28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.33 percent of the residents in 28668 has some form of health insurance. 37.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 97.78 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 28668 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 16 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28668. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 39 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 941 health care providers accessible to residents in 28668, Roaring Gap, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Roaring Gap, NC (ZIP Code 28668)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within Roaring Gap, North Carolina (ZIP code 28668), requires a nuanced approach, particularly when considering the specific needs of individuals facing Alzheimer's disease. This analysis will focus on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, culminating in an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment.

Roaring Gap, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents unique challenges. Its rural setting often translates to limited access to healthcare, a critical factor in managing Alzheimer's. The initial step involves evaluating the density of primary care physicians within the area. A low physician-to-patient ratio signifies potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and ongoing care, vital for patients and their caregivers. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board, combined with demographic information from the US Census Bureau, provides the foundation for calculating this ratio.

The availability of primary care physicians is not solely about quantity; it's also about the quality of care. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code necessitates examining their patient reviews, accreditations, and the range of services offered. Do these practices have experience in geriatric care? Do they offer specialized memory clinics or collaborate with neurologists? The presence of such specialized services significantly boosts the "Alzheimer's Score" as it indicates a commitment to comprehensive care for individuals with cognitive decline.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Roaring Gap's geographic isolation makes telemedicine a potentially transformative resource. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources for patients and caregivers receive a higher score. Telemedicine can bridge the gap in access, providing convenient and timely medical advice, medication management, and support. This is particularly vital for individuals with Alzheimer's who may find travel difficult or have limited mobility.

Mental health resources are intertwined with Alzheimer's care. The disease often brings associated mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers within or near the ZIP code is paramount. A strong network of mental health professionals, coupled with support groups and counseling services, significantly improves the "Alzheimer's Score." Access to these resources helps manage the emotional and psychological burdens of the disease for both patients and their families.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is ultimately a composite metric, reflecting the interplay of these factors. It's not a single number but a holistic assessment. A high score indicates a more favorable environment for Alzheimer's care, characterized by readily available primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, robust telemedicine adoption, and a strong network of mental health resources. A lower score signals potential challenges, highlighting the need for improvements in access, specialized services, and support systems.

Specifically within Roaring Gap, the "Alzheimer's Score" is likely to be impacted by the area's rurality. The physician-to-patient ratio may be less favorable compared to urban centers. Telemedicine adoption, while offering significant potential, might be limited by factors such as internet access and patient digital literacy. The availability of mental health resources could also be constrained by the smaller population and geographic isolation.

To determine the specific score, we need to delve into the data. We need to identify the number of primary care physicians practicing within 28668 and the surrounding areas. We must assess the practices' specializations, including geriatric care and memory clinics. We need to research the telemedicine capabilities of local providers. Finally, we must map the availability of mental health professionals and support services.

This detailed investigation would reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape. It would highlight areas where resources are abundant and areas where improvements are needed. For example, if the physician-to-patient ratio is high, the "Alzheimer's Score" would be negatively affected. If telemedicine is widely adopted, the score would increase. The presence of a dedicated memory clinic would also contribute positively.

The analysis would also consider the accessibility of these resources. Even if mental health professionals are available, are they accepting new patients? Are their fees affordable? Do they accept insurance? These factors influence the practical usability of the resources and, therefore, the overall "Alzheimer's Score."

Caregivers are a critical component of the equation. The analysis should also consider the availability of caregiver support groups, respite care services, and educational programs. These resources provide crucial assistance to families coping with Alzheimer's, improving their ability to manage the disease and maintain the patient's quality of life. The presence of these support systems contributes significantly to a higher "Alzheimer's Score."

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not static; it can evolve over time. Healthcare providers can improve their scores by expanding their services, adopting telemedicine, and collaborating with mental health professionals. Community initiatives, such as awareness campaigns and caregiver training programs, can also enhance the overall score.

Roaring Gap's "Alzheimer's Score" should be used as a tool for improvement. It can inform local healthcare providers about areas where they can strengthen their services. It can also guide policymakers in allocating resources to address the specific needs of the community. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that is supportive, accessible, and effective for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

For a visual representation of this data, including the locations of healthcare providers, the availability of mental health resources, and the areas with the greatest need, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape in Roaring Gap, 28668, allowing you to visualize the "Alzheimer's Score" factors and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this important area.