27864, Pinetops, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27864, Pinetops, North Carolina is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.34 percent of the residents in 27864 has some form of health insurance. 46.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.18 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 27864 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,189 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 112 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27864. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 870 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,121 health care providers accessible to residents in 27864, Pinetops, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Pinetops, NC (ZIP Code 27864)

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare resources in Pinetops, North Carolina (ZIP code 27864), specifically focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. We will assess the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of mental health resources, telemedicine adoption, and overall physician-to-patient ratios to formulate an “Alzheimer’s Score” reflecting the community's preparedness to address the needs of individuals and families affected by this devastating illness. The aim is to provide a granular understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care rests on accessible primary care. Early diagnosis and ongoing management are crucial, and primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact. In Pinetops, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with population estimates for the 27864 ZIP code, are essential to determine this ratio. A thorough investigation would involve identifying the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and dividing this number by the estimated population.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. We need to evaluate the practices within Pinetops. Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they have experience with geriatric care and dementia management? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate the needs of caregivers? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, such as having physicians with certifications in geriatrics or dementia care, are highly valuable. Furthermore, the presence of dedicated care coordinators or social workers within these practices significantly enhances the ability to navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers significant advantages in rural communities like Pinetops, where geographical barriers can limit access to specialized care. Telehealth consultations can provide access to neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists who may not be readily available locally. Examining the adoption rate of telemedicine among primary care practices in the area is important. Do they offer virtual appointments? Are they equipped with the technology to facilitate remote monitoring of patients? The availability of telehealth options can greatly improve access to specialized care, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is critical. Assessing the number of these professionals practicing within or near the 27864 ZIP code is essential. Furthermore, the existence of support groups, counseling services, and memory care programs in the community is vital for providing emotional support to both patients and their caregivers.

The availability of specialized memory care facilities and assisted living facilities that cater to individuals with dementia is a critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment, offering specialized care and activities designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. Assessing the number of beds available in these facilities, their staffing levels, and the quality of care they provide is essential. Furthermore, the cost of these facilities and the availability of financial assistance programs can significantly impact access to care for individuals and families.

To arrive at an Alzheimer's Score, a weighted approach is necessary. The physician-to-patient ratio should carry significant weight, as it directly impacts access to care. The presence of geriatric-focused practices and telemedicine adoption would also contribute substantially to the score. The availability of mental health resources and specialized memory care facilities should also be weighted. The score would be a composite, reflecting the overall preparedness of the community to address the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

The analysis would also need to consider the socio-economic factors within the community. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to healthy food can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. These factors should be considered when evaluating the overall healthcare landscape.

A standout practice would likely exhibit several key characteristics. It would have a low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning more doctors per capita. It would actively accept new patients, especially those with geriatric needs. The practice would have physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or dementia care. Telemedicine would be integrated into its practice, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities. The practice would have strong connections with mental health professionals and memory care facilities in the community. The practice would also have a dedicated care coordinator or social worker to assist patients and their families in navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for Pinetops, NC (27864) would be a reflection of the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a community well-equipped to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. A low score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding access to mental health resources, and promoting telemedicine adoption. The score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves.

This analysis is a starting point. A more comprehensive assessment would involve detailed data collection, site visits, and interviews with healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers. The goal is to provide a clear and actionable understanding of the healthcare resources available in Pinetops, NC, and to identify opportunities for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Pinetops and surrounding areas, including the locations of medical practices, mental health resources, and memory care facilities, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help visualize the data and provide a clearer understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources.