28320, Bladenboro, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28320, Bladenboro, North Carolina is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.98 percent of the residents in 28320 has some form of health insurance. 42.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.73 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 28320 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,985 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28320. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,121 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,334 health care providers accessible to residents in 28320, Bladenboro, North Carolina.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28320 and Primary Care Availability in Bladenboro**

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning Alzheimer's care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on doctors within the 28320 ZIP code, encompassing Bladenboro, North Carolina, and the primary care landscape’s ability to address the needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, noteworthy practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in an assessment of the area's preparedness for this growing public health challenge.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. In Bladenboro (28320), the precise physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians and neurologists is difficult to ascertain without specific, real-time data. However, Bladen County, in general, is a rural area, and rural areas often face shortages of healthcare professionals. This suggests that the ratio is likely higher (fewer doctors per patient) than in more urbanized regions. This scarcity presents a significant challenge for individuals seeking timely assessments and ongoing care related to Alzheimer's.

Identifying standout practices requires looking beyond simple numbers. We need to examine the quality of care, the experience of physicians, and the availability of specialized services. While specific practice names and performance metrics are not readily available in this general analysis, it is crucial to seek out practices with a demonstrated commitment to geriatric care and cognitive health. This includes practices that have physicians with board certifications in geriatrics, neurology, or related fields. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's disease demonstrate a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in treatment and care.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in improving access to care, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding the reach of specialists. The adoption rate of telemedicine in Bladenboro is difficult to gauge precisely. However, the general trend in healthcare is toward increased telemedicine use, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Practices that have embraced telemedicine offer a significant advantage, allowing patients to access consultations, medication management, and support services from the comfort of their homes. This is particularly valuable for individuals with mobility issues or those who live far from specialized care centers.

The availability of mental health resources is another crucial element in the Alzheimer's care landscape. Alzheimer's disease not only affects the individual but also has a profound impact on caregivers and family members. Mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and psychiatric care, are essential for managing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with the disease. The availability of these resources in Bladenboro is another area that requires careful investigation. Rural areas often face shortages of mental health professionals, and this can create significant barriers to accessing needed support.

Addressing the challenges of Alzheimer's care in Bladenboro requires a comprehensive strategy. This includes efforts to recruit and retain healthcare professionals, expand telemedicine capabilities, and increase the availability of mental health resources. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential. Public awareness campaigns can help to educate the community about Alzheimer's disease, reduce stigma, and promote early detection.

The absence of readily available data regarding specific practice performance, physician-to-patient ratios, and the precise extent of telemedicine adoption makes a definitive “Alzheimer's Score” challenging. However, based on the general characteristics of rural healthcare and the known challenges of Alzheimer's care, we can infer a likely score. Bladenboro, with its rural setting, probably faces challenges in access to specialized care, including neurologists and geriatricians. Telemedicine adoption may be present but potentially limited compared to more urban areas. Mental health resources may be scarce. Therefore, based on these factors, the overall preparedness for Alzheimer's care in Bladenboro likely falls in the moderate to below-average range.

To improve this score, Bladenboro and the surrounding region must actively pursue strategies to improve healthcare access and quality. This includes efforts to attract and retain healthcare professionals, expand telemedicine capabilities, and increase the availability of mental health resources. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential. Public awareness campaigns can help to educate the community about Alzheimer's disease, reduce stigma, and promote early detection.

For a more precise assessment of healthcare resources in Bladenboro and the surrounding area, including physician locations, practice specializations, and telemedicine availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare providers and their services, helping you to identify the resources available in your community and plan for your healthcare needs.