Health Scores Near 28054, Gastonia, North Carolina
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28054, Gastonia, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 88.11 percent of the residents in 28054 has some form of health insurance. 39.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.87 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 28054 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 9,146 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 19 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28054. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,488 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 16,143 health care providers accessible to residents in 28054, Gastonia, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28054, Gastonia, North Carolina
| Alzheimers Score | 21 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 7 |
| Provider Score | 57 |
| Hospital Score | 40 |
| Travel Score | 43 |
| 28054 | Gastonia | North Carolina | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Gastonia, NC (ZIP Code 28054)
This analysis evaluates the landscape of Alzheimer's care within Gastonia, North Carolina (ZIP code 28054), focusing on primary care availability and the resources accessible to individuals and families navigating this challenging disease. We will assess the quality of care based on factors relevant to Alzheimer's management, providing an "Alzheimer's Score" reflecting the area's strengths and weaknesses. This score is not a numerical value, but a qualitative assessment based on the available data.
**Primary Care Landscape and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**
Gastonia, like many communities, faces the ongoing challenge of ensuring adequate primary care physician (PCP) access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of care accessibility. Unfortunately, precise, up-to-the-minute ratios for 28054 are difficult to obtain publicly. However, regional data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) and the US Census Bureau, combined with publicly available physician directories, provide a general picture. These sources suggest a potential shortage of PCPs in some areas of Gaston County, which could translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially limited access to preventative care, crucial for early detection and management of Alzheimer's.
The availability of PCPs directly impacts Alzheimer's care. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for cognitive concerns. They can perform initial assessments, refer patients to specialists (neurologists, geriatricians), and manage co-existing health conditions that can exacerbate Alzheimer's symptoms. A scarcity of PCPs can delay diagnosis and treatment, potentially impacting the quality of life for patients and their families.
**Standout Practices and their Contributions:**
Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating factors like specialized training, patient reviews, and the availability of comprehensive services. While a definitive list is impossible without comprehensive data, certain practices within or serving the 28054 area likely stand out. These practices may have physicians with specific expertise in geriatrics or neurology, offering specialized diagnostic tools and treatment options.
Furthermore, practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education and family support are particularly valuable. Alzheimer's care extends beyond medical treatment, encompassing emotional, social, and practical support for both the patient and their caregivers. Practices that offer support groups, educational workshops, and resources for navigating the complexities of the disease are highly beneficial.
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**
Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations with PCPs, neurologists, and therapists, significantly enhances access to care. This is particularly relevant for Alzheimer's patients, as virtual appointments can reduce the burden of travel and provide convenient access to ongoing monitoring and support.
The level of telemedicine adoption varies among practices in 28054. Some may offer robust telehealth platforms, including secure video conferencing and remote monitoring capabilities. Others may be in the early stages of adopting telehealth, potentially limiting its availability. The expansion of telehealth infrastructure and its integration into existing care models is essential for improving Alzheimer's care access in the region.
**Mental Health Resources and their Importance:**
The link between mental health and Alzheimer's is significant. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are common among individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Access to mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore crucial.
The availability of mental health resources in 28054, including the presence of mental health clinics, therapists specializing in geriatric care, and support groups for caregivers, directly impacts the quality of care. These resources provide vital support for managing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with Alzheimer's. Access to these resources can improve the quality of life for both patients and their families, and can also contribute to better management of the disease.
**Overall Assessment and the "Alzheimer's Score":**
Based on the factors discussed, the "Alzheimer's Score" for 28054 reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of specialized practices and the potential for telemedicine adoption offers promise, the challenges of physician-to-patient ratios and the need for expanded mental health resources remain. The score suggests a need for ongoing efforts to improve access to comprehensive Alzheimer's care.
**Recommendations:**
* **Increase PCP Availability:** Efforts to recruit and retain primary care physicians in the area are essential. This could involve incentives for physicians to practice in underserved areas and partnerships with medical schools.
* **Expand Telemedicine Infrastructure:** Support the adoption of telemedicine technologies by practices in the area. This includes providing training, funding, and technical assistance.
* **Strengthen Mental Health Services:** Increase the availability of mental health professionals specializing in geriatric care. Promote the establishment of support groups for both patients and caregivers.
* **Enhance Community Education:** Raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease through educational programs and outreach initiatives.
**Conclusion:**
Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease requires a comprehensive understanding of the available resources. The availability of quality primary care, specialized medical professionals, and mental health support are critical. Understanding the landscape of care in a specific geographic area is the first step towards making informed decisions.
**Call to Action:**
To further explore the healthcare landscape in Gastonia (28054) and visualize the distribution of resources, including physicians, clinics, and support services, visit CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you identify healthcare providers, assess accessibility, and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.
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