27501, Angier, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27501, Angier, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.92 percent of the residents in 27501 has some form of health insurance. 33.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.94 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 27501 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,558 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27501. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,866 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,041 health care providers accessible to residents in 27501, Angier, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses healthcare accessibility and quality within ZIP Code 27501 (Angier, North Carolina) with a focus on primary care physician (PCP) availability, particularly concerning Alzheimer's care. This analysis will not produce a numerical 'Alzheimer's Score' but instead provides a qualitative evaluation of the factors impacting Alzheimer's care within the defined geographic area. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

Angier, a small town, faces inherent challenges in healthcare provision. Rural areas often experience shortages of medical professionals, potentially impacting access to specialized care for conditions like Alzheimer's disease. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. National averages suggest a benchmark for PCP availability. However, in a rural setting like Angier, this ratio might be less favorable. The availability of geriatricians, neurologists, and other specialists crucial for Alzheimer's diagnosis and management becomes even more critical. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for specialists, would negatively impact the overall assessment.

The presence of standout practices is a significant factor. Are there any primary care clinics in Angier or nearby that have demonstrated a commitment to geriatric care and dementia management? This includes having physicians with specialized training or certifications in geriatrics or dementia care. Do these practices utilize standardized cognitive assessments, early detection strategies, and comprehensive care plans for patients with suspected or confirmed Alzheimer's? Practices that actively participate in research, clinical trials, or community outreach programs related to Alzheimer's would receive higher marks. Conversely, practices lacking these components would reflect less favorably on the overall assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and provide access to specialists who may not be physically located in Angier. The availability of telehealth consultations for neurology, geriatrics, and mental health services is a positive indicator. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and digital communication tools for patients with Alzheimer's and their caregivers contribute to a higher assessment. The absence of these services would indicate a potential gap in care.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, requiring access to mental health professionals. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is crucial. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options for caregivers is equally important. A strong network of mental health resources would significantly improve the assessment, while a lack of such resources would be a major concern.

Specific examples within ZIP Code 27501 are difficult to provide without a comprehensive, real-time assessment of local healthcare providers. However, we can speculate on potential scenarios. A clinic that employs a geriatrician, offers telemedicine consultations with a neurologist, and partners with a local mental health organization would score favorably. Conversely, a practice with a limited number of PCPs, no geriatric specialists, and no telemedicine options would receive a lower assessment.

The impact of these factors extends beyond the individual patient. The overall healthcare infrastructure in Angier, including the presence of hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and home healthcare agencies, plays a role. The availability of these resources influences the ability to provide comprehensive Alzheimer's care. Hospitals with specialized geriatric units or memory care units are a positive sign. The presence of skilled nursing facilities with dementia-specific programs is also a significant benefit.

Caregiver support is a crucial aspect of Alzheimer's care. The availability of resources for caregivers, such as support groups, educational programs, and respite care, is essential. These resources can help caregivers manage the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's and prevent caregiver burnout. The absence of these support systems would negatively affect the overall assessment.

The assessment must also consider the socioeconomic factors of the community. The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease is often higher in underserved populations. The ability of healthcare providers to address health disparities and provide culturally sensitive care is an important consideration. Practices that offer financial assistance programs, language services, and other accommodations for patients from diverse backgrounds would receive higher marks.

The assessment should also consider the degree of community awareness and education regarding Alzheimer's disease. The presence of community programs, educational workshops, and public awareness campaigns can help to reduce stigma and promote early detection. Healthcare providers who actively participate in these initiatives would receive a positive assessment.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape in Angier, ZIP Code 27501, faces challenges typical of rural areas. The physician-to-patient ratio, especially for specialists, is a critical factor. The presence of standout practices with specialized expertise, telemedicine capabilities, and robust mental health resources is essential. Caregiver support, community awareness, and the ability to address health disparities are also crucial considerations. A comprehensive assessment would require detailed information about specific healthcare providers and the resources available in the community.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape in Angier, and to identify potential gaps in Alzheimer's care, we recommend exploring the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of accessibility and availability.