27863, Pikeville, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27863, Pikeville, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.59 percent of the residents in 27863 has some form of health insurance. 30.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.29 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 27863 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,556 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27863. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,528 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,102 health care providers accessible to residents in 27863, Pikeville, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Pikeville, NC (ZIP Code 27863)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within the Pikeville, North Carolina (ZIP code 27863) area. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" evaluation. This score reflects the community's preparedness to address the needs of individuals and families affected by this devastating illness.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care rests on accessible primary care. Pikeville, a relatively small town, likely faces challenges in physician distribution. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. National averages, though not directly applicable to a specific ZIP code, provide a benchmark. A lower ratio (fewer patients per doctor) generally indicates better access. Researching the actual ratio within 27863 is essential. This requires accessing data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board or the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. A low ratio suggests residents can more easily secure appointments with primary care physicians, the initial point of contact for memory concerns.

The presence of standout practices in Pikeville significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. These practices might be identified through online reviews, referrals from local hospitals (if any exist), or recommendations from community organizations. A "standout" practice would ideally demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, including experience with cognitive assessments and early diagnosis of dementia. Does the practice offer memory screenings? Do they have nurses or staff trained in dementia care? Do they collaborate with specialists, such as neurologists or geriatric psychiatrists? The presence of such practices elevates the Alzheimer's Score considerably.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers several advantages, particularly for rural communities. It can reduce travel burdens for patients and caregivers, improve access to specialists, and facilitate remote monitoring. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within Pikeville is vital. Do local primary care practices offer virtual appointments? Are there partnerships with specialists in larger cities who provide telemedicine consultations? The more extensive the telemedicine options, the higher the Alzheimer's Score, as it indicates a more adaptable and accessible healthcare system.

The availability of mental health resources is intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. Both the patient and the caregiver experience significant emotional and psychological challenges. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups is crucial. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the density of these resources within and around Pikeville. Are there local mental health clinics? Are there support groups specifically for Alzheimer's patients and their families? Are there resources for respite care, which provides temporary relief to caregivers? The presence of robust mental health support systems dramatically improves the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's and elevates the community's overall preparedness.

Evaluating the specific practices within 27863 requires a deeper dive. For instance, a practice with a dedicated geriatrician or a physician with a special interest in memory disorders would significantly boost the score. This practice should offer comprehensive cognitive assessments, including neuropsychological testing if possible, and be knowledgeable about the latest pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. The practice's willingness to participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's would further enhance its standing.

The community's awareness and engagement with Alzheimer's are also essential. Does the town have an active chapter of the Alzheimer's Association? Are there educational programs for the public? Are local businesses and organizations trained to recognize and assist individuals with cognitive impairments? A community that actively promotes awareness and provides support services will receive a higher Alzheimer's Score.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for Pikeville, NC (27863) is a composite measure reflecting the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of its healthcare resources related to Alzheimer's disease. The score will be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the level of community awareness and engagement. A high score indicates a community well-equipped to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. Conversely, a low score highlights areas needing improvement, such as increasing physician access, expanding telemedicine options, and bolstering mental health services.

To gain a more granular and visually informative understanding of healthcare resources in Pikeville and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive, data-driven visualizations that can reveal valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility distributions, and other relevant data points.