27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.74 percent of the residents in 27009 has some form of health insurance. 39.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.64 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 27009 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,063 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27009. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 602 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 27009, Belews Creek, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Belews Creek, NC (ZIP Code 27009)

Analyzing the availability of resources and healthcare professionals for Alzheimer's patients in Belews Creek, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27009) requires a multifaceted approach. We'll examine primary care physician (PCP) availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. This analysis will provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, reflecting the overall support system available for individuals and families navigating this challenging disease.

The foundation of care for Alzheimer's patients often rests on the shoulders of primary care physicians. Their role in early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing management is critical. In Belews Creek, the availability of PCPs is a key indicator. Determining the exact number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code is the first step. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the North Carolina Medical Board and healthcare directories, can provide this data. Once the number of PCPs is established, it's essential to determine the patient-to-physician ratio. This ratio indicates the potential workload and accessibility of each physician. A higher ratio might suggest longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care. This can be assessed through various means. Are any local practices designated as "Memory Care Centers" or have specialized programs for cognitive assessment and management? Do they actively participate in clinical trials related to Alzheimer's disease? Do these practices have staff specifically trained in dementia care, such as certified dementia practitioners or geriatric specialists? These factors contribute to a higher "Alzheimer's Score" for the area.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is another crucial element. Do PCPs in Belews Creek offer virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, or medication management? The availability of telemedicine can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients and their caregivers.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease significantly impacts the emotional well-being of both patients and their families. Therefore, the presence and accessibility of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, are essential. Are there mental health clinics, counseling services, or support groups within or near Belews Creek? Access to these resources can help manage the behavioral and emotional challenges associated with Alzheimer's.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Belews Creek, NC (27009) would be a composite metric based on the factors discussed. A high score would indicate a robust support system, with readily available PCPs, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health resources. A lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive Alzheimer's care.

Specific examples are necessary to illustrate the application of this analysis. Let's assume the data reveals three practicing PCPs within the ZIP code. If the population of Belews Creek is 2,000, the physician-to-patient ratio is approximately 667:1. This ratio might be considered high, potentially impacting appointment availability. Further research is needed to determine if any of these PCPs have a specific interest or training in geriatric medicine or dementia care.

Consider a hypothetical scenario where one of the local practices has a dedicated memory care program, offering cognitive assessments and care coordination. This practice would significantly boost the "Alzheimer's Score." Conversely, if no local practices offer telemedicine, the score would be negatively affected. The presence of a local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association or a dedicated support group would positively impact the score, as would the availability of mental health services.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption also requires specificity. Do the local PCPs utilize secure video conferencing platforms for remote consultations? Do they offer remote monitoring capabilities for patients with memory issues? The answers to these questions directly influence the "Alzheimer's Score."

The availability of mental health resources is equally critical. Are there licensed therapists specializing in geriatric mental health or dementia care? Are there support groups for caregivers? The presence and accessibility of these resources are vital for the overall well-being of patients and their families.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a static number; it's a dynamic reflection of the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular assessments are necessary to monitor changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of support services. This ongoing evaluation ensures that the community remains responsive to the needs of individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease.

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the Alzheimer's care infrastructure in Belews Creek, NC (27009). The specific data points, such as physician counts, patient-to-physician ratios, and the availability of specialized services, will ultimately determine the final "Alzheimer's Score." This score serves as a valuable tool for individuals, families, and healthcare providers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local support system and identify areas for improvement.

For a comprehensive, geographically-informed understanding of healthcare resources in Belews Creek and beyond, we encourage you to explore the power of visual data. **Visit CartoChrome maps to discover how spatial analysis can illuminate healthcare access and support services in your community.**