27804, Rocky Mount, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27804, Rocky Mount, North Carolina is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.65 percent of the residents in 27804 has some form of health insurance. 40.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.30 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 27804 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,414 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27804. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,622 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,621 health care providers accessible to residents in 27804, Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Rocky Mount, NC (ZIP Code 27804)

Analyzing the availability of Alzheimer's care and support within Rocky Mount, North Carolina (ZIP code 27804) requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates examining the landscape of primary care physicians, their capacity to manage early-stage cognitive decline, and the broader network of resources available to patients and their families. This analysis will provide an "Alzheimer's Score" perspective, considering key factors that contribute to the quality and accessibility of care.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with primary care physicians (PCPs). In Rocky Mount, the physician-to-patient ratio for PCPs is a critical indicator. A high ratio, meaning a large number of patients per doctor, can strain resources and potentially limit the time available for comprehensive cognitive assessments and ongoing management. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and local hospital systems can help determine this ratio, providing a baseline for understanding access. A low ratio, conversely, suggests greater availability for appointments and potentially more personalized care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the expertise of PCPs in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's is paramount. Do local practices actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) focused on dementia care? Are they equipped with cognitive screening tools, such as the Mini-Cog or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)? Practices that prioritize these elements demonstrate a commitment to early detection and proactive management, crucial for slowing disease progression and improving quality of life.

Standout practices within the 27804 ZIP code should be identified. These practices might be recognized for their specialized focus on geriatric care, their integration of memory clinics, or their partnerships with local support organizations. Key indicators of excellence include dedicated staff trained in dementia care, accessibility to specialists (neurologists, geriatric psychiatrists), and a patient-centered approach that emphasizes communication and support for both the patient and their caregivers.

Telemedicine adoption presents another crucial aspect of the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources for patients and families are better positioned to provide ongoing support and manage the disease effectively. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve the convenience and accessibility of care, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Therefore, the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the community is essential. Access to these resources can help manage behavioral symptoms, provide emotional support, and improve the overall well-being of both patients and their caregivers. Strong collaborations between primary care practices and mental health providers are a positive indicator.

The availability of support groups and caregiver resources significantly influences the Alzheimer's Score. Organizations like the Alzheimer's Association and local community centers often provide support groups, educational programs, and respite care services. The presence of these resources, along with their accessibility and affordability, contributes to the overall quality of care. Strong community involvement in supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's is a sign of a supportive environment.

The presence of specialized memory care units or assisted living facilities within the 27804 ZIP code is also a factor. These facilities offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals with advanced stages of Alzheimer's. The quality of care provided by these facilities, as well as their affordability and accessibility, are important considerations. Regular inspections and accreditations can provide assurances of quality and safety.

In summary, the Alzheimer's Score for Rocky Mount (27804) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the expertise of PCPs in dementia care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of support groups and specialized care facilities. A comprehensive assessment of these elements is essential to understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current care landscape.

A robust Alzheimer's Score for Rocky Mount would require a detailed analysis of each of these factors, drawing on data from local healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies. This analysis would then provide a clear picture of the current state of Alzheimer's care, identifying areas for improvement and highlighting best practices. This score can be used as a benchmark for improvement.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, memory care facilities, and support services, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you understand the spatial relationships between resources and the population, allowing for a more informed assessment of access to care.