27845, Jackson, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27845, Jackson, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 73.15 percent of the residents in 27845 has some form of health insurance. 28.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.08 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 27845 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 456 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27845. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 453 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 467 health care providers accessible to residents in 27845, Jackson, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses primary care availability and related factors within ZIP code 27845, specifically focusing on Jackson, North Carolina, and its impact on Alzheimer's care. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability, all crucial elements influencing the quality and accessibility of care for individuals at risk or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Jackson, North Carolina, a relatively small community, faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. One of the primary hurdles is the physician-to-patient ratio. A limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serving a population of a certain size translates to fewer available appointments, longer wait times, and potentially reduced continuity of care. This is particularly problematic for Alzheimer's patients, who require regular monitoring, medication management, and support. A low physician-to-patient ratio can exacerbate the difficulties in obtaining timely diagnoses and interventions, hindering the ability to effectively manage the disease.

Within the context of Jackson, the presence of standout primary care practices is crucial. These practices, often characterized by a patient-centered approach, may offer a more comprehensive and accessible level of care. They might have dedicated staff trained in geriatric care, including nurses and social workers, who can provide specialized support to Alzheimer's patients and their families. The practices might also actively participate in community outreach programs, raising awareness about Alzheimer's and promoting early detection. The existence of such exemplary practices can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve healthcare access in Jackson. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially beneficial for those with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. For Alzheimer's patients, telemedicine can facilitate medication management, follow-up appointments, and even cognitive assessments. However, the successful implementation of telemedicine requires reliable internet access, patient and physician familiarity with the technology, and the integration of telemedicine platforms into existing healthcare systems. The extent to which primary care practices in Jackson have embraced telemedicine will directly impact the accessibility of care for Alzheimer's patients.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. Moreover, the diagnosis and progression of Alzheimer's can significantly impact the mental health of both patients and their caregivers. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is therefore critical. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and respite care services can also alleviate the burden on caregivers and improve the overall well-being of those affected by the disease. A comprehensive approach to Alzheimer's care must integrate mental health services to address the complex needs of patients and their families.

The specific practices within the 27845 ZIP code should be assessed based on their individual characteristics. Factors to consider include the size of the practice, the number of physicians, the types of services offered, and the availability of specialized staff. It is also essential to evaluate the practice's commitment to geriatric care, including its experience in managing Alzheimer's patients and its willingness to participate in continuing education programs. The practice's use of electronic health records (EHRs) and its integration with other healthcare providers are also important considerations.

Furthermore, the community's support systems play a crucial role. The presence of local Alzheimer's support groups, memory care facilities, and home health agencies can significantly enhance the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their families. These resources provide crucial support, education, and respite care, allowing caregivers to manage the demands of the disease. The availability of these resources can be a significant factor in determining the overall quality of care for Alzheimer's patients in Jackson.

The analysis of primary care availability in Jackson should also consider the demographics of the population. The prevalence of Alzheimer's increases with age, so understanding the age distribution of the population is essential. The socioeconomic status of the community also plays a role, as access to healthcare and resources can vary based on income levels. Furthermore, the cultural and linguistic diversity of the population should be considered, as healthcare providers must be able to communicate effectively with all patients.

The overall assessment of primary care availability in Jackson, North Carolina, for Alzheimer's patients will be influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the demographics of the population, and the community support systems all contribute to the quality and accessibility of care. Addressing the challenges and leveraging the opportunities in each of these areas is crucial to improving the lives of those affected by Alzheimer's disease in Jackson.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Jackson, North Carolina, and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps provide a dynamic and informative view of the healthcare ecosystem, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of access and resources.