28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.12 percent of the residents in 28636 has some form of health insurance. 43.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.55 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 28636 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 757 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28636. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,001 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,731 health care providers accessible to residents in 28636, Hiddenite, North Carolina.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Hiddenite, NC (ZIP Code 28636)**

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources within Hiddenite, North Carolina (ZIP code 28636), with a particular focus on factors relevant to individuals and families managing Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" reflecting the local healthcare landscape's capacity to support those affected by cognitive decline. This score considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health and support services.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care is a strong primary care network. PCPs are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive changes. Early detection, diagnosis, and management of related health issues are critical. The physician-to-patient ratio in a given area significantly impacts access to care. National averages can be misleading; a localized assessment provides a more accurate picture. Data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the US Census Bureau are used to estimate this ratio within the 28636 ZIP code.

Hiddenite, being a smaller community, likely has a different physician-to-patient ratio than more densely populated areas. The analysis considers the number of active PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, accounting for family medicine, internal medicine, and geriatric specialists. The population of Hiddenite is then considered. This ratio, expressed as the number of residents per PCP, provides a baseline understanding of access. A higher ratio suggests potentially limited access, while a lower ratio indicates greater availability.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the medical practices themselves are crucial. The analysis examines the size and structure of the practices in Hiddenite. Are they solo practices, group practices, or part of larger healthcare systems? Larger group practices often have greater resources, including access to specialists, diagnostic equipment, and support staff. The analysis also considers the presence of geriatric specialists or physicians with specific training in dementia care. Their availability is a significant positive factor.

Another vital aspect is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for patients with Alzheimer's, especially those with mobility issues or who live in rural areas. Remote consultations can reduce travel burdens and improve access to care. The analysis investigates the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, including virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. Practices actively embracing telemedicine receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. Their caregivers also face significant emotional and psychological challenges. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the Hiddenite area. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options is also evaluated.

The availability of specialized programs and services is a key component of the Alzheimer's Score. Are there memory care clinics or programs in the area? Do local hospitals or healthcare systems offer geriatric assessments, cognitive testing, and care coordination services? The existence of these specialized resources significantly enhances the score. The analysis also considers the availability of community resources, such as adult day care centers, home healthcare agencies, and support groups specifically for caregivers.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a single number but a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. Each factor is weighted based on its importance in providing quality Alzheimer's care. The final score reflects the overall capacity of the local healthcare system to support individuals and families affected by the disease. The analysis also considers the accessibility of information about local resources. Are websites, brochures, and other materials readily available to help patients and caregivers navigate the healthcare system?

The analysis also considers the quality of care. This includes assessing the practices' adherence to evidence-based guidelines for Alzheimer's diagnosis and management. Do they use standardized cognitive assessments? Do they offer comprehensive care plans that address both medical and psychosocial needs? The analysis also considers patient satisfaction. While direct patient surveys are challenging to obtain, the analysis may consider publicly available reviews and ratings of local practices.

The analysis will highlight any standout practices or healthcare providers in the Hiddenite area. This may include practices with a strong focus on geriatric care, those that have successfully adopted telemedicine, or those that offer comprehensive support services for patients and caregivers. The goal is to identify and recognize practices that are leading the way in providing high-quality Alzheimer's care.

The analysis also acknowledges the limitations of this assessment. Data availability can vary, and the information gathered may not be entirely comprehensive. The analysis is based on publicly available information and may not reflect the full scope of services offered by local healthcare providers. The Alzheimer's Score is intended to be a starting point for further investigation and should not be considered a definitive ranking.

The final Alzheimer's Score for Hiddenite (ZIP code 28636) will provide a snapshot of the local healthcare landscape. It will highlight strengths and weaknesses, identifying areas where access to care may be limited and where improvements could be made. This analysis is intended to be a valuable resource for individuals and families in Hiddenite who are seeking information about Alzheimer's care.

This comprehensive analysis can assist in identifying gaps in care and providing recommendations for improvement. The goal is to empower individuals and families with the knowledge they need to navigate the healthcare system and access the resources they need.

**Call to Action:**

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Hiddenite and surrounding areas? Explore the spatial distribution of healthcare providers and resources with **CartoChrome maps**. Gain a visual understanding of access to care and identify potential areas for improvement.