28327, Carthage, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28327, Carthage, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.58 percent of the residents in 28327 has some form of health insurance. 30.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.02 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 28327 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,924 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28327. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,806 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,043 health care providers accessible to residents in 28327, Carthage, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Carthage, NC (ZIP Code 28327)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 28327, focusing on primary care physicians and related services in Carthage, North Carolina. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for early diagnosis, management, and support for individuals and families affected by this debilitating condition. This assessment is not a definitive medical recommendation but rather a snapshot of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Carthage, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures are dynamic, publicly available data, such as that from the US Department of Health & Human Services, can provide estimates. This data, combined with information from local healthcare providers and community resources, will help to understand the availability of primary care physicians relative to the population size of 28327. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can present a significant challenge for timely access to appointments, essential for early detection and ongoing management of Alzheimer's. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, potentially leading to improved outcomes.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the expertise of physicians in recognizing and addressing cognitive decline. The Alzheimer's Score considers the prevalence of board-certified family physicians and internists in the area. These specialists are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing memory problems. Their training and experience in managing complex medical conditions, including those associated with Alzheimer's, are essential. The score also assesses the availability of geriatric specialists, who possess specialized knowledge of age-related cognitive changes and the unique needs of older adults.

Standout practices within the 28327 ZIP code will be identified based on several factors. This includes the presence of dedicated memory care programs, comprehensive diagnostic services (such as cognitive assessments and access to imaging), and a commitment to patient education and support. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials related to Alzheimer's research may also receive higher marks. The score will also consider the availability of care coordination services, which are crucial for navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care, from diagnosis to treatment and long-term support.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital component of the Alzheimer's Score. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and support groups, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The analysis will evaluate the extent to which primary care practices in Carthage offer telemedicine options, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups. Practices with robust telemedicine infrastructure and a commitment to virtual care will be rated more favorably.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The emotional and psychological impact of the disease on both patients and caregivers is profound. The Alzheimer's Score will assess the availability of mental health services within the 28327 ZIP code, including access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The presence of specialized programs for individuals with dementia and their families, such as support groups, respite care, and counseling services, will be considered. The score will also evaluate the integration of mental health services into primary care practices, which can facilitate early detection and intervention for mental health issues.

The analysis will also take into account the availability of community resources. This includes the presence of local chapters of the Alzheimer's Association, which provide education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by the disease. The score will consider the availability of adult day care centers, assisted living facilities with memory care units, and other community-based services that can provide support and respite for caregivers. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

The Alzheimer's Score will also evaluate the ease of access to prescription medications. This will include the proximity of pharmacies, the availability of medication assistance programs, and the ability of primary care practices to manage medication regimens effectively. The score will also consider the availability of home healthcare services, which can provide support and assistance to individuals with Alzheimer's in their homes.

The final Alzheimer's Score will be a composite measure, reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease in the 28327 ZIP code. The score will be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above, with each factor assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The score will be presented as a numerical value, with a higher score indicating a more favorable healthcare environment for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

The analysis will aim to be as comprehensive and up-to-date as possible, but it is important to note that healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving. The information presented in this analysis is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Individuals seeking healthcare services should always consult with their primary care physician or other qualified healthcare professionals.

This analysis highlights the importance of readily available information about healthcare resources. Understanding the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, telemedicine options, mental health services, and community support is crucial for individuals and families facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. It's also important to note that this analysis is limited to the scope of the available data and may not reflect all aspects of the healthcare environment in Carthage.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Carthage, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, pharmacies, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources in the 28327 ZIP code, allowing you to easily identify and locate the services you need.