28602, Hickory, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28602, Hickory, North Carolina is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.63 percent of the residents in 28602 has some form of health insurance. 38.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.74 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 28602 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,058 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28602. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,740 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,567 health care providers accessible to residents in 28602, Hickory, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Hickory, NC (ZIP Code 28602)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care services within ZIP code 28602, Hickory, North Carolina, with a specific focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. We aim to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. This evaluation will help residents understand the strengths and weaknesses of local healthcare infrastructure in addressing the needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access to care. In ZIP code 28602, the ratio of primary care physicians to the overall population is a critical starting point. National averages can serve as a benchmark; however, the specific ratio within Hickory necessitates detailed investigation. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a less comprehensive approach to care, especially for complex conditions like Alzheimer's. Data from the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with local population statistics, would be essential to accurately calculate this ratio.

Standout practices within the area should be identified. These practices often exhibit characteristics that enhance the quality of care for patients with Alzheimer's. For instance, practices that have a dedicated memory care specialist or a team trained in geriatric care are highly valuable. These specialists possess a deeper understanding of the disease's progression, its impact on patients and families, and the most effective treatment strategies. Furthermore, practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offering extended appointment times, home visits, or care coordination services, demonstrate a commitment to the specific needs of this patient population.

Telemedicine adoption is a vital aspect of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management support, which can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The presence of telemedicine capabilities also allows for more frequent check-ins and easier access to specialists, ultimately contributing to better disease management.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The emotional and psychological impact of the disease on both patients and their families is profound. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with local mental health providers, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to care. Access to counseling, support groups, and psychiatric evaluations is essential for managing the behavioral and psychological symptoms of Alzheimer's, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of these resources directly impacts the quality of life for both the patient and the caregiver.

The presence of specialized memory care clinics or centers within or near ZIP code 28602 is another critical factor. These facilities often provide a range of services, including diagnostic evaluations, cognitive assessments, medication management, and support groups. They also may offer specialized programs designed to address the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer's, such as memory training, physical therapy, and social activities. Proximity to these centers and their accessibility are important indicators of the overall quality of care available in the area.

Caregiver support is a fundamental component of Alzheimer's care. The burden on caregivers is immense, and access to resources that provide education, respite care, and emotional support is crucial. Practices that actively engage with caregiver support organizations, offer caregiver training programs, or provide resources for navigating the complexities of long-term care planning demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. Identifying these practices and the resources they provide is essential for a comprehensive Alzheimer's Score assessment.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for ZIP code 28602 would be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the availability of specialized memory care, and caregiver support would all contribute to the final score. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for Alzheimer's care, reflecting greater access to services, a more comprehensive approach to treatment, and a stronger support system for both patients and caregivers.

The analysis would require a thorough investigation of the local healthcare landscape. This involves gathering data from various sources, including physician directories, hospital websites, insurance providers, and local community organizations. It would also involve assessing the quality of care provided by individual practices, which could be achieved through patient surveys, reviews, and interviews with healthcare professionals.

The final Alzheimer's Score should be presented in a clear and concise manner, providing a snapshot of the healthcare environment in ZIP code 28602. It should also highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, or enhancing the availability of mental health services. This information can be used by residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and by healthcare providers to identify opportunities for improvement.

For a comprehensive visual representation of this data, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the demographics of the area, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can offer an interactive and insightful way to understand the healthcare landscape of Hickory, NC, and its specific relevance to Alzheimer's care.