27917, Barco, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27917, Barco, North Carolina is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 71.86 percent of the residents in 27917 has some form of health insurance. 44.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 28.71 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 27917 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 93 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27917. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 19 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,083 health care providers accessible to residents in 27917, Barco, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Barco, NC (ZIP Code 27917)

Analyzing the availability of care for individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease within the Barco, North Carolina (ZIP code 27917) area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," considers various factors crucial for effective diagnosis, treatment, and support, including the availability and quality of primary care physicians, access to specialists, integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. This score isn't a single number, but rather a comprehensive assessment of the strengths and weaknesses within the community's healthcare infrastructure.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests on the shoulders of primary care physicians. In Barco, assessing the "primary care availability" is paramount. This involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio within the ZIP code. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, presents a significant challenge. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial early detection and intervention. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive monitoring of cognitive health. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau can provide insights into these ratios, though the data must be interpreted cautiously, accounting for factors like physician specialization and patient demographics.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This encompasses the physicians' experience in geriatric medicine, their familiarity with Alzheimer's diagnostic tools (like cognitive assessments), and their willingness to collaborate with specialists. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education related to dementia care and maintain a network of referral partners are likely to provide a higher standard of care. The "Alzheimer's Score" would therefore consider these factors, evaluating the practices' commitment to specialized training and their integration into a broader care ecosystem.

Specialist access is a critical component. Neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists play vital roles in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's. The geographical proximity of these specialists to Barco residents is a significant consideration. Long travel distances can create barriers to care, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or cognitive impairments. The analysis must assess the availability of these specialists within a reasonable radius, considering factors like appointment wait times and the availability of transportation assistance.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Barco. The "Alzheimer's Score" would evaluate the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially reduce travel burdens, increase the frequency of patient contact, and facilitate quicker access to specialist opinions. Examining the availability of telehealth platforms, the training of physicians in telehealth protocols, and the availability of technical support for patients are crucial elements of this assessment.

Mental health resources are an indispensable part of the care landscape. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore crucial. The "Alzheimer's Score" would consider the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group support), and the availability of specialized programs for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Collaboration between primary care physicians, neurologists, and mental health professionals is a critical element of successful care.

Identifying standout practices within the 27917 ZIP code is also important. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care through specific initiatives. This could include dedicated memory care clinics, participation in clinical trials, offering caregiver support groups, or utilizing innovative diagnostic tools. The analysis would identify and highlight these practices, recognizing their contributions to the community's overall Alzheimer's care infrastructure.

The "Alzheimer's Score" also considers the presence of community resources. This includes support groups for patients and caregivers, educational programs about Alzheimer's disease, and access to respite care services. These resources provide essential support for individuals living with Alzheimer's and their families, helping them navigate the challenges of the disease. The analysis would assess the availability and accessibility of these resources, considering factors like cost, location, and the languages offered.

Moreover, the analysis would take into account the local healthcare system's awareness and responsiveness to the needs of Alzheimer's patients. This includes evaluating the availability of specialized programs, such as memory care units in local hospitals or nursing homes. The presence of these specialized facilities can significantly improve the quality of care and provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with advanced stages of the disease.

Finally, the "Alzheimer's Score" would consider the overall demographics of the 27917 ZIP code. The age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic status of residents can all impact the demand for Alzheimer's care and the ability of individuals to access it. The analysis would incorporate these demographic factors to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the community's needs.

In conclusion, evaluating the Alzheimer's care landscape in Barco, NC (27917) requires a thorough examination of primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support systems. This "Alzheimer's Score" analysis, though complex, is crucial for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare infrastructure and for identifying areas where improvements are needed. The goal is to create a more supportive environment for individuals living with Alzheimer's and their families.

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