27878, Sharpsburg, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27878, Sharpsburg, North Carolina is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.37 percent of the residents in 27878 has some form of health insurance. 64.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.23 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 27878 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 303 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27878. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 203 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,435 health care providers accessible to residents in 27878, Sharpsburg, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Sharpsburg, NC (ZIP Code 27878)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within the Sharpsburg, North Carolina ZIP code 27878. We will assess the landscape of primary care physicians, mental health support, and telemedicine adoption, culminating in an Alzheimer's Score reflecting the overall preparedness of the community to address the needs of individuals and families affected by this debilitating illness. This analysis is intended to offer a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform both residents and healthcare providers.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care rests on accessible and competent primary care physicians. In Sharpsburg, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend suggests a potential shortage of primary care doctors compared to the national average. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and a diminished ability for physicians to dedicate sufficient time to patients with complex needs, including those experiencing cognitive decline. This directly impacts early detection and management of Alzheimer's.

A deeper dive into specific practices reveals a mixed picture. Some practices may demonstrate a greater emphasis on geriatric care, offering specialized services like memory screenings and cognitive assessments. These practices would likely receive a higher score in our analysis. Conversely, practices lacking these specific services, or those with limited staff trained in geriatric medicine, would likely receive a lower score. The presence of board-certified geriatricians or neurologists within the area is a significant positive indicator, as these specialists possess the expertise necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Beyond the availability of primary care, the presence of mental health resources is crucial. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists is essential for managing these symptoms and supporting both patients and their caregivers. The proximity of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups significantly impacts the overall quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's. A community with robust mental health resources receives a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those residing in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patient progress remotely, and provide educational resources online can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of care delivery. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine, particularly for cognitive assessments or medication management, would be favorably considered in the Alzheimer's Score. The availability of telehealth services, especially for mental health support, is also a key factor.

The Alzheimer's Score is not just about the availability of medical professionals; it also considers the broader community support network. This includes the presence of assisted living facilities, memory care units, and support groups for caregivers. The availability of respite care services, which provide temporary relief for caregivers, is also vital. A community that actively fosters these support systems demonstrates a greater commitment to addressing the multifaceted needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

The analysis also examines the level of community awareness and education regarding Alzheimer's disease. Public health initiatives, educational programs, and outreach efforts aimed at increasing awareness and reducing stigma are essential. Communities that actively promote these activities receive a higher score, reflecting a greater commitment to early detection, prevention, and support. The presence of organizations dedicated to Alzheimer's research, advocacy, and support within the community also contributes positively to the score.

Considering all these factors, the Alzheimer's Score for Sharpsburg (27878) is likely to be moderate. The potential shortage of primary care physicians, combined with the challenges of rural healthcare access, may limit the score. However, the presence of dedicated practices, mental health services, and a growing adoption of telemedicine could elevate the score. The overall score will ultimately depend on the specific resources available, the level of community support, and the commitment of healthcare providers to addressing the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

Primary care availability in Sharpsburg, as assessed through this analysis, highlights the need for strategic improvements. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. This could involve recruiting new physicians, expanding existing practices, or incentivizing healthcare professionals to specialize in geriatric care. Investing in telemedicine infrastructure and promoting its adoption can significantly improve access to care for those living in remote areas.

Furthermore, strengthening the mental health support network is critical. This involves increasing the availability of mental health professionals, expanding access to counseling services, and promoting support groups for both patients and caregivers. Community outreach and education programs are also essential to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease, reduce stigma, and encourage early detection.

The Alzheimer's Score is dynamic. It is a reflection of the current state of healthcare resources and community support. It is also a tool for identifying areas for improvement and advocating for change. Healthcare providers, community leaders, and residents can use this analysis to work collaboratively to create a more supportive and accessible environment for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

The findings of this analysis can be further explored and visualized using advanced mapping tools. To gain a comprehensive geographic understanding of healthcare resources in Sharpsburg and surrounding areas, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. These maps provide detailed location information on physicians, mental health facilities, support groups, and other essential services. Explore the CartoChrome maps to visualize the landscape of Alzheimer's care in Sharpsburg and empower yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your healthcare.