27281, Jackson Springs, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27281, Jackson Springs, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.91 percent of the residents in 27281 has some form of health insurance. 37.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.27 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 27281 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 798 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27281. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 866 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 389 health care providers accessible to residents in 27281, Jackson Springs, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Jackson Springs, NC (ZIP Code 27281)

This analysis evaluates the availability of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 27281, focusing on primary care and mental health support, and their potential impact on the quality of life for individuals and families affected by this condition. This assessment is not a definitive ranking, but rather a snapshot based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends.

The primary challenge in Jackson Springs, as with many rural areas, is likely the physician-to-patient ratio. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. PCPs are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or exhibiting early symptoms of Alzheimer's. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative care, and increased strain on existing healthcare providers. It is crucial to assess the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and compare it to the overall population. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into primary care shortage areas.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the quality of care is paramount. This includes the experience and training of the PCPs in geriatric care and cognitive assessment. Are there physicians with specific certifications or specializations in geriatrics or neurology within the area? Do they actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) related to Alzheimer's and dementia? These factors significantly influence a physician's ability to accurately diagnose and manage the disease.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care for patients with Alzheimer's. This includes a proactive approach to cognitive screening, early intervention strategies, and a strong emphasis on patient and caregiver support. Practices that offer memory clinics, dedicated dementia care coordinators, or partnerships with local support groups deserve recognition. Information about specific practices and their services can often be found through online reviews, local hospital websites, and community health directories.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, especially in rural areas where patients may face significant travel distances to access specialized care. The availability of virtual consultations with neurologists, geriatricians, and mental health professionals can improve access to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. Practices that offer telemedicine services, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, are likely to provide a higher level of care for Alzheimer's patients.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to the well-being of both Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. The emotional and psychological toll of the disease can be immense. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors is vital for managing symptoms like depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and respite care services within the community significantly impacts the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's.

The availability of specialized care facilities, such as assisted living facilities with memory care units and skilled nursing facilities with dementia-specific programs, is also a key consideration. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's, offering specialized care and supervision. The quality of these facilities, as measured by factors like staff training, activity programs, and resident-to-staff ratios, is crucial.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as adult day care centers, home healthcare services, and transportation assistance, plays a significant role in supporting patients and their caregivers. These resources can help individuals remain in their homes longer, reducing the burden on caregivers and improving overall quality of life.

Evaluating the Alzheimer's Score for Jackson Springs requires a multi-faceted approach. It's not just about the number of doctors; it's about the quality of care, the availability of specialized services, and the strength of the support network within the community. The analysis needs to consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the experience and training of PCPs, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health and community resources.

The effectiveness of the healthcare system depends on collaboration. Hospitals, clinics, social workers, and community organizations must work together to create a comprehensive support system for Alzheimer's patients and their families. This includes sharing information, coordinating care, and advocating for policies that support dementia care.

To obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jackson Springs, NC (ZIP code 27281), and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the locations of physicians, mental health facilities, and support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations that can help you assess the accessibility of care and identify potential gaps in services.