27973, Shawboro, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27973, Shawboro, North Carolina is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.36 percent of the residents in 27973 has some form of health insurance. 28.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.44 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 27973 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 202 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27973. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 240 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 214 health care providers accessible to residents in 27973, Shawboro, North Carolina.

The task of analyzing the "Alzheimer's Score" for physicians and primary care availability in Shawboro, North Carolina (ZIP code 27973), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care, considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. Due to the limitations of publicly available data and the need to protect patient privacy, this analysis will necessarily be based on general trends and publicly accessible information, constructing a hypothetical framework for understanding the situation.

The concept of an "Alzheimer's Score" isn't a standardized metric. Instead, we'll evaluate factors crucial for providing quality Alzheimer's care, including access to specialists, the integration of technology, and the availability of support services. Shawboro, a relatively small community, faces unique challenges in healthcare access.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental aspect of healthcare accessibility. In a rural area like Shawboro, the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and neurologists per capita is likely lower than in more urban settings. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced opportunities for preventative care. The availability of geriatricians, who specialize in the care of older adults, is particularly crucial for Alzheimer's patients. A low ratio of geriatricians to the elderly population would negatively impact the "Alzheimer's Score."

Standout practices would demonstrate several key characteristics. First, they would have a clear focus on geriatric care, potentially including specialized memory clinics or programs. Second, they would prioritize early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, offering cognitive assessments and access to advanced imaging techniques. Third, these practices would emphasize a patient-centered approach, involving families in the care process and providing education and support. Finally, they would have strong connections with local support groups and community resources.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and allow for more frequent monitoring of patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups, would score higher on the "Alzheimer's Score." The availability of reliable internet access in the Shawboro area is a crucial factor influencing the feasibility of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is essential. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have strong referral networks with mental health providers, would be considered more supportive. The existence of support groups for both patients and caregivers is also a critical component.

To evaluate the "Alzheimer's Score" for physicians in 27973, one would ideally assess the following: the number of PCPs, neurologists, and geriatricians practicing in the area; the availability of memory clinics or specialized Alzheimer's programs; the adoption of telemedicine; the integration of mental health services; and the presence of support groups. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a patient-centered approach, and the integration of technology and support services.

Primary care availability in Shawboro is directly related to the "Alzheimer's Score." Limited access to primary care can hinder early detection and management of the disease. The presence of a strong primary care network, including practices that are accepting new patients, is essential. These PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline, providing referrals to specialists and coordinating care.

The availability of home healthcare services is another crucial factor. Alzheimer's patients often require assistance with daily living activities, and home healthcare can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the burden on caregivers. The availability of skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities in the area is also relevant, providing options for patients who require more intensive care.

Furthermore, the involvement of the local hospital is important. A hospital with a dedicated geriatric unit, a memory care program, or strong partnerships with specialists would positively influence the "Alzheimer's Score." The hospital's commitment to community outreach and education about Alzheimer's disease would also be a significant factor.

Analyzing the "Alzheimer's Score" requires a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Shawboro. While a definitive score cannot be provided without specific data, the factors outlined above provide a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of Alzheimer's care. The availability of specialists, the integration of technology, the presence of mental health resources, and the strength of the primary care network are all crucial components.

In conclusion, understanding the healthcare dynamics of a rural area like Shawboro, NC, is complex. The "Alzheimer's Score" is a multifaceted evaluation, not a simple number. It reflects the collective strength of the healthcare system in providing accessible, patient-centered care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Shawboro and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the data using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data, providing a valuable tool for understanding healthcare access and identifying potential gaps in care.