28421, Atkinson, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28421, Atkinson, North Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.34 percent of the residents in 28421 has some form of health insurance. 37.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.12 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 28421 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 408 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28421. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 365 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 531 health care providers accessible to residents in 28421, Atkinson, North Carolina.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge, especially for communities with aging populations. Evaluating healthcare resources and accessibility is crucial for supporting individuals and families impacted by this condition. This analysis focuses on two key areas: assessing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in ZIP Code 28421, and examining primary care availability within the town of Atkinson, North Carolina, with a particular focus on resources relevant to Alzheimer's care.

The assessment of physician resources in ZIP Code 28421 begins with an examination of the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a baseline understanding of the potential access challenges residents might face when seeking care. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could signify longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers. Analyzing publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau allows for calculating this ratio, providing a quantifiable measure of access. Furthermore, it's essential to consider the age distribution within the ZIP code. A higher proportion of elderly residents, a demographic at increased risk for Alzheimer's, necessitates a greater concentration of healthcare resources, particularly those specializing in geriatric care and cognitive health.

Beyond the raw physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and specialization of available medical professionals are paramount. This involves researching the practices within the ZIP code to identify PCPs with experience in geriatric medicine, neurology, and psychiatry. These specialties are critical for diagnosing, managing, and supporting patients with Alzheimer's disease. Information on physician credentials, board certifications, and areas of expertise can be gleaned from practice websites, professional directories, and patient reviews. The presence of specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, within or near the ZIP code significantly enhances the ability to provide comprehensive Alzheimer's care.

Standout practices within 28421 are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive Alzheimer's care. This includes practices that offer memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and care coordination services. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's are also valuable resources. Furthermore, the integration of support services for patients and their families is a key indicator of a practice's dedication to this patient population. This might include offering caregiver support groups, educational programs, and assistance with navigating the complexities of long-term care planning.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. The availability of telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients and their caregivers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies can provide more convenient and accessible care options. Assessing the extent to which practices in 28421 offer telemedicine services, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, is a key component of this evaluation.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients and their families. Identifying the availability of mental health services within the ZIP code, including the types of services offered and the insurance plans accepted, is essential. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health providers is also a key indicator of a well-integrated care system.

Shifting focus to primary care availability in Atkinson, North Carolina, the same principles apply. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, the specialization of available PCPs, and the adoption of telemedicine are all critical. Atkinson, as a smaller town, might present unique challenges in terms of healthcare access. The analysis should consider the proximity of healthcare facilities to residents, the availability of transportation options, and the potential for healthcare deserts.

The availability of specialized care, such as geriatric medicine and neurology, is particularly important in Atkinson. If these specialists are not readily available within the town, the analysis should assess the distance to the nearest facilities offering these services. This includes considering the travel time, transportation costs, and the potential impact on patients and their caregivers.

Mental health resources are equally crucial in Atkinson. Identifying the availability of mental health professionals, support groups, and other resources is essential for supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. The analysis should also consider the availability of respite care services, which can provide temporary relief for caregivers.

The overall assessment of primary care availability in Atkinson should consider the coordination of care. This includes assessing the extent to which PCPs collaborate with specialists, mental health providers, and other healthcare professionals. A well-coordinated care system can improve the quality of care and reduce the burden on patients and their families.

In conclusion, evaluating healthcare resources in both ZIP Code 28421 and Atkinson requires a comprehensive approach. This includes assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, the specialization of available PCPs, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system, communities can work to improve access to care and support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in 28421 and Atkinson? Explore the data with interactive maps and gain deeper insights into physician locations, resource availability, and more. Click here to explore the possibilities with CartoChrome maps and uncover the spatial dimensions of healthcare access.