuable, providing a safe space for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support.

Standout practices within the community would significantly boost the "Alzheimer's Score." These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in Alzheimer's care, such as:

* **Proactive Screening:** Practices that routinely screen patients for cognitive decline, particularly among those over 65.
* **Care Coordination:** Practices that have dedicated care coordinators to help patients and families navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.
* **Patient Education:** Practices that provide educational materials and resources to patients and caregivers about Alzheimer's disease, its progression, and available support services.
* **Community Outreach:** Practices that actively participate in community events and educational programs related to Alzheimer's disease.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Kilmichael, Mississippi, is a composite of these factors. The lack of readily available public data on physician-to-patient ratios and the specific practices within the community makes it difficult to assign a definitive score without further investigation. However, the analysis highlights the critical areas that need to be addressed to improve Alzheimer's care accessibility and quality. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, telemedicine options, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices are all crucial. The score will likely be lower if the community lacks sufficient resources and higher if these resources are readily accessible.

For a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kilmichael and surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of Alzheimer's care accessibility.