28752, Marion, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28752, Marion, North Carolina is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.91 percent of the residents in 28752 has some form of health insurance. 40.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.16 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 28752 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,130 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28752. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,628 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,590 health care providers accessible to residents in 28752, Marion, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28752 & Primary Care in Marion, NC

This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 28752 and evaluates the primary care landscape in Marion, North Carolina, with a focus on factors critical to Alzheimer's care. The score is not a numerical value but a comprehensive evaluation of key aspects, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, all of which directly impact the quality of care available to individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and neurologists actively practicing within 28752 is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians relative to the population, can lead to delayed diagnoses, limited appointment availability, and increased wait times for specialized consultations. This is particularly detrimental in Alzheimer's care, where early detection and intervention are paramount. The analysis should consider the age demographics of the population within 28752, as a higher proportion of older adults necessitates a greater availability of geriatric specialists, neurologists, and PCPs with experience in managing cognitive decline.

The primary care landscape in Marion, the broader area, must be evaluated. The presence of large healthcare systems, independent practices, and community health centers influences access. The geographic distribution of practices within Marion is also important. Are practices clustered in certain areas, potentially creating access disparities for residents in more rural or underserved locations? The availability of transportation options for patients, especially those with cognitive impairments, is another critical consideration.

**Practice Characteristics and Specialized Care:**

The characteristics of medical practices within 28752 are central to the Alzheimer's Score. Do practices offer comprehensive geriatric assessments, including cognitive screenings and functional evaluations? The availability of memory clinics, specialized centers dedicated to diagnosing and managing memory disorders, is a significant positive factor. These clinics typically employ a multidisciplinary approach, involving neurologists, geriatricians, neuropsychologists, and social workers, providing a holistic approach to patient care.

The presence of physicians with specific training and experience in Alzheimer's disease is vital. Board certifications in neurology, geriatric medicine, or related specialties are strong indicators of expertise. The analysis should identify practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's disease. This involvement demonstrates a commitment to advancing knowledge and offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies.

**Standout Practices and Best Practices:**

Identifying standout practices within 28752 and Marion is a key component of the analysis. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. They may implement best practices, such as:

* **Early and Accurate Diagnosis:** Utilizing validated cognitive assessment tools and employing a thorough diagnostic process.
* **Comprehensive Care Plans:** Developing individualized care plans that address the patient's medical, psychological, and social needs.
* **Caregiver Support:** Offering resources and support for family caregivers, including educational programs, support groups, and respite care options.
* **Coordination of Care:** Facilitating seamless communication and collaboration among healthcare providers, including PCPs, specialists, and other members of the care team.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine adoption is a critical factor in the Alzheimer's Score, particularly in rural areas like Marion. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing travel time and costs, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. The analysis should assess the extent to which practices in 28752 offer telemedicine consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management.

The availability of remote monitoring technologies, such as wearable devices that track vital signs and activity levels, can also enhance care. These technologies can provide valuable insights into a patient's health and help identify potential problems early on. The analysis should also evaluate the practice's use of secure online portals for patient communication and access to medical records.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Alzheimer's disease often co-occurs with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbances. Access to mental health resources is therefore crucial. The analysis should assess the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) within 28752 and Marion. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and counseling services specifically for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers is a significant positive factor.

The analysis should also consider the integration of mental health services into primary care practices. Co-locating mental health professionals within primary care settings can facilitate easier access to care and improve coordination of services. The availability of educational programs and resources for both patients and caregivers on managing behavioral symptoms and coping with the emotional challenges of Alzheimer's disease is also essential.

**Conclusion:**

This Alzheimer's Score analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in 28752 and Marion, NC, focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. The assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources helps to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the current system. This information is valuable for individuals and families seeking care, as well as for healthcare providers and policymakers working to improve the quality of Alzheimer's care in the region.

**Call to Action:**

For a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and access to care within 28752 and Marion, NC, we recommend exploring interactive maps and data visualizations. **CartoChrome maps** offer powerful tools for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling you to gain a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.