28643, Lansing, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28643, Lansing, North Carolina is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.95 percent of the residents in 28643 has some form of health insurance. 42.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.62 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 28643 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 820 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28643. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 949 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 116 health care providers accessible to residents in 28643, Lansing, North Carolina.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Lansing, NC (ZIP Code 28643) Physicians & Primary Care**

Lansing, North Carolina, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, presents a unique challenge when considering healthcare access, particularly for a disease like Alzheimer's. This analysis examines the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the overall healthcare landscape within ZIP code 28643, focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. We’ll explore physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in an “Alzheimer's Score” assessment.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. In rural areas like Lansing, the ratio often lags behind national averages. A limited number of PCPs, combined with an aging population, can create significant barriers to accessing timely diagnoses and ongoing care for Alzheimer's patients. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and a higher burden on existing healthcare providers. The precise physician-to-patient ratio within 28643 requires specific data analysis, but the rural context suggests a likely deficit compared to more urban settings.

Analyzing standout practices requires a nuanced approach. While the number of physicians is important, the quality of care, experience with geriatric patients, and integration of Alzheimer's-specific services are equally critical. Practices that proactively screen for cognitive decline, offer memory care programs, or collaborate with specialists in neurology and geriatrics would score higher. The presence of registered nurses (RNs) or advanced practice providers (APPs) with geriatric expertise is also a positive indicator. Identifying these practices necessitates examining provider profiles, patient reviews (where available), and direct contact with local healthcare facilities.

Telemedicine adoption is a game-changer, especially in geographically isolated areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide educational resources can significantly improve access to care for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online support groups, would receive a higher score. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is also a crucial factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists within the community is therefore critical. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have strong referral networks with mental health providers, are better equipped to manage the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients. The presence of support groups and caregiver resources further enhances the overall care environment.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Lansing, NC (28643) would be a composite measure, reflecting the factors discussed above. It is important to note that this is a hypothetical assessment, as a definitive score requires detailed data analysis. Based on the general characteristics of rural healthcare environments, the initial score may be relatively low. The score would be impacted by the following:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** A low ratio (fewer physicians per capita) would negatively impact the score.
* **Geriatric Expertise:** The presence of physicians with geriatric training or experience would positively impact the score.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** Practices utilizing telemedicine for patient care and support would positively impact the score.
* **Mental Health Resources:** The availability of mental health professionals and support services would positively impact the score.
* **Specialized Alzheimer's Services:** Practices offering memory care programs, cognitive assessments, or collaborations with specialists would positively impact the score.

To improve the score, Lansing needs to focus on several key areas. Recruiting and retaining qualified PCPs, especially those with geriatric expertise, is paramount. Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine by local practices can expand access to care and reduce the burden on patients and caregivers. Strengthening the network of mental health providers and support services is crucial for addressing the psychological and behavioral symptoms associated with Alzheimer's. Finally, community education and awareness campaigns can help reduce stigma, promote early detection, and empower families to navigate the challenges of the disease.

The quality of care for Alzheimer's patients in Lansing is also influenced by the broader healthcare infrastructure. The presence of a local hospital, access to specialized diagnostic services (such as MRI and PET scans), and the availability of skilled nursing facilities are all important factors. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for creating a comprehensive and supportive care environment. The involvement of family members and caregivers is also vital, as they play a central role in managing the day-to-day needs of Alzheimer's patients.

The challenges of Alzheimer's care in a rural setting like Lansing highlight the need for innovative solutions. This includes the development of mobile healthcare units, the use of technology to connect patients with specialists, and the creation of community-based support programs. Addressing the social determinants of health, such as transportation and access to affordable housing, is also critical for ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

Ultimately, improving the “Alzheimer's Score” for Lansing is a continuous process that requires ongoing assessment, adaptation, and collaboration. It necessitates a commitment from healthcare providers, community leaders, and residents to work together to create a supportive and compassionate environment for individuals living with Alzheimer's and their families. This requires an understanding of the specific needs of the community, a willingness to embrace new technologies and approaches, and a dedication to providing high-quality care.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Lansing, NC (28643), and gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare access, allowing you to identify areas with limited resources and highlight opportunities for improvement. This visual data can be invaluable for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers alike.