27243, Efland, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27243, Efland, North Carolina is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.27 percent of the residents in 27243 has some form of health insurance. 29.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.71 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 27243 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,428 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27243. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 989 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,445 health care providers accessible to residents in 27243, Efland, North Carolina.

The analysis below provides an assessment of healthcare resources in Efland, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27243), focusing on primary care and Alzheimer's-related care, while also considering broader factors like physician availability and telemedicine adoption. This is not a formal medical evaluation but an informational overview.

The first critical aspect is physician-to-patient ratios. Determining the precise ratio within a specific ZIP code requires accessing and analyzing publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the North Carolina Medical Board. Generally, a lower ratio (more physicians per capita) indicates greater accessibility. Efland, as a relatively small community, may face challenges. The availability of primary care physicians is paramount, as they often serve as the initial point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or memory concerns, facilitating early diagnosis and management.

Primary care availability in Efland is crucial. The presence of a robust primary care infrastructure is vital for addressing the needs of an aging population, which is at higher risk for Alzheimer's disease. A well-established primary care network provides a foundation for early detection, ongoing monitoring, and coordination of care. This involves not only the number of physicians but also the availability of appointment slots, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the overall patient experience.

Standout practices in the area are key. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, including specialized training in dementia management, is important. These practices may employ geriatricians, nurse practitioners specializing in geriatrics, or have established protocols for cognitive assessments. Reviewing online patient reviews, if available, can provide insights into the quality of care and the patient experience. Identifying practices that actively participate in research or clinical trials related to Alzheimer's disease can also be a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant. The ability to access healthcare services remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, can enhance convenience and reduce barriers to care. Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists, such as neurologists or geriatric psychiatrists, who may not be readily available in Efland.

Mental health resources are another critical component. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for providing comprehensive care. Access to support groups and counseling services for both patients and caregivers is also vital for managing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with the disease.

The Alzheimer's Score, in this context, is not a standardized metric but rather a qualitative assessment based on the factors described above. It is a holistic evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem's capacity to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. A high score would reflect a strong primary care infrastructure, readily available specialists, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health support. A lower score would indicate potential gaps in care, such as limited physician availability, a lack of specialized services, or insufficient mental health resources.

The analysis requires a deep dive into the local healthcare landscape. This includes identifying the number of primary care physicians, geriatricians, neurologists, and psychiatrists practicing within a reasonable radius of Efland. It also involves assessing the availability of diagnostic tools, such as cognitive assessments and imaging services, and the presence of memory care centers or assisted living facilities. Furthermore, it involves looking at the local hospitals and their ability to provide comprehensive care.

The assessment of the area also considers the availability of community resources. This includes support groups, caregiver training programs, and respite care services. These resources play a crucial role in supporting caregivers and improving the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The presence of organizations like the Alzheimer's Association or local chapters of other relevant non-profits can be a positive indicator.

The evaluation should also consider the demographics of the population. Efland's age distribution is a key factor. A higher percentage of older adults increases the demand for Alzheimer's-related care. Understanding the socioeconomic characteristics of the population can also be helpful, as it can provide insights into the accessibility of healthcare services and the potential for health disparities.

The quality of care is also a critical factor. This involves assessing the training and experience of healthcare providers, the use of evidence-based practices, and the patient experience. Practices that are committed to providing high-quality care may have received accreditation from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) or have implemented patient-centered care models.

The overall accessibility of care is also a key factor. This includes the availability of transportation services, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the affordability of healthcare services. Addressing these barriers to care can improve health outcomes and reduce health disparities.

The final Alzheimer's Score for Efland would reflect a comprehensive evaluation of these factors. It would be a nuanced assessment that takes into account the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. It is essential to remember that this is an informational overview and that individual healthcare needs vary.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Efland and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specialties, and resource availability, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a dynamic and detailed view of the area, providing valuable insights for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.