28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 57.18 percent of the residents in 28671 has some form of health insurance. 37.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.69 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 28671 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 25 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28671. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,873 health care providers accessible to residents in 28671, Rutherford College, North Carolina.

Alzheimer's Disease, a progressive neurological disorder, presents significant challenges for both individuals and communities. The availability and quality of healthcare, particularly primary care, play a critical role in early detection, management, and support for those affected. This analysis examines the healthcare landscape in Rutherford College, North Carolina, focusing on ZIP code 28671, to assess the resources available for Alzheimer's patients and their families. We will delve into the specifics of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with primary care physicians (PCPs). They serve as the first point of contact, crucial for initial assessments, referrals, and ongoing management. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 28671 is paramount. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and potentially less personalized care. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratio data requires access to proprietary databases and continuous updates, publicly available resources such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer insights into primary care access in the broader county, which can be used as a starting point.

Furthermore, the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is also important. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating access challenges for residents in more rural or underserved parts of Rutherford College? Analyzing the geographic distribution of practices and their accessibility, including transportation options, is crucial. This includes the availability of public transportation, the distance to the nearest practice, and the ability of patients with mobility issues to access care.

Identifying standout practices within 28671 requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes examining patient reviews, assessing the scope of services offered, and evaluating the practice's commitment to geriatric care. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education related to Alzheimer's disease, offer memory screenings, and have staff trained in dementia care are likely to provide a higher level of support. Examining their affiliations with hospitals and specialists in the area is also key. Do they have established referral pathways to neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists who are essential for comprehensive Alzheimer's care?

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Its adoption rate within 28671 is a critical indicator of the community's ability to provide care. Practices that offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, can significantly improve access to care for Alzheimer's patients. The availability of telehealth platforms, the ease of use for both patients and providers, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers all influence the adoption rate.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community is essential. Assessing the presence of these professionals, their capacity to see new patients, and their experience in treating patients with dementia is crucial.

Furthermore, support groups, educational programs, and respite care services play a vital role in supporting both patients and their caregivers. These resources can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community. Evaluating the availability and accessibility of these resources within 28671 is an important aspect of the overall assessment. Are there local chapters of the Alzheimer's Association or other organizations that offer support and education? Are there respite care options available to provide caregivers with temporary relief?

The presence of specialized memory care units or facilities in the area is also a key consideration. These facilities offer specialized care and support for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Assessing the availability of these facilities, their staffing levels, and the quality of care provided is essential.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape for Alzheimer's patients in Rutherford College (ZIP code 28671) requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health and support resources. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current system and identifying areas for improvement. While this analysis provides a general overview, a complete and accurate assessment would require more in-depth data collection and analysis.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Rutherford College, including the geographic distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the availability of support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the resources available in the community.