27356, Star, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27356, Star, North Carolina is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.46 percent of the residents in 27356 has some form of health insurance. 52.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.31 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 27356 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 990 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27356. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 375 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 635 health care providers accessible to residents in 27356, Star, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Star, NC (27356) Primary Care Landscape

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services in Star, North Carolina (ZIP code 27356), with a specific focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease management. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial for supporting individuals and families navigating the complexities of this disease.

The foundation of any Alzheimer's care plan is accessible and competent primary care. In Star, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. National averages often mask the reality of resource limitations in smaller towns. While precise, publicly available physician-to-patient ratio data specific to 27356 is often difficult to obtain, we can infer challenges. Rural areas frequently face shortages, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. This scarcity can strain existing primary care practices, impacting their ability to provide comprehensive care, including the early detection and management of Alzheimer's.

The characteristics of primary care practices within the ZIP code are equally important. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often have the advantage of shared resources, including access to specialists and support staff. This can be particularly beneficial in Alzheimer's care, where a multidisciplinary approach is often required. The presence of nurses specializing in geriatric care or certified dementia practitioners within a practice significantly enhances its ability to address the unique needs of Alzheimer's patients. A practice's commitment to ongoing professional development, especially in areas like cognitive assessment and dementia-specific care, further elevates its Alzheimer's Score.

Standout practices, if any, within 27356 would be those demonstrating a proactive approach to Alzheimer's care. This includes offering comprehensive cognitive screenings, establishing strong referral networks with neurologists and geriatric specialists, and providing educational resources for patients and their families. Practices that actively participate in local support groups or partner with organizations dedicated to Alzheimer's advocacy would also score favorably. The ability to effectively communicate with patients and families, providing clear explanations of the disease process and treatment options, is another key indicator of a practice's commitment to quality care.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in this rural setting. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations with specialists who may not be readily available locally. This is particularly important for Alzheimer's patients, who may have difficulty traveling long distances. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires reliable internet access, which can be a significant hurdle in some rural areas. Furthermore, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on the patient's comfort level with technology and the availability of support to navigate virtual appointments. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care models, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, would receive a higher Alzheimer's Score.

The availability of mental health resources is another crucial factor in this analysis. Alzheimer's 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 essential for managing these symptoms and improving the patient's quality of life. The presence of these resources within the community, or readily accessible through referral networks, directly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and have established referral pathways to mental health services demonstrate a strong commitment to holistic care.

The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, is not a single number but a composite assessment based on these interwoven factors. It reflects the overall capacity of the primary care landscape in 27356 to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. The score would be negatively impacted by low physician-to-patient ratios, limited access to specialists, and a lack of telemedicine infrastructure. Conversely, it would be elevated by the presence of well-equipped practices, proactive dementia care programs, and robust mental health support systems.

In conclusion, the primary care landscape in Star, NC (27356) requires careful evaluation to determine its capacity to meet the growing needs of the Alzheimer's population. While challenges likely exist due to the rural setting, proactive measures by healthcare providers, coupled with community support, can significantly improve the quality of care available.

For a comprehensive, visually-driven understanding of healthcare resources and their geographical distribution in Star, NC (27356), including physician locations, specialist availability, and access to support services, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, empowering individuals, families, and healthcare professionals to make informed decisions.