27262, High Point, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27262, High Point, North Carolina is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.19 percent of the residents in 27262 has some form of health insurance. 35.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.06 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 27262 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,804 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27262. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,907 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,988 health care providers accessible to residents in 27262, High Point, North Carolina.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: High Point, NC (ZIP Code 27262)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care services in High Point, North Carolina (ZIP code 27262), with a particular focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Alzheimers Score" based on these parameters.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for conditions like Alzheimer's. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are essential to accurately determine this ratio within the 27262 ZIP code. While precise figures fluctuate, the availability of primary care physicians in High Point, and specifically within the 27262 ZIP code, must be compared to the population size. Areas with a lower ratio, especially those with a significant elderly population, may face challenges in providing timely and comprehensive care for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the distribution of these physicians is also important. Are they concentrated in specific areas of the ZIP code, potentially leaving other areas underserved? Are there enough physicians accepting new patients, and specifically, patients covered by Medicare and Medicaid, which are crucial for many individuals with Alzheimer's? These factors significantly impact access to care and the ability of patients and their caregivers to receive the support they need.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices within the 27262 ZIP code requires evaluating several criteria. Practices demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care, including specialized training for physicians and staff in dementia management, are particularly valuable. This includes familiarity with the diagnostic process, the latest treatment options, and the unique needs of patients and their families. Practices that offer memory clinics, or partner with memory care specialists, are also highly desirable.

Furthermore, practices that prioritize patient-centered care, incorporating elements like comprehensive assessments, care coordination, and support groups, are crucial. Reviews from patients and caregivers, as well as accreditations from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), can provide valuable insights into the quality of care offered by different practices. The ability to provide comprehensive care, including access to specialists like neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists, is also a key factor in assessing a practice's suitability for Alzheimer's patients.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role:**

Telemedicine offers significant potential to improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in the 27262 ZIP code is a crucial factor in the "Alzheimers Score." Practices utilizing telehealth for routine check-ups, medication management, and even some cognitive assessments can significantly enhance the convenience and accessibility of care for Alzheimer's patients.

The availability of telehealth services also allows for greater flexibility in scheduling appointments and reduces the burden on caregivers who may have difficulty transporting patients to in-person visits. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, the comfort level of both patients and physicians with technology, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care plan. Practices that have successfully integrated telehealth into their workflow, providing clear instructions and technical support to patients, will score higher in this analysis.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance:**

Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, making access to mental health resources essential. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric care and dementia is a critical component of the "Alzheimers Score." These professionals can provide crucial support to patients and their caregivers, addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbances.

The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and educational programs specifically tailored to Alzheimer's patients and their families is also highly valuable. Collaboration between primary care practices and mental health providers is crucial to ensure seamless care coordination and comprehensive support. Practices that actively refer patients to mental health services and work collaboratively with these providers will be viewed favorably in this analysis. The availability of respite care services, which provide temporary relief for caregivers, is another important factor in assessing the overall support system for Alzheimer's patients.

**The "Alzheimers Score" and Conclusion:**

The "Alzheimers Score" for primary care availability in the 27262 ZIP code will be a composite measure based on the factors discussed above. It will consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with geriatric expertise, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score will indicate a more favorable environment for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers, with better access to care, comprehensive support, and a higher likelihood of receiving timely and effective treatment. This score will be an evolving assessment, requiring continuous monitoring and updates as healthcare services and resources change within the community.

Understanding the landscape of healthcare resources in High Point is crucial for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care. To gain a deeper, more visual understanding of the distribution of physicians, the location of specialized clinics, and the availability of mental health resources within the 27262 ZIP code, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling you to make informed decisions about your care options.