28394, Vass, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28394, Vass, North Carolina is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.45 percent of the residents in 28394 has some form of health insurance. 40.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.80 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 28394 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,246 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28394. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,031 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,707 health care providers accessible to residents in 28394, Vass, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 28394 & Primary Care in Vass

This analysis evaluates the landscape of Alzheimer's care within ZIP code 28394, encompassing the town of Vass, North Carolina, focusing on primary care accessibility and related resources. The objective is to provide an 'Alzheimer's Score' assessment, considering factors crucial for individuals and families navigating this challenging disease. This score is not a definitive ranking but a comparative evaluation based on available data and publicly accessible information.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Accessibility:**

A critical element in Alzheimer's care is timely access to primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors often serve as the initial point of contact for cognitive concerns and play a crucial role in diagnosis, management, and referral to specialists. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. While precise, real-time data is often proprietary, publicly available information like the US Census Bureau and state medical board registries can provide estimates. ZIP code 28394, being a relatively small area, might present challenges in terms of physician density. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, could indicate potential difficulties in securing appointments, particularly for new patients or those with complex needs. This is a significant consideration for individuals experiencing early cognitive decline, where prompt evaluation is vital.

Primary care availability in Vass, a smaller community within the ZIP code, is another key factor. The presence of local clinics and practices offering comprehensive primary care services directly impacts accessibility. Factors such as the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the availability of same-day or urgent care appointments, and the proximity of these services to residential areas contribute to the overall accessibility score. Limited primary care access could lead to delayed diagnoses and management, impacting the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices within the 28394 area is vital. This involves looking beyond the basic metrics and examining the specific services offered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care often incorporate several key features. These include:

* **Specialized training:** Physicians and staff trained in geriatric care and cognitive assessment are better equipped to identify and manage Alzheimer's.
* **Memory clinics:** Dedicated memory clinics within a practice, or a network of practices, often provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, including neuropsychological testing and brain imaging referrals.
* **Care coordination:** Practices that offer care coordination services, such as connecting patients and families with support groups, social workers, and home health agencies, are invaluable.
* **Patient education:** Providing educational resources and support for caregivers is crucial for managing the disease effectively.
* **Emphasis on preventive care:** Practices that focus on preventive care, including regular cognitive screenings for at-risk patients, can contribute to early detection.

The presence of such features would significantly elevate a practice's score and overall contribution to Alzheimer's care within the community.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Significance:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for populations with limited mobility or geographical constraints. Its adoption within the 28394 area is a critical consideration. Practices offering telehealth appointments can significantly improve access to care for individuals with Alzheimer's, especially those in the early stages of the disease who may find it difficult to travel for in-person visits. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients, allowing physicians to track symptoms and adjust treatment plans as needed.

The extent of telemedicine adoption can be assessed by looking at the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered through telehealth (e.g., medication management, counseling), and the technological infrastructure in place to support these services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to score higher in terms of accessibility and convenience, ultimately contributing to better care for patients and their families.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Role:**

Alzheimer's disease significantly impacts mental health, both for the individual with the disease and for their caregivers. Access to mental health resources is therefore crucial. This includes:

* **Psychiatrists and psychologists:** Availability of specialists trained in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions associated with Alzheimer's, such as depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbances.
* **Counseling and therapy:** Access to individual and group therapy for both patients and caregivers.
* **Support groups:** The presence of local support groups for caregivers is essential for providing emotional support, sharing experiences, and accessing practical advice.
* **Community mental health services:** Availability of community-based mental health services, such as crisis intervention and case management.

The availability of these resources within the 28394 area directly impacts the overall Alzheimer's score. A robust network of mental health services is vital for addressing the complex emotional and psychological needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

**Alzheimer's Score Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed, the Alzheimer's Score for ZIP code 28394 and primary care availability in Vass would be determined by a comprehensive analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices with specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score is not a single number but a composite of these elements. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a greater commitment to supporting individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician density, expanding telemedicine options, and strengthening mental health support.

**Call to Action:**

For a detailed visual representation of healthcare resources in the 28394 area, including physician locations, practice specializations, and mental health service providers, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights for individuals and families seeking to navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care.