27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.99 percent of the residents in 27587 has some form of health insurance. 19.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.47 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 27587 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 21,940 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 45 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27587. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 8,892 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 23,404 health care providers accessible to residents in 27587, Wake Forest, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Wake Forest, NC (ZIP Code 27587)

This analysis delves into the availability of resources and the potential support system for individuals managing Alzheimer's disease in Wake Forest, North Carolina (ZIP code 27587). We will assess the landscape of primary care physicians, their capacity, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health services, all crucial components in providing comprehensive care for those affected by this challenging condition. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure.

The initial consideration is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs) relative to the population, presents a significant hurdle. Patients with Alzheimer's often require frequent check-ups, medication management, and coordination of care. A limited number of PCPs can lead to longer wait times for appointments, decreased access to timely interventions, and increased stress for both patients and caregivers. Specific data on the PCP-to-patient ratio within the 27587 ZIP code is critical. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with census information, can provide an estimated ratio. This ratio will serve as a foundational element in the overall Alzheimer's Score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are essential. Identifying standout practices in Wake Forest is crucial. These practices may demonstrate excellence in several areas. For example, a practice that is known to provide a comprehensive geriatric assessment, a thorough evaluation of cognitive function, or a practice that actively participates in clinical trials related to Alzheimer's disease. The presence of dedicated geriatricians or physicians with specialized training in dementia care within these practices significantly elevates their value. Reviews from patients and caregivers, coupled with information from organizations like the Alzheimer's Association, can help identify these leading practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, especially for patients who may have mobility issues or live in areas with limited resources. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide support to caregivers through telemedicine platforms can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Score will assess the prevalence of telemedicine services offered by primary care practices in the 27587 ZIP code. Are virtual appointments readily available? Do practices utilize remote monitoring tools? The answers to these questions will influence the overall score.

The availability of mental health resources is another crucial aspect. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is essential for managing these symptoms and supporting both patients and caregivers. The analysis will evaluate the presence of mental health providers within the 27587 ZIP code, considering the availability of specialized geriatric mental health services. Are there support groups for caregivers? Are there resources for counseling and therapy? These factors directly impact the Alzheimer's Score.

Furthermore, the presence of specialized memory care clinics or centers within the Wake Forest area would be a significant positive factor. These clinics typically offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, treatment plans, and support services tailored to individuals with cognitive impairments. They often employ multidisciplinary teams, including neurologists, neuropsychologists, and social workers, providing a holistic approach to care. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the availability and accessibility of these specialized services.

The assessment will also consider the availability of respite care options. Caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's often experience significant stress and burnout. Respite care services, such as adult day care centers or in-home care providers, provide temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to take breaks and maintain their own well-being. The presence and affordability of these services will positively impact the Alzheimer's Score.

The Alzheimer's Score will also factor in the availability of community resources. The presence of local chapters of the Alzheimer's Association, support groups, educational programs, and caregiver training programs can significantly enhance the support network for those affected by the disease. These resources provide valuable information, emotional support, and practical assistance to both patients and caregivers.

The final Alzheimer's Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure in Wake Forest, NC (27587) in relation to Alzheimer's care. This score will be based on a combination of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of specialized memory care clinics, the availability of respite care options, and the availability of community resources.

The resulting score will provide a valuable snapshot of the local landscape, highlighting areas where improvements are needed and identifying potential opportunities for enhancing the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The analysis will be tailored to the specific context of Wake Forest, taking into account the unique characteristics of the community.

Finally, the Alzheimer's Score will be presented in a clear and concise format, using a scale that allows for easy interpretation. The score will be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used and the factors considered, providing transparency and allowing for informed decision-making.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to empower individuals, caregivers, and healthcare providers in Wake Forest with the information they need to navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's disease and access the resources they need to live well. This score will serve as a starting point for ongoing assessment and improvement, fostering a more supportive and compassionate community for those affected by this devastating condition.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wake Forest and beyond, including physician locations, resource availability, and demographic data, we invite you to explore the power of interactive mapping.

**Click here to visualize the data and gain deeper insights with CartoChrome maps.**