28640, Jefferson, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28640, Jefferson, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.50 percent of the residents in 28640 has some form of health insurance. 41.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.87 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 28640 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 776 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28640. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,263 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,883 health care providers accessible to residents in 28640, Jefferson, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Jefferson, NC (ZIP Code 28640)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources in Jefferson, North Carolina (ZIP code 28640), specifically focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. We will assess the landscape of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, providing an Alzheimer's Score-informed perspective.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests on the shoulders of primary care physicians (PCPs). They are the first point of contact, crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing management. In Jefferson, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. The population density of the area, coupled with the potential for a higher-than-average elderly population, could create a strain on existing resources. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a smaller number of doctors serving a larger population, would be a significant red flag. This could lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses.

Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio requires specific data. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) can provide this information. A thorough analysis would compare the ratio in 28640 to both state and national averages. A significantly lower ratio would warrant concern and indicate a potential deficit in primary care access.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices themselves. Are they accepting new patients? Do they offer comprehensive geriatric care, including memory screenings and cognitive assessments? Do they have experience in managing patients with dementia and Alzheimer's? Investigating the practices in the area requires research. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and direct inquiries to the practices themselves are essential. Identifying standout practices that specialize in geriatric care or have demonstrated a commitment to Alzheimer's care would significantly improve the overall Alzheimer's Score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, especially in rural areas like Jefferson. It can bridge geographical barriers and provide access to specialists who might not be readily available locally. For Alzheimer's patients, telemedicine can facilitate consultations with neurologists, geriatricians, and mental health professionals. The adoption rate of telemedicine among the primary care practices in 28640 is a crucial indicator. Do they offer virtual appointments? Do they have the technological infrastructure to support these services? A high adoption rate would positively impact the Alzheimer's Score, enhancing access to specialized care and support.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is vital for managing these symptoms and providing support to both patients and their caregivers. The availability of these resources in Jefferson is a key component of the Alzheimer's Score. Are there mental health clinics in the area? Are there therapists specializing in geriatric mental health or dementia care? The presence of support groups for Alzheimer's patients and their families is also a significant positive factor.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized memory care facilities or assisted living facilities with dedicated memory care units is a critical element. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's, offering specialized care and programs designed to address their unique needs. The presence of such facilities, and their quality, directly impacts the Alzheimer's Score.

To create a comprehensive Alzheimer's Score for Jefferson, we would need to integrate all these factors. This score would be a composite, reflecting the availability, accessibility, and quality of care. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare infrastructure that supports Alzheimer's patients and their families. A low score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

The process of compiling this information is complex. It involves gathering data from various sources, conducting research on local practices, and analyzing the availability of specialized resources. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Jefferson, but a detailed, data-driven assessment is required to produce a definitive Alzheimer's Score.

In conclusion, the quality of Alzheimer's care in Jefferson, NC, depends on a multifaceted approach. It requires a strong foundation of accessible primary care, a commitment to telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized care facilities. Assessing these factors, and assigning a score, is a crucial step in understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

Would you like to visualize this data and explore the healthcare landscape of Jefferson, NC, and surrounding areas? CartoChrome maps can provide an interactive and informative view of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data. Explore the possibilities and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.