28526, Dover, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28526, Dover, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.21 percent of the residents in 28526 has some form of health insurance. 56.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.89 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 28526 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 720 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28526. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 570 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,170 health care providers accessible to residents in 28526, Dover, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Dover, NC (ZIP Code 28526)

This analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians and related resources within Dover, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28526), with a focus on their capacity to address the needs of individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease. The "Alzheimer's Score" is a composite, qualitative evaluation considering factors crucial for effective Alzheimer's care, including physician accessibility, practice features, and the availability of supporting services. This score is not a numerical grade but rather a descriptive assessment of the current landscape.

Dover, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural setting often translates to lower physician density compared to urban areas. This scarcity can significantly impact the timely diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, a condition requiring consistent medical oversight. The analysis begins with an examination of the physician-to-patient ratio within the defined area. Accurate data on this ratio is critical. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from physician directories and insurance providers, will be necessary to estimate the number of primary care physicians serving the population of ZIP Code 28526. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing appointments, increasing wait times, and limiting the ability to establish strong patient-physician relationships.

The availability of primary care physicians is a crucial starting point. However, the quality of care extends beyond mere presence. The analysis will investigate the characteristics of existing practices. This includes examining the acceptance of Medicare and Medicaid, which are essential for many patients with Alzheimer's. Practices accepting these insurance plans are more accessible to a broader segment of the population. Furthermore, the analysis will consider whether practices are accepting new patients. Open practices are more likely to accommodate the needs of individuals seeking care, including those newly diagnosed with Alzheimer's or relocating to the area.

Standout practices will be identified based on their specific services and approaches to patient care. Practices demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care are particularly valuable. These practices often have physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or experience treating older adults. They might offer comprehensive geriatric assessments, medication management, and coordination of care with specialists. Practices that offer memory screenings or cognitive assessments are also highly beneficial. Early detection is vital in managing Alzheimer's, and these services facilitate timely diagnosis and intervention. The analysis will also look for practices that provide care coordination services, which can streamline communication between physicians, specialists, and family caregivers.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas where travel can be a barrier to accessing care. Practices offering telehealth consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support groups can significantly improve access to care and provide ongoing support for patients and their families. The analysis will assess the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine technologies, including their availability for primary care appointments, medication management, and mental health consultations.

The availability of mental health resources is a vital aspect of Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, 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 both patients and caregivers. The analysis will investigate the presence of mental health providers in the area, including their acceptance of insurance and their availability for appointments. It will also consider the availability of support groups and educational resources for caregivers, which can help them cope with the emotional and practical challenges of caring for someone with Alzheimer's.

In addition to formal medical care, the availability of community resources plays a significant role. This includes the presence of adult day care centers, assisted living facilities, and memory care units. These facilities provide essential support for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families, offering respite care, social activities, and specialized medical services. The analysis will examine the availability of these resources within and near ZIP Code 28526, considering their capacity, cost, and quality of care.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Dover, NC (28526) is likely to be moderate, given the challenges inherent in rural healthcare settings. While the presence of primary care physicians and some mental health resources is expected, the physician-to-patient ratio may be a limiting factor. The availability of specialized geriatric care, memory screenings, and telemedicine services may vary among practices. The presence of support services and community resources will also influence the score. The score will reflect the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and support for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families in the Dover community. This analysis is intended to provide a snapshot of the current situation and identify areas for improvement.

Further research and data collection are essential to refine this assessment. This includes gathering more specific information from local healthcare providers, community organizations, and patient advocacy groups. Regular updates and evaluations are necessary to track progress and ensure that the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's are being adequately addressed. This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying opportunities to enhance the quality of care for those affected by Alzheimer's in Dover, NC.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dover, NC (28526), and to explore the geographic distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and community resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing data and identifying areas with limited access to care.