28330, Cordova, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28330, Cordova, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 61.64 percent of the residents in 28330 has some form of health insurance. 53.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 25.09 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 28330 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28330. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 141 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 682 health care providers accessible to residents in 28330, Cordova, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Cordova, NC (ZIP Code 28330)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality for Alzheimer's patients within Cordova, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28330) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will consider primary care physician availability, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized Alzheimer's care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment. This score, though subjective, aims to provide a realistic overview of the challenges and opportunities for individuals and families navigating this complex disease within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care lies within the primary care system. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is crucial for initial diagnosis, ongoing management, and referral to specialists. In Cordova, the primary care landscape needs thorough investigation. Assessing the number of PCPs practicing within the 28330 ZIP code is the first step. This data, however, only tells a portion of the story. The patient-to-physician ratio is a critical factor. A high ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, less comprehensive care. Publicly available data from organizations like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Department of Health & Human Services can provide insights into these ratios, although granular, ZIP code-specific data may require further investigation.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. Are physicians in Cordova equipped with the knowledge and resources to recognize early signs of cognitive decline? Do they routinely administer cognitive assessments, or have they developed protocols for screening patients at risk? The presence of PCPs who have specialized training in geriatric care or dementia management would significantly enhance the quality of care available. This could be determined through physician profiles, practice websites, and potentially, through patient reviews, though these reviews should be carefully vetted.

The presence of dedicated Alzheimer's specialists, such as neurologists or geriatricians, within or near the 28330 ZIP code is another critical factor. Access to these specialists is often crucial for accurate diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and participation in clinical trials. If specialists are not readily available within Cordova, the distance to the nearest specialists in surrounding towns or cities becomes a significant consideration. Travel time and transportation limitations can pose major obstacles for patients and their caregivers, especially as the disease progresses.

Telemedicine has the potential to bridge geographical gaps and improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Cordova. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in the area should be evaluated. Are virtual consultations available? Do physicians use remote monitoring technologies? The availability of telemedicine can significantly improve the convenience and accessibility of care, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management. However, the digital literacy of both patients and physicians, as well as the availability of reliable internet access, are crucial factors that can impact the effectiveness of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Both patients and caregivers often experience significant emotional distress, including depression, anxiety, and grief. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is therefore crucial. Assessing the number of mental health providers practicing in the area, along with their specializations and experience in working with dementia patients and their families, is essential. Support groups, counseling services, and respite care programs are also vital components of a comprehensive care plan.

Standout practices within the 28330 ZIP code should be identified. These practices may have implemented innovative approaches to dementia care, such as specialized memory clinics, caregiver support programs, or partnerships with local community organizations. Highlighting these practices can serve as a model for other providers and provide valuable information for patients and their families seeking quality care. This analysis will also consider the practices' willingness to collaborate with other healthcare providers, including specialists, home health agencies, and community resources.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Cordova, NC (28330) would be based on the following factors, with each factor weighted according to its importance:

* **Primary Care Physician Availability & Ratio:** (30%) – Number of PCPs, patient-to-physician ratio, and their expertise in geriatric care.
* **Specialist Access:** (25%) – Presence of neurologists, geriatricians, and their proximity to Cordova.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** (15%) – Availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **Mental Health Resources:** (20%) – Availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and support groups.
* **Standout Practices & Community Partnerships:** (10%) – Presence of specialized clinics, caregiver support, and collaborations with local organizations.

Based on the assessment of these factors, a score would be assigned, ranging from poor to excellent, reflecting the overall accessibility and quality of Alzheimer's care in Cordova.

The challenges of Alzheimer's disease in a rural setting like Cordova are undeniable. However, the availability of information and resources can be improved. The need for increased awareness, physician training, and community support is paramount. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the current state of care and identifying areas for improvement.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources and their proximity to residents in Cordova, NC (28330), explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide a visual representation of physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant resources, enhancing your understanding of the healthcare landscape.