28673, Sherrills Ford, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28673, Sherrills Ford, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.71 percent of the residents in 28673 has some form of health insurance. 33.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.61 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 28673 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 992 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28673. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,605 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,770 health care providers accessible to residents in 28673, Sherrills Ford, North Carolina.

The analysis below evaluates the Alzheimer's care landscape for physicians in ZIP code 28673, focusing on Sherrills Ford, North Carolina. The assessment considers factors impacting access to care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, technology adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in addressing the complex needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

Sherrills Ford, a community nestled within ZIP code 28673, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding Alzheimer's care. The aging population, coupled with the disease's prevalence, necessitates a robust healthcare infrastructure. A critical starting point is evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can lead to delayed diagnoses and limited access to ongoing care. Publicly available data sources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards, can provide insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data, combined with population estimates, allows for calculating a ratio, offering a baseline understanding of access.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of local medical practices are pivotal. Are practices accepting new patients, particularly those with complex medical histories? Do they offer specialized services, such as memory clinics or geriatric care? The presence of these specialized services significantly improves the quality of care. Standout practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. This includes early detection through cognitive assessments, coordinated care plans involving specialists (neurologists, psychiatrists, etc.), and support services for both patients and caregivers. Evaluating practice websites, reviewing patient testimonials (where available and ethically permissible), and consulting with local community organizations can identify practices excelling in Alzheimer's care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telehealth offers a means of expanding access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patient progress remotely, and provide educational resources through telehealth platforms can significantly improve patient outcomes. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among local physicians requires examining their websites, inquiring directly, and reviewing insurance coverage policies for telehealth services. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care, enhancing convenience and potentially reducing healthcare costs.

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 essential. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining local directories, contacting mental health providers, and collaborating with community organizations. The presence of support groups, caregiver training programs, and respite care services further strengthens the support system for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. These resources offer crucial emotional and practical support, improving the overall quality of life.

The availability of specialized resources, such as memory care units in assisted living facilities and skilled nursing facilities, also plays a crucial role. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's, offering specialized care and supervision. Assessing the quality and availability of these facilities involves reviewing their ratings, conducting site visits (when possible), and speaking with residents and their families. The presence of a well-developed network of specialized care facilities significantly enhances the ability of the community to address the complex needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

Furthermore, the level of community awareness and education surrounding Alzheimer's is a key indicator of the quality of care. Public health initiatives, educational programs, and community outreach efforts play a vital role in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting early detection. Assessing the presence of these initiatives involves examining local government websites, contacting community organizations, and reviewing media coverage. A community that actively promotes awareness and education demonstrates a commitment to supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

The overall 'Alzheimer's Score' for physicians in ZIP code 28673, specifically in Sherrills Ford, would be determined by synthesizing the data gathered from the aforementioned assessments. This would include physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialized care facilities, and community awareness efforts. Each factor would be weighted based on its relative importance, allowing for a comprehensive and objective evaluation. The final score would provide a valuable snapshot of the care landscape, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

This analysis underscores the need for continuous monitoring and improvement of Alzheimer's care resources within Sherrills Ford. By understanding the current landscape, stakeholders can work collaboratively to address existing gaps and ensure that individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's receive the highest quality of care possible. This includes advocating for policy changes, supporting community initiatives, and encouraging the adoption of innovative technologies and care models.

For a comprehensive, visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sherrills Ford, including physician locations, facility locations, and resource availability, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive visualizations, enabling you to pinpoint critical resources, analyze geographical patterns, and make informed decisions about healthcare access and planning. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the Alzheimer's care landscape in your community.