27591, Wendell, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27591, Wendell, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.11 percent of the residents in 27591 has some form of health insurance. 33.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.90 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 27591 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,932 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 41 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27591. An estimate of 60 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,602 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 20,879 health care providers accessible to residents in 27591, Wendell, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Wendell, NC (ZIP Code 27591)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 27591 (Wendell, North Carolina), focusing on primary care physician availability and related resources. The assessment considers factors relevant to Alzheimer's care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. This is not an exhaustive medical review, but a data-driven overview to provide insight into the local healthcare landscape.

The primary care physician landscape in Wendell plays a crucial role in Alzheimer's care. Early diagnosis and ongoing management often fall to primary care physicians (PCPs). A favorable physician-to-patient ratio is vital. While precise figures fluctuate, the national average for PCP availability is often cited as a benchmark. Wendell's ratio should be compared to both the national average and the broader Wake County figures. A low ratio, meaning fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, hindering timely diagnosis and treatment initiation. This can be particularly detrimental for individuals experiencing cognitive decline, where early intervention is paramount.

Standout practices in Wendell, if any, could significantly impact the quality of Alzheimer's care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, cognitive assessments, and care coordination are highly valued. These practices may have specialized training in dementia care, offer memory clinics, or actively collaborate with specialists like neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists. Identifying these practices requires a review of patient reviews, practice websites, and potentially, direct outreach to local healthcare providers. Practices actively involved in community outreach and education regarding Alzheimer's would also score favorably.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in Alzheimer's care. Telemedicine can enhance access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those residing in rural areas. Virtual consultations can facilitate initial assessments, medication management, and follow-up appointments. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and a well-defined telehealth platform. Examining the extent of telemedicine adoption among Wendell's PCPs is critical. Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms for patient care and consultation would receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these challenges. The availability of these resources in Wendell should be evaluated. Are there local mental health clinics? Are there psychiatrists accepting new patients? Are there support groups for caregivers? Access to these resources directly impacts the quality of life for both the patient and their family. A strong network of mental health providers would significantly improve the Alzheimer's score.

The availability of specialized geriatric care is also essential. Geriatricians possess specialized training in the care of older adults, including those with cognitive impairments. Their expertise can be invaluable in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's. The presence of geriatricians within Wendell or in neighboring communities should be assessed. The proximity to specialists can influence the quality of care.

Care coordination is another key element. Alzheimer's care often involves a multidisciplinary approach, requiring coordination among PCPs, specialists, therapists, and caregivers. Practices that actively facilitate care coordination, such as through electronic health records and communication platforms, are more likely to provide comprehensive care. The presence of care managers or social workers within practices can also improve care coordination.

The availability of community resources, such as adult day care centers and respite care services, can provide essential support for caregivers. These resources can alleviate caregiver burden and allow individuals with Alzheimer's to remain in their homes longer. Assessing the availability of these services in Wendell is an important aspect of the Alzheimer's score.

The overall Alzheimer's score for Wendell, NC (27591) would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable environment for Alzheimer's care, with a strong physician-to-patient ratio, readily available mental health resources, telemedicine adoption, and robust care coordination. A low score would suggest potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care.

Analyzing data from various sources, including healthcare provider directories, patient reviews, and public health reports, is crucial for determining the Alzheimer's score. The final score should reflect the reality of the healthcare landscape in Wendell, providing valuable insights for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

The evaluation of these factors provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Wendell, NC (27591) regarding Alzheimer's care. This analysis provides a starting point for further investigation and improvement.

Consider visualizing this data using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for mapping and analyzing healthcare data, providing a clear visual representation of physician locations, resource availability, and other relevant factors. Visualize the data to understand the spatial distribution of resources and identify areas where improvements are needed.