28367, Norman, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28367, Norman, North Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.74 percent of the residents in 28367 has some form of health insurance. 52.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.26 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 28367 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 74 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28367. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 29 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,631 health care providers accessible to residents in 28367, Norman, North Carolina.

This analysis will assess the healthcare landscape for Alzheimer's care within the ZIP code 28367 (likely referring to Raeford, North Carolina), and the primary care availability in Norman, Oklahoma. The evaluation will consider factors relevant to Alzheimer's care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. It will not produce a numerical "Alzheimer's Score" in the traditional sense, but rather a qualitative assessment based on available information. The scope is limited by the inherent constraints of publicly available data and the dynamic nature of healthcare services.

**28367 (Raeford, NC) – Alzheimer's Care Landscape**

Raeford, North Carolina, falls within Hoke County. Assessing Alzheimer's care in this area requires examining the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists involved in diagnosis and management. A critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining this precisely is challenging without specific local data. However, general population data and county-level statistics can provide a rough estimate. For example, if Hoke County has a relatively low number of PCPs per capita compared to state or national averages, access to initial assessments and ongoing care for Alzheimer's patients may be limited.

The presence of neurologists and geriatricians is particularly important. These specialists are crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease. If these specialists are scarce or require long wait times for appointments, it creates significant challenges for timely care. The availability of specialized memory clinics or centers within the area, or within a reasonable driving distance, is also a positive indicator. These centers often provide comprehensive diagnostic services, support groups, and access to clinical trials.

Standout practices in the area could be identified through patient reviews, online directories, and referrals from local hospitals or community organizations. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer comprehensive services, and demonstrate expertise in Alzheimer's management are likely to be considered "standout." This might involve providing cognitive assessments, medication management, caregiver support, and education.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, or medication management can significantly improve patient convenience and access. This is particularly important for patients with mobility issues or those who live far from specialists. The availability of telemedicine services can also help reduce the burden on caregivers.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Caregivers also face significant emotional and psychological stress. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), is crucial. These professionals can provide individual therapy, family therapy, and support groups for both patients and caregivers. The presence of support groups specifically for Alzheimer's caregivers is a positive sign of community support.

**Primary Care Availability in Norman, Oklahoma**

Norman, Oklahoma, a city with a significant population, presents a different healthcare landscape. Primary care availability is a crucial factor in the initial assessment and ongoing management of Alzheimer's disease. A higher physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access to primary care. However, this is only one factor. The distribution of physicians within the city, the acceptance of new patients, and the insurance plans accepted by the practices are also important considerations.

The characteristics of primary care practices in Norman are also important. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments are more accessible. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can improve communication and coordination of care. Practices that emphasize preventive care and chronic disease management are also beneficial.

Telemedicine adoption is relevant in Norman, though perhaps less critical than in a rural setting. Telemedicine can still improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those who prefer the convenience of virtual appointments. The availability of telemedicine services for primary care, specialist consultations, and mental health services is a positive indicator.

Mental health resources are equally important in Norman. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and LCSWs, is crucial for addressing the mental health needs of both Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. The presence of specialized memory clinics or geriatric psychiatry services within the city or the surrounding area is also a positive sign.

**Conclusion**

Assessing the quality and accessibility of Alzheimer's care requires a multifaceted approach. Factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialists, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall care landscape. While this analysis provides a general overview, a more detailed assessment would require specific data on physician availability, practice characteristics, and resource utilization within each location. This data is often proprietary and difficult to obtain. However, the factors outlined above offer a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities in Alzheimer's care.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare resources and their distribution, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. They can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, aiding in the identification of potential gaps in care and areas of high need.