27937, Gates, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27937, Gates, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.37 percent of the residents in 27937 has some form of health insurance. 35.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.42 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 27937 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 766 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27937. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 671 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 475 health care providers accessible to residents in 27937, Gates, North Carolina.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Gates County, NC (ZIP Code 27937)**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of healthcare accessibility and resources for individuals in Gates County, North Carolina, specifically focusing on ZIP code 27937, with an emphasis on Alzheimer's care. The evaluation considers primary care physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other factors that contribute to the overall quality of care for those affected by Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in addressing the complex needs of this population.

Gates County is a rural area, and rural healthcare often presents unique challenges. One of the most significant hurdles is the availability of primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. While specific physician-to-patient ratios for ZIP code 27937 are difficult to pinpoint precisely without proprietary data, county-level data often reveals a shortage of primary care providers compared to more urban areas. This scarcity directly impacts the ability of individuals to receive timely and comprehensive care, which is particularly critical for early detection and management of Alzheimer's.

The availability of primary care physicians is only one piece of the puzzle. The quality of care, the expertise of the providers, and the integration of care are also important factors. The presence of board-certified geriatricians or physicians with specialized training in Alzheimer's disease is a significant advantage. These specialists possess a deeper understanding of the disease, its progression, and the various treatment options available. They can also provide valuable support and guidance to both patients and their families. Identifying standout practices in the area requires a closer look at their staffing, services offered, and patient outcomes. This information is often available through patient reviews, healthcare directories, and professional organizations.

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to the challenges of rural healthcare. It allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be readily available in the local area. The adoption of telemedicine technologies, such as video consultations and remote monitoring, is crucial for providing timely and convenient care to Alzheimer's patients. This is especially important for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to caregivers. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices and specialists in ZIP code 27937 is essential for determining the accessibility of virtual care options.

Mental health resources are another critical component of Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's disease often comes with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms and improving the overall quality of life for both patients and caregivers. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and other mental health resources in the local area is an important indicator of the healthcare system's ability to address the complex needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

Beyond the availability of medical and mental health services, the presence of community-based resources plays a vital role in supporting Alzheimer's patients and their families. These resources may include adult day care centers, respite care services, and home healthcare agencies. These services provide caregivers with much-needed support and allow patients to maintain their independence for as long as possible. The availability of these community resources is a key factor in assessing the overall quality of care for Alzheimer's patients in ZIP code 27937.

The overall 'Alzheimer's Score' for the area would depend on a comprehensive assessment of all these factors. The score would likely be influenced by the limited number of primary care physicians, the potential for reduced access to specialists, and the availability of telemedicine options and mental health resources. The score would also reflect the presence and accessibility of community-based support services.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Gates County requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves gathering data on physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community-based support services. It also involves considering the unique challenges of rural healthcare, such as transportation barriers and limited access to specialized care. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare system's ability to meet the complex needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gates County, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility in ZIP code 27937.