28334, Dunn, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28334, Dunn, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.19 percent of the residents in 28334 has some form of health insurance. 43.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.01 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 28334 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,966 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28334. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,965 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 632 health care providers accessible to residents in 28334, Dunn, North Carolina.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Dunn, NC (ZIP Code 28334)**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services in Dunn, North Carolina (ZIP code 28334), with a specific focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. This includes physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources. These elements are crucial for providing comprehensive support to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. The information is presented to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific area.

Dunn, NC, like many rural communities, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. One of the most significant is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and increased stress on existing healthcare providers. While precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratio data requires ongoing monitoring and is often not publicly available at a granular level, general trends can be observed. The overall availability of primary care physicians in the area is an important consideration.

Assessing the availability of primary care involves evaluating the number of family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and geriatricians practicing within the 28334 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. Geriatricians, in particular, are crucial for Alzheimer's care, as they possess specialized knowledge in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of age-related cognitive decline. The presence of these specialists is a key indicator of the capacity of the local healthcare system to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. This can be assessed by looking at factors such as patient reviews, the adoption of advanced technologies, and the availability of specialized services. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials, offer comprehensive memory care programs, and have a strong focus on caregiver support are often considered exemplary. Identifying these standout practices is critical for guiding patients and families toward the best possible care options.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Dunn is a significant factor in evaluating the quality of Alzheimer's care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and making it easier to receive timely care. The availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals are all important indicators of telemedicine adoption.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience a range of psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. Caregivers also face significant emotional and psychological challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is therefore crucial. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options further enhances the ability of the community to support those affected by Alzheimer's.

Evaluating the accessibility of mental health resources involves assessing the number of mental health providers in the area, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, and the existence of community-based support programs. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can improve the coordination of care and make it easier for patients and caregivers to access the support they need.

In addition to these factors, it is important to consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in Dunn. This includes the presence of hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and home healthcare agencies. The availability of these resources is essential for providing a continuum of care for individuals with Alzheimer's. The proximity of these facilities, the quality of care they provide, and their willingness to work collaboratively with primary care practices are all important considerations.

The availability of specialized memory care units within local hospitals or nursing homes is also a significant factor. These units are designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's, with staff trained in the unique needs of this population. The presence of these units can improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and reduce the burden on caregivers.

Furthermore, the level of community awareness and education about Alzheimer's disease is important. Community outreach programs, educational workshops, and support groups can help to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and empower individuals and families to cope with the challenges of Alzheimer's. The presence of these programs is a sign of a community that is committed to supporting those affected by the disease.

Ultimately, a comprehensive Alzheimer's Score for Dunn, NC (28334) would consider all of these factors, weighted according to their relative importance. The score would provide a valuable tool for patients, families, and healthcare providers to assess the quality and availability of Alzheimer's care in the area. Regular updates to the score would be essential to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare resources available in Dunn, NC (28334), including physician locations, practice specializations, and proximity to support services, consider using the mapping and data visualization tools offered by CartoChrome. These tools can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, helping you to identify the resources that are most relevant to your needs.