28340, Fairmont, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.79 percent of the residents in 28340 has some form of health insurance. 57.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.72 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 28340 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,975 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28340. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,044 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,305 health care providers accessible to residents in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge, particularly in areas with aging populations and limited access to healthcare. Analyzing the availability and quality of care for individuals in Fairmont, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28340), is crucial for understanding the community's preparedness to address this growing health concern. This analysis will delve into the landscape of primary care physicians, their capacity to manage Alzheimer's patients, and the support systems available within the area.

Fairmont, North Carolina, situated in Robeson County, reflects a demographic profile that necessitates careful consideration of Alzheimer's care. The population, like many rural communities, tends to have a higher proportion of older adults. This fact alone increases the probability of individuals developing Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Furthermore, socioeconomic factors can influence access to care and the quality of life for those affected.

Assessing the availability of primary care physicians is the first step in understanding the community's ability to manage Alzheimer's. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a lower likelihood of early diagnosis and effective management of Alzheimer's. Data from healthcare databases and local resources should be examined to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 28340. This analysis will consider both general practitioners and internal medicine specialists, as they are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline.

Beyond the raw numbers, the capacity of existing primary care practices to address Alzheimer's must be assessed. This includes the training and experience of the physicians in diagnosing and managing the disease. Are physicians equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment protocols? Do they have experience in working with patients and families affected by Alzheimer's? Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) programs focused on dementia care should be viewed favorably.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, especially in rural areas where access to in-person appointments can be challenging. Virtual consultations can facilitate early diagnosis, provide ongoing monitoring, and offer support to caregivers. The presence of telemedicine capabilities within primary care practices in Fairmont, and their utilization rates, should be investigated. This includes examining the availability of virtual appointments for initial consultations, follow-up visits, and medication management.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often brings about significant emotional and psychological challenges for both patients and their families. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists is essential for managing these issues. The availability of these specialists within Fairmont and the surrounding areas should be evaluated. This includes the number of mental health professionals, their areas of expertise, and their willingness to work with patients with Alzheimer's and their families. Support groups and counseling services specifically tailored to Alzheimer's are also vital resources.

Standout practices within the community deserve special recognition. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive Alzheimer's care should be identified. This includes those that offer specialized memory clinics, participate in research studies, or actively collaborate with community organizations to provide support services. These practices serve as models for others and can significantly improve the quality of care available to residents.

The role of community organizations in supporting Alzheimer's patients and their families cannot be overstated. The presence of organizations like the Alzheimer's Association or local chapters of other dementia-focused groups is a positive sign. These organizations provide education, support groups, and resources for caregivers. They can also advocate for policies that improve the quality of life for those living with Alzheimer's.

The analysis should also consider the availability of assisted living facilities and nursing homes within the area. These facilities provide specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The quality of care provided by these facilities, as well as their capacity to meet the needs of the community, is a critical factor in assessing the overall Alzheimer's care landscape.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of specialized services, such as geriatric care managers, who can assist families in navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care. These professionals can provide guidance on everything from medical care to financial planning and legal issues.

The socioeconomic factors within Fairmont must be considered. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to healthy food can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. The analysis should assess the availability of programs and services that address these issues, such as transportation assistance, food banks, and financial aid programs.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of Alzheimer's care in Fairmont, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28340), requires a multifaceted approach. The analysis should consider physician-to-patient ratios, the training and experience of physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of community support organizations, and the availability of specialized care facilities. By evaluating these factors, a clearer picture of the community's preparedness to address the challenges of Alzheimer's disease can be developed.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources and demographic data in Fairmont, North Carolina, and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Gain insights into physician locations, facility locations, and population density related to Alzheimer's care. Visit CartoChrome to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fairmont.