27217, Burlington, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27217, Burlington, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.06 percent of the residents in 27217 has some form of health insurance. 41.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.61 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 27217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,373 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,466 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,762 health care providers accessible to residents in 27217, Burlington, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Burlington, NC (ZIP Code 27217)

This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment for primary care physicians within the 27217 ZIP code of Burlington, North Carolina, considering factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease diagnosis, management, and patient support. We will evaluate the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to paint a picture of the local healthcare landscape’s preparedness for an aging population and the specific challenges posed by Alzheimer’s disease.

The foundation of any effective Alzheimer's care plan rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Burlington, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial starting point. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline understanding. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally indicates greater access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau can be combined to estimate this ratio within the 27217 ZIP code. This data will reveal whether the area is adequately staffed to handle the current and projected needs of its population, particularly the elderly, who are at higher risk for Alzheimer's.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is important. Are practices clustered in certain areas, potentially creating access disparities for residents in other parts of Burlington? The geographic distribution of these practices should be examined. This includes considering the proximity of practices to assisted living facilities, retirement communities, and areas with a higher concentration of elderly residents. The availability of transportation options, such as public transit and ride-sharing services, is also a factor in determining access to care.

Identifying standout practices within the 27217 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This involves looking beyond basic metrics and assessing the specific services offered. Are practices equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, such as cognitive assessments, to screen for Alzheimer's? Do they have established protocols for referring patients to neurologists or memory care specialists? Furthermore, the quality of care is critical. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, including clear communication, patient education, and family support, should be recognized. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical aspect of the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. It can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and ongoing monitoring. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management, are better positioned to support Alzheimer's patients. The availability of telehealth services can also expand access to specialists who may not be readily available locally.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and supporting both patients and their caregivers. Assessing the availability of mental health services within the 27217 ZIP code involves examining the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times).

Caregiver support is a vital component of any Alzheimer's care plan. Caregivers often face significant emotional, physical, and financial burdens. The availability of support groups, respite care services, and educational resources can make a significant difference in their well-being and ability to provide care. The Alzheimer's Score analysis should consider the presence of local support organizations, the availability of caregiver training programs, and the accessibility of these resources to residents of the 27217 ZIP code.

The integration of these factors into an Alzheimer's Score provides a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape's preparedness. The score should not be a static number, but rather a dynamic evaluation that reflects the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers and community organizations. Regular updates are essential to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that the needs of Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers are being met. The analysis should also consider the potential impact of future trends, such as the aging population and advances in Alzheimer's research and treatment.

This analysis is intended to be a starting point for a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in Burlington, NC (ZIP Code 27217). It highlights the key factors that contribute to effective Alzheimer's care. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources are all essential components. By assessing these factors, we can gain a more complete picture of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize the geographic distribution of primary care practices, mental health resources, and other relevant data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to easily identify areas with high or low access to care. This visual approach facilitates a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment.