27534, Goldsboro, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27534, Goldsboro, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.96 percent of the residents in 27534 has some form of health insurance. 36.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.39 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 27534 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,285 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27534. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,216 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,153 health care providers accessible to residents in 27534, Goldsboro, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score: Goldsboro, NC (ZIP Code 27534) – A Primary Care Landscape Analysis

This analysis assesses the primary care landscape within Goldsboro, North Carolina (ZIP code 27534), focusing on factors pertinent to Alzheimer's care and support. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" reflecting the accessibility, quality, and resources available to individuals and families navigating this challenging disease. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

The foundational element of any Alzheimer's care system is the strength of its primary care network. In Goldsboro, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. While precise figures fluctuate, a general assessment reveals a potential shortfall in primary care physicians relative to the population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, making timely diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's more difficult. A higher patient load per physician can also limit the time available for comprehensive patient assessments, including cognitive evaluations vital in the early stages of the disease.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by individual practices is paramount. Some practices in Goldsboro stand out for their commitment to geriatric care and their experience in managing complex conditions like Alzheimer's. These practices often employ specialized staff, such as nurses or medical assistants trained in geriatric care, who can provide additional support and education to patients and families. They may also have established protocols for cognitive screening and early detection, a critical component of effective Alzheimer's management. Identifying these standout practices requires in-depth research, including patient reviews, physician credentials, and the availability of specialized services.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in providing care to patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. It allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring, making it easier for patients and their caregivers to access care. The degree to which primary care practices in Goldsboro have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of secure video conferencing and remote monitoring tools, directly impacts the accessibility of care for Alzheimer's patients. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are likely to receive a higher score.

The availability of robust mental health resources is intrinsically linked to the quality of Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's disease profoundly impacts not only the patient but also their caregivers, often leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for both patients and caregivers. The Alzheimer's Score considers the availability of these resources within Goldsboro, including the number of mental health professionals, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, support groups), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times).

Furthermore, the presence of specialized memory care clinics or programs within the primary care network or the wider community significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. These clinics often offer comprehensive diagnostic services, including neuropsychological testing, and provide tailored care plans for patients with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. They also often provide educational resources and support groups for caregivers, creating a holistic approach to care. The existence and accessibility of such specialized programs are a positive indicator of the community's commitment to Alzheimer's care.

Another factor considered is the level of community support available. This includes the presence of organizations such as the Alzheimer's Association, which provide education, support groups, and resources for patients and families. The Alzheimer's Score reflects the availability and accessibility of these community resources, as they play a vital role in empowering caregivers and improving the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

Finally, the Alzheimer's Score considers the level of collaboration and communication between primary care physicians, specialists (e.g., neurologists, geriatricians), and other healthcare providers. Effective communication ensures that patients receive coordinated and comprehensive care. Practices that have established referral pathways and regularly communicate with specialists are likely to provide better care for Alzheimer's patients.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for Goldsboro, NC (ZIP code 27534) is a composite measure that reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape. While a comprehensive assessment requires detailed data, the analysis suggests that the area faces challenges in physician-to-patient ratios and the need for greater telemedicine adoption. However, the presence of dedicated practices and community resources offers hope.

Ultimately, navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care requires informed decision-making. Understanding the availability of resources, the quality of care, and the level of community support is crucial for both patients and caregivers.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Goldsboro and visualize the distribution of resources, including physician locations, mental health facilities, and community support organizations, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This tool allows you to visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.