27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.42 percent of the residents in 27855 has some form of health insurance. 46.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.25 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 27855 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27855. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,130 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 249 health care providers accessible to residents in 27855, Murfreesboro, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Murfreesboro, NC (ZIP Code 27855)

The evaluation of healthcare resources for Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 27855, encompassing Murfreesboro, North Carolina, necessitates a multi-faceted analysis. This assessment will consider factors directly impacting the quality of care available to individuals and families navigating the challenges of this debilitating illness. The focus will be on primary care physician (PCP) availability, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and the overall landscape of care within the specified geographic area. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system concerning Alzheimer's care.

Primary care physicians form the cornerstone of Alzheimer's diagnosis and management. Their role extends beyond initial screening and referral; they often coordinate the complex care required. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Murfreesboro is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, limited access to follow-up appointments, and increased stress on both patients and caregivers. Researching the average wait times for appointments with PCPs within the ZIP code is also essential. Lengthy wait times can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals exhibiting early symptoms of Alzheimer's or those requiring ongoing monitoring.

Standout practices within Murfreesboro should be identified. These are healthcare providers demonstrating a commitment to Alzheimer's care through specialized training, dedicated memory clinics, or participation in clinical trials. Identifying these practices allows for the recognition of best practices and provides a benchmark for other providers. The presence of geriatricians, specialists in the care of older adults, is particularly important. Geriatricians possess specialized knowledge and expertise in diagnosing and managing age-related conditions, including Alzheimer's. Their availability significantly impacts the quality of care.

Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare services, particularly in rural areas like Murfreesboro. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine by local PCPs is critical. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and support group participation, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The presence of telehealth infrastructure, including access to reliable internet and user-friendly platforms, is another factor to consider. Telemedicine can be a game-changer for patients and caregivers in Murfreesboro.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often leads to significant emotional and psychological distress for both patients and their families. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is paramount. Assessing the presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options within the community is also crucial. These resources provide crucial emotional support and practical assistance to caregivers, helping them navigate the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's.

The analysis also considers the broader community support system. The presence of local chapters of organizations like the Alzheimer's Association, which offer educational programs, support groups, and advocacy services, is a positive indicator. The availability of assisted living facilities and memory care units within the area is also a critical factor. These facilities provide specialized care and support for individuals with Alzheimer's, allowing them to maintain a degree of independence while receiving the necessary medical and personal care.

The assessment of primary care availability in Murfreesboro must delve into the details of access. This includes an examination of insurance acceptance, including Medicare and Medicaid, as these are the primary insurance plans for many older adults. The availability of transportation services for patients who cannot drive themselves to appointments is another important consideration. These services ensure that individuals can access the care they need, regardless of their mobility limitations.

Furthermore, the evaluation should consider the overall quality of care provided by local healthcare providers. This can be assessed through patient satisfaction surveys, reviews, and ratings. Analyzing these data provides insights into the patient experience and identifies areas for improvement. The commitment of local healthcare providers to ongoing professional development and training in Alzheimer's care is also an important factor. This ensures that they stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in diagnosis, treatment, and management.

The integration of technology into healthcare is transforming the delivery of care. Assessing the use of electronic health records (EHRs) by local healthcare providers is essential. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information among healthcare providers, improving coordination of care and reducing the risk of medical errors. The ability of patients to access their medical records online and communicate with their healthcare providers electronically is also a positive indicator.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score analysis for Murfreesboro, NC (ZIP code 27855) reveals a complex healthcare landscape. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall community support system all contribute to the quality of care available to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. A thorough evaluation of these factors is necessary to identify areas of strength and weakness and to develop strategies for improving Alzheimer's care in the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Murfreesboro and surrounding areas, including physician locations, facility locations, and demographic data, explore the power of spatial analysis. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution within ZIP code 27855 and beyond.