28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.59 percent of the residents in 28775 has some form of health insurance. 68.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 30.94 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 28775 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 153 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28775. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 198 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,056 health care providers accessible to residents in 28775, Scaly Mountain, North Carolina.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge, and access to quality healthcare is crucial for those affected and their families. This analysis examines the landscape of primary care and related resources in Scaly Mountain, North Carolina (ZIP code 28775), with a focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. We'll delve into physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, offering an "Alzheimer's Score" perspective.

The primary care physician (PCP) is often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. In Scaly Mountain, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator. A higher ratio (fewer patients per doctor) generally suggests better access. However, this is just the beginning of the assessment. The actual number of practicing physicians in the area, and their willingness to accept new patients, particularly those with complex medical needs, is essential. This information, while difficult to quantify precisely without detailed local data, is the foundation for understanding the accessibility of care.

Standout practices can significantly impact the quality of care. Practices that specialize in geriatric care or have physicians with specific training in dementia management are particularly valuable. These practices are more likely to have experience diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's. They may offer memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and care coordination services. Evaluating these practices involves examining their websites, patient reviews, and, if possible, directly contacting them to inquire about their services related to Alzheimer's.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool, especially in rural areas like Scaly Mountain. It offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers and provide access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a key indicator of their commitment to patient access. Practices that offer virtual consultations for initial assessments, follow-up appointments, and medication management can significantly improve the care experience. The availability of remote monitoring tools, which allow for the tracking of vital signs and cognitive function, is also a positive factor.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and supporting caregivers. The presence of local mental health clinics, support groups, and access to telehealth mental health services contribute to a more comprehensive care environment. Assessing the availability of these resources is a critical component of the "Alzheimer's Score."

Caregiver support is another crucial element. Alzheimer's places a significant burden on caregivers, who often experience stress, burnout, and social isolation. The availability of caregiver support groups, respite care services, and educational programs can significantly improve the quality of life for both the person with Alzheimer's and their caregiver. Local organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association or local senior centers, often provide these resources. Their presence and accessibility are important considerations.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Scaly Mountain, 28775, would be a composite measure. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of geriatric specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of caregiver support. Each factor would be weighted based on its importance. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for Alzheimer's care. This score, however, is only as good as the data available. Gathering comprehensive data can be a challenge, especially in rural areas.

The specific practices in the area, the names of doctors, and their acceptance of new patients would be critical for a complete analysis. Without that information, a precise "Alzheimer's Score" is difficult to calculate. However, the framework outlined here provides a starting point for evaluating the quality of care.

Data gathering is key to understanding the care landscape. Publicly available resources like the North Carolina Medical Board website can provide information about licensed physicians. Local hospitals and clinics may have information about their services and physician affiliations. The Alzheimer's Association and other advocacy groups can offer valuable insights into local resources and support groups.

The overall picture of Alzheimer's care in Scaly Mountain, 28775, likely reflects the challenges of rural healthcare. Physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and the need for robust mental health support are common issues. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the presence of dedicated practices can help mitigate these challenges. A comprehensive assessment requires gathering data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and caregiver support.

To visualize this data and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Scaly Mountain, and similar areas, consider using interactive mapping tools. These tools can help to identify physician locations, map the distribution of resources, and analyze access to care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Scaly Mountain and other areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Visualize physician locations, resource distribution, and access to care.