The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28801, Asheville, North Carolina is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 83.88 percent of the residents in 28801 has some form of health insurance. 31.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.41 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 28801 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,998 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28801. An estimate of 7 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,292 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 11,185 health care providers accessible to residents in 28801, Asheville, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28801, Asheville, North Carolina
Alzheimers Score | 64 |
---|---|
People Score | 10 |
Provider Score | 99 |
Hospital Score | 61 |
Travel Score | 42 |
28801 | Asheville | North Carolina | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The analysis below offers an assessment of healthcare resources in ZIP code 28801, Asheville, North Carolina, focusing on Alzheimer's care and primary care accessibility. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, ultimately providing a nuanced understanding of the landscape.
**Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28801**
The provision of care for Alzheimer's disease requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing early diagnosis, ongoing management, and support for both patients and their families. Evaluating the availability and quality of these services within a specific geographic area is crucial. This analysis examines the healthcare ecosystem in ZIP code 28801, Asheville, North Carolina, to determine its strengths and weaknesses in this critical area.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Accessibility**
A fundamental aspect of Alzheimer's care is access to primary care physicians. These doctors often serve as the first point of contact, initiating cognitive assessments and referrals to specialists. The physician-to-patient ratio within 28801 directly impacts this accessibility. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to shorter wait times for appointments and more personalized care. Conversely, a higher ratio can strain resources, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP code is vital. Public health data, insurance provider networks, and local medical society information are key resources for this information.
Primary care availability also extends beyond the number of physicians. Factors such as office hours, appointment scheduling systems, and the acceptance of various insurance plans all contribute to accessibility. Practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments for urgent needs, and accept a wide range of insurance plans are better positioned to serve a diverse patient population, including those potentially affected by Alzheimer's.
**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics**
Identifying standout practices within 28801 requires a deeper dive into their specific offerings. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care often exhibit several key characteristics. These include:
* **Cognitive Assessment Protocols:** Do they utilize standardized cognitive screening tools as part of their routine checkups?
* **Specialized Training:** Do physicians and staff receive training in dementia care, including recognizing early signs, communicating effectively with patients, and managing challenging behaviors?
* **Referral Networks:** Do they have established referral pathways to neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists experienced in Alzheimer's diagnosis and treatment?
* **Patient Education:** Do they provide educational materials and resources for patients and their families, covering topics such as disease progression, medication management, and available support services?
* **Care Coordination:** Do they offer care coordination services to help patients navigate the complex healthcare system, manage medications, and access community resources?
Practices that excel in these areas are likely to provide a higher level of care for individuals with Alzheimer's.
**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**
Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine within 28801 can significantly impact Alzheimer's care. Telemedicine can facilitate:
* **Remote Consultations:** Patients can consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially beneficial for those with mobility issues or living in rural areas.
* **Virtual Monitoring:** Physicians can monitor patients' cognitive function and medication adherence remotely through virtual check-ins.
* **Family Support:** Telemedicine can connect families with healthcare providers for education and support, even if they live far away.
The availability of telemedicine services, including the types of platforms used, the range of services offered, and the ease of access for patients, are crucial factors in assessing the healthcare landscape in 28801.
**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration**
Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health resources within 28801 is therefore critical. This includes:
* **Psychiatrists and Psychologists:** The presence of psychiatrists and psychologists specializing in geriatric mental health is essential for diagnosing and treating these symptoms.
* **Counseling Services:** Access to therapists and counselors who can provide individual and family therapy is crucial for supporting patients and their caregivers.
* **Support Groups:** The availability of support groups for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families offers a valuable opportunity for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support.
* **Collaboration:** The extent to which primary care physicians and specialists collaborate with mental health providers is a key indicator of integrated care.
The integration of mental health services into the overall healthcare system within 28801 is a significant factor in the quality of Alzheimer's care.
**Conclusion: A Holistic Assessment**
Evaluating the healthcare resources in 28801 requires a holistic approach. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. A comprehensive analysis of these factors is necessary to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system within this specific ZIP code. This information can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's and their families receive the support and care they need.
For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 28801, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can visualize this information, making it easier to understand the healthcare ecosystem and identify areas of opportunity.
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