Health Scores Near 27104, Winston Salem, North Carolina
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27104, Winston Salem, North Carolina is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 27104 has some form of health insurance. 26.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.95 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 27104 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 5,954 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27104. An estimate of 8 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,279 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,370 health care providers accessible to residents in 27104, Winston Salem, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 27104, Winston Salem, North Carolina
| Alzheimers Score | 79 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 43 |
| Provider Score | 79 |
| Hospital Score | 42 |
| Travel Score | 72 |
| 27104 | Winston Salem | North Carolina | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Winston-Salem, NC (ZIP Code 27104)
This analysis evaluates the landscape of Alzheimer's care within Winston-Salem, North Carolina, specifically focusing on the 27104 ZIP code and the broader context of primary care availability. We aim to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support for individuals and families affected by this devastating disease. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources.
The 27104 ZIP code, like many areas, likely faces challenges in providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. The prevalence of the disease is increasing, and the demand for specialized services often outstrips the available resources. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are typically the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline, making their capacity and expertise critical. The "Alzheimer's Score" here is not a single number, but a composite view of the strengths and weaknesses within the system.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**
A fundamental aspect of the "Alzheimer's Score" is the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly concerning PCPs and neurologists within the 27104 area and the broader Winston-Salem region. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced access to ongoing care. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board and other sources would be essential to accurately calculate these ratios. The ideal scenario involves a sufficient number of PCPs readily accessible to patients for initial screenings and referrals.
Primary care availability is a crucial component. Are there enough PCPs accepting new patients within the 27104 ZIP code? What are the average wait times for appointments? Are there any primary care deserts, where access to medical care is significantly limited? Addressing these questions is vital to understanding the accessibility of initial care.
**Standout Practices and Specialized Care:**
Identifying practices that excel in Alzheimer's care significantly boosts the "Alzheimer's Score." This includes practices with neurologists specializing in cognitive disorders, geriatricians with expertise in dementia, and memory care clinics offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations. The presence of dedicated memory care units within hospitals, like those affiliated with Novant Health or Wake Forest Baptist Health, would be a significant positive factor.
Standout practices often employ a multidisciplinary approach, involving physicians, nurses, social workers, and therapists. They may offer support groups for patients and caregivers, educational programs, and care coordination services. The availability of these services elevates the quality of care and improves the overall "Alzheimer's Score."
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**
Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in Alzheimer's care, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The adoption rate of telemedicine services by local practices significantly impacts the "Alzheimer's Score." Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be challenging for patients with cognitive impairments and their caregivers.
The ability to connect patients with specialists remotely, such as neurologists or geriatric psychiatrists, expands access to expertise. The availability of virtual support groups and educational resources further enhances the value of telemedicine. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it seamlessly into their care models receive a higher score.
**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems:**
Alzheimer's disease profoundly impacts mental health, both for patients and their caregivers. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial for managing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with the disease.
The "Alzheimer's Score" is significantly influenced by the presence of mental health services specializing in dementia care. Are there psychiatrists or psychologists experienced in diagnosing and treating behavioral symptoms associated with Alzheimer's? Are there support groups for caregivers to help them cope with the emotional and practical demands of caregiving? The availability of respite care services, which provide temporary relief for caregivers, is another important factor.
**Challenges and Considerations:**
While this analysis aims to provide a comprehensive assessment, several challenges exist. Data availability can be limited, and the landscape of healthcare providers can change rapidly. Furthermore, the "Alzheimer's Score" is a subjective evaluation based on available information.
The cost of care, including diagnostic testing, medications, and specialized services, is a significant concern. The availability of financial assistance programs and resources for patients and families is a critical factor in assessing the accessibility of care.
**Conclusion:**
The "Alzheimer's Score" for the 27104 ZIP code and the broader Winston-Salem area is likely a mixed bag. While the presence of major healthcare systems like Novant Health and Wake Forest Baptist Health suggests a foundation for good care, challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios, access to specialized services, and mental health resources may exist. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of support programs will significantly influence the overall quality of care.
**Call to Action:**
Want to visualize the healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in the Winston-Salem area? Explore the power of spatial data with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize physician locations, primary care availability, and the distribution of mental health resources. Gain a clearer picture of the challenges and opportunities in Alzheimer's care and empower yourself with the knowledge to advocate for better care in your community.
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