28660, Olin, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28660, Olin, North Carolina is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.05 percent of the residents in 28660 has some form of health insurance. 39.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.68 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 28660 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 474 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28660. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 524 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,988 health care providers accessible to residents in 28660, Olin, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in 28660 & Primary Care in Olin

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources for individuals, particularly those affected by Alzheimer's disease, within the 28660 ZIP code and the town of Olin, North Carolina. The focus is on primary care physicians, their capacity to serve patients, and the availability of supporting services, including mental health resources and telemedicine options. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive 'Alzheimer's Score' perspective, evaluating the landscape for individuals and families navigating the complexities of this disease.

The 28660 ZIP code encompasses a relatively small geographical area, including the town of Olin. This presents both challenges and opportunities when evaluating healthcare access. The rural nature often means a lower density of physicians compared to more urban settings. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potentially, a reduced choice of specialists. However, the close-knit community can foster strong patient-physician relationships, which are critical in managing chronic conditions like Alzheimer's.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. Accurate data on the exact ratio within the 28660 ZIP code requires a detailed analysis of physician listings, their patient panels, and the population demographics. Publicly available data from the North Carolina Medical Board and other sources can provide some insights, but a comprehensive assessment often necessitates direct inquiries to local practices. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can strain resources and potentially impact the quality of care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater availability and potentially improved access.

Primary care availability in Olin is a key component of this assessment. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the first point of contact for healthcare needs and play a vital role in diagnosing, managing, and coordinating care for Alzheimer's patients. The presence of a sufficient number of PCPs, their willingness to accept new patients, and their expertise in geriatric care are all critical factors. The availability of a dedicated geriatrician, a specialist in the care of older adults, would significantly enhance the Alzheimer's Score for Olin.

Standout practices within the 28660 area are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care for patients with Alzheimer's and related dementias. This includes practices that employ:

* **Cognitive assessments:** Routine cognitive screenings are essential for early detection and diagnosis.
* **Care coordination:** Practices that actively coordinate care with specialists, therapists, and other healthcare providers improve the patient's experience.
* **Family support:** Offering educational resources, support groups, and counseling for families is a significant advantage.
* **Memory care programs:** Specialized programs designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

These practices may also demonstrate a commitment to training staff in dementia care, creating dementia-friendly environments, and actively participating in community outreach programs. Identifying these practices would significantly boost the Alzheimer's Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. For Alzheimer's patients, telemedicine can be used for:

* **Medication management:** Remote consultations to review medications and address any side effects.
* **Cognitive assessments:** Some cognitive tests can be administered remotely.
* **Therapy sessions:** Virtual therapy sessions can provide support and coping strategies.
* **Family education:** Online resources and virtual support groups.

The availability of telemedicine options within the 28660 area would significantly enhance the Alzheimer's Score, particularly for patients with mobility issues or limited access to transportation.

Mental health resources are essential for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Alzheimer's can lead to significant emotional and behavioral changes, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. Caregivers also experience high levels of stress and burnout. The availability of mental health services, such as:

* **Psychiatrists:** For medication management and diagnosis.
* **Psychologists and therapists:** For individual and family therapy.
* **Support groups:** For caregivers to share experiences and receive emotional support.
* **Counseling services:** To provide coping strategies and address emotional challenges.

The presence of these resources within the 28660 area would be a significant positive factor in the Alzheimer's Score.

Assessing the overall Alzheimer's Score for the 28660 ZIP code and Olin requires a holistic evaluation of all these factors. A higher score indicates better access to care, a greater availability of specialized services, and a more supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. A lower score suggests a need for improvement in one or more areas, such as physician availability, telemedicine adoption, or mental health resources.

In conclusion, the 28660 ZIP code and the town of Olin face both challenges and opportunities in providing adequate care for individuals with Alzheimer's. While the rural setting may present limitations in terms of physician density, the close-knit community can foster strong patient-physician relationships. A comprehensive assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is crucial for determining the overall Alzheimer's Score. This analysis highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve access to care, expand specialized services, and provide support for both patients and their caregivers.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of the 28660 ZIP code and surrounding areas, and to explore the locations of physicians, healthcare facilities, and support services, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing geographic data, identifying areas with limited access to care, and planning strategies to improve healthcare delivery.