27358, Summerfield, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27358, Summerfield, North Carolina is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.89 percent of the residents in 27358 has some form of health insurance. 23.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.55 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 27358 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,902 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27358. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,240 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,960 health care providers accessible to residents in 27358, Summerfield, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Summerfield, NC (ZIP Code 27358)

This analysis assesses the availability of resources and the overall landscape of care for individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias within Summerfield, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27358). The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" perspective, evaluating the accessibility and quality of primary care, specialist support, and ancillary services crucial for managing this complex condition. We will explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and consider the availability of mental health resources. This analysis is not a formal grading system but rather a contextual assessment based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care lies in robust primary care. In Summerfield, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. While precise numbers fluctuate and are often proprietary to healthcare providers, publicly available data, such as the County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, can provide estimates of primary care physician availability per capita within Guilford County, where Summerfield is located. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per resident, generally translates to easier access to appointments, preventative care, and ongoing monitoring. However, this data alone is insufficient. We must also consider the age distribution of the population in Summerfield. A community with a higher proportion of older adults will likely experience greater demand for primary care services, particularly those focused on geriatric medicine and cognitive health.

Assessing the quality of primary care involves looking beyond simple availability. Are practices actively screening for cognitive decline? Do they have established protocols for referring patients to specialists like neurologists and geriatricians? Do they collaborate with memory care centers or support groups? These elements contribute to a more comprehensive approach to Alzheimer's care. Practices that proactively address cognitive health and foster interdisciplinary collaboration will receive a higher score in this assessment.

Summerfield’s primary care landscape should be evaluated for standout practices. These are clinics or individual physicians who demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care through specific initiatives. This might include offering specialized memory clinics, participating in clinical trials, or providing educational resources for patients and families. Identifying these practices is essential for directing individuals to the best possible care within the community. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and professional referrals can provide valuable insights into the reputations and strengths of different practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telehealth can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, which are common among those with Alzheimer's. The availability of virtual consultations with primary care physicians, neurologists, and other specialists can streamline the diagnostic process, facilitate medication management, and provide ongoing support. Examining the adoption rates of telemedicine within Summerfield's primary care practices and specialist networks is crucial. Practices that embrace telehealth technologies are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care options.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within Summerfield and the surrounding areas is a key component of this assessment. This includes examining the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of individual and group therapy, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and caregiver resources is critical. Alzheimer's disease places a significant burden on caregivers, who often experience stress, burnout, and social isolation. The presence of support groups, respite care services, and educational programs can provide invaluable assistance to caregivers. Evaluating the availability and accessibility of these resources within Summerfield is an important aspect of this analysis. Organizations like the Alzheimer's Association and local community centers often provide these services.

In addition to the above factors, the availability of specialized services, such as memory care centers and assisted living facilities, also influences the Alzheimer's Score. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's, offering specialized care and activities designed to meet their unique needs. Assessing the availability and quality of these facilities within Summerfield and the surrounding areas is a critical component of the overall assessment.

Finally, the overall Alzheimer's Score for Summerfield (ZIP Code 27358) is not a single numerical value. Instead, it represents a nuanced understanding of the community's capacity to provide comprehensive care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The score is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of support groups, and the availability of specialized services. Summerfield's score, based on the parameters described, is a complex assessment. The availability of primary care is a baseline. The commitment of physicians to cognitive health is a key factor. Telemedicine adoption and mental health resources are vital. The presence of support groups and specialized facilities are also essential.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Summerfield and the surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and support services, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help you make informed decisions about care.