27865, Pinetown, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27865, Pinetown, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.42 percent of the residents in 27865 has some form of health insurance. 26.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.27 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 27865 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 532 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27865. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 485 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,130 health care providers accessible to residents in 27865, Pinetown, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Pinetown, NC (ZIP Code 27865)

This analysis delves into the availability of resources and the overall landscape of care for individuals, particularly those impacted by Alzheimer's disease, within the Pinetown, North Carolina (ZIP code 27865) area. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility and quality of care based on several key factors, including physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This assessment is designed to assist residents, caregivers, and healthcare providers in understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in addressing the challenges posed by Alzheimer's.

The primary care physician (PCP) landscape in Pinetown, and the surrounding areas within the 27865 ZIP code, is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. A low ratio, meaning a relatively small number of physicians serving a large population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a less comprehensive approach to care. Data from publicly available sources, such as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, and private healthcare databases, are essential to establish an accurate physician-to-patient ratio. This data will be crucial in determining the "Alzheimer's Score" for this area.

The presence of specialized geriatricians or neurologists within the 27865 ZIP code, or in nearby communities within a reasonable travel distance, is another critical consideration. These specialists possess specific expertise in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Their availability significantly impacts the quality of care, especially in the early stages of the disease, where accurate diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial. The analysis will examine the number of these specialists, their proximity to Pinetown, and the ease of access to their services.

Standout practices within the region, those demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care and Alzheimer's management, will be identified. This involves evaluating their patient-centered approach, the availability of support services for patients and caregivers, and their integration of evidence-based practices. Practices that offer memory clinics, cognitive assessments, and care coordination programs would be particularly noteworthy. The analysis will scrutinize the practices' websites, patient reviews, and any publicly available data on their service offerings.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in evaluating healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Pinetown. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access specialists and receive consultations remotely. The analysis will assess the extent to which local physicians and practices utilize telemedicine for patient appointments, medication management, and follow-up care. This will involve researching the availability of telehealth platforms, the types of services offered remotely, and any barriers to access, such as technological limitations or insurance coverage issues.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Caregivers also face significant emotional and psychological strain. The analysis will examine the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the 27865 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. It will also assess the availability of support groups, counseling services, and other resources for both patients and caregivers.

The integration of these mental health services with primary care and specialist care is another critical aspect. Coordinated care, where mental health professionals work collaboratively with physicians, can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on caregivers. The analysis will investigate the degree to which local healthcare providers coordinate care and the availability of programs that facilitate this coordination.

Caregiver support is an essential component of Alzheimer's care. The analysis will evaluate the availability of respite care services, adult day care programs, and other resources that provide support and relief to caregivers. These services can help caregivers manage the demands of caregiving, reduce their stress levels, and prevent burnout. The analysis will also examine the availability of educational programs and support groups for caregivers, which can provide valuable information and emotional support.

The quality of local hospitals and long-term care facilities is also a factor. The analysis will examine the quality ratings of local hospitals and nursing homes, focusing on their performance in areas such as patient safety, staffing levels, and the provision of specialized care for individuals with dementia. The availability of skilled nursing facilities with dedicated memory care units is particularly important.

Based on these factors, an "Alzheimer's Score" will be assigned to the Pinetown area. This score will be a composite measure reflecting the overall availability, accessibility, and quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The score will be accompanied by recommendations for improvement, focusing on areas where resources are lacking or where improvements can be made.

This analysis is designed to be a dynamic document, updated periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new resources become available, or as existing resources are modified, the "Alzheimer's Score" will be adjusted accordingly. This will ensure that the assessment remains relevant and useful to residents, caregivers, and healthcare providers in the Pinetown area.

The goal is to provide actionable information that can be used to improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers in the 27865 ZIP code. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and advocate for improvements in the services available to them.

To visualize the data, analyze geographic patterns, and identify potential areas for improvement, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a clear and intuitive representation of healthcare resources within the Pinetown area, helping you to understand the "Alzheimer's Score" and its implications.