27944, Hertford, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27944, Hertford, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.86 percent of the residents in 27944 has some form of health insurance. 49.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.37 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 27944 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27944. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,278 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,210 health care providers accessible to residents in 27944, Hertford, North Carolina.

The task of assessing healthcare quality, particularly concerning Alzheimer's care and primary care accessibility, within a specific geographic area demands a multifaceted approach. Focusing on ZIP Code 27944 (Hertford, North Carolina) and the broader context of Hertford County, this analysis aims to provide an 'Alzheimer's Score' evaluation, considering various factors impacting patient care.

The core of this assessment lies in understanding the physician landscape. While a precise ranking of individual doctors is complex without detailed access to patient outcomes and practice-specific data, several key metrics can provide a valuable overview. Physician-to-patient ratios are paramount. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the early detection and ongoing management of Alzheimer's disease. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a given population, can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced access to preventative care, and increased strain on existing healthcare resources. This is particularly concerning in rural areas like Hertford County, where physician shortages are often more pronounced.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care practices is crucial. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer comprehensive geriatric assessments, including cognitive screenings? Do they have established protocols for managing patients with memory concerns? Practices that prioritize these aspects, including a proactive approach to screening for cognitive decline, would score higher in our 'Alzheimer's Score' assessment. The presence of specialized geriatricians or neurologists within the area, even if not directly within the primary care network, would also positively influence the score, providing access to specialized expertise.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care. Practices embracing telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources for patients and caregivers, would receive a higher score. This is especially important for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas, making it easier to access specialists and receive ongoing support. The availability of telehealth services can significantly enhance the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their families.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, requiring access to mental health professionals. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups within Hertford County is a critical factor. Practices that actively collaborate with mental health providers, facilitating referrals and integrated care, would be favorably evaluated. The presence of memory care units or assisted living facilities with specialized Alzheimer's programs also contributes positively to the overall score.

Specific practices within 27944 and Hertford County are difficult to rank definitively without proprietary data. However, some indicators can suggest potential standouts. Practices with long-standing reputations for patient-centered care, those actively involved in community outreach and education related to Alzheimer's, and those that consistently receive positive patient reviews are likely to be strong contenders. Practices that participate in research or clinical trials related to Alzheimer's would also demonstrate a commitment to advancing care.

The 'Alzheimer's Score' for 27944 and Hertford County would be negatively impacted by factors such as a high percentage of elderly residents, limited access to transportation, and socioeconomic disparities that can affect healthcare access. These factors necessitate a comprehensive approach to care, requiring collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies.

The analysis of primary care availability in Hertford County is interwoven with the Alzheimer's score. The more readily available and accessible primary care is, the better the chances of early diagnosis, effective management, and improved quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's. This includes factors such as insurance acceptance, language accessibility, and the availability of after-hours care.

The overall 'Alzheimer's Score' would reflect a complex interplay of these factors. It is a dynamic assessment, subject to change as healthcare resources evolve. Regular monitoring and evaluation are crucial to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents of Hertford County receive the best possible care.

In conclusion, assessing healthcare quality in a rural area like Hertford County requires a nuanced understanding of resource availability, practice characteristics, and community needs. The 'Alzheimer's Score' is a valuable tool for evaluating the overall health of the healthcare ecosystem.

To gain a visual representation of healthcare access in Hertford County, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and informative view of the healthcare landscape.