Health Scores Near 02872, Prudence Island, Rhode Island
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02872, Prudence Island, Rhode Island is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 02872 has some form of health insurance. 58.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.72 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 02872 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02872. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 58 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,978 health care providers accessible to residents in 02872, Prudence Island, Rhode Island.
Health Scores in 02872, Prudence Island, Rhode Island
| Alzheimers Score | 99 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 97 |
| Provider Score | 78 |
| Hospital Score | 66 |
| Travel Score | 69 |
| 02872 | Prudence Island | Rhode Island | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 02872 and Prudence Island Primary Care
This analysis assesses the availability of resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 02872, focusing on primary care physician accessibility and the specific challenges faced by residents of Prudence Island, Rhode Island. The aim is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" – a subjective assessment based on the factors described below – to gauge the area's preparedness to support individuals and families affected by this debilitating disease. The score is not a numerical value but a qualitative evaluation of the existing landscape.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Accessibility (02872)**
The physician-to-patient ratio in 02872 is a crucial starting point. Accurate data on this metric requires accessing resources like the Rhode Island Department of Health and the US Census Bureau. However, it's reasonable to infer that the population density of this area, combined with the potential for a significant elderly population, could strain primary care resources. A higher physician-to-patient ratio suggests potentially longer wait times for appointments, which can be particularly problematic for individuals experiencing cognitive decline and their caregivers.
The accessibility of primary care extends beyond the raw number of physicians. Factors like insurance acceptance, the availability of evening and weekend appointments, and the physical accessibility of office locations (e.g., wheelchair access, proximity to public transportation) all play a vital role. Practices that offer extended hours or telehealth options, which we will discuss later, are generally more accommodating to patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges.
**Prudence Island: A Unique Challenge**
Prudence Island presents a unique set of hurdles. Its island location creates inherent limitations regarding access to healthcare. Residents of Prudence Island rely heavily on ferry transportation to reach the mainland for medical appointments. This adds significant time and logistical complexity to accessing care, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's who may experience confusion, disorientation, or mobility limitations.
The availability of primary care on the island itself is likely extremely limited, which means residents must travel to the mainland for all but the most basic medical needs. This geographical barrier can significantly delay diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of Alzheimer's disease. The lack of local pharmacies, specialists, and support services further exacerbates these challenges.
**Standout Practices and Their Impact**
Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the specific practices within 02872. We need to evaluate their commitment to geriatric care. This includes whether the practice has physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or neurology, the availability of memory screenings, and the use of standardized cognitive assessment tools.
Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, such as offering educational seminars on Alzheimer's disease or partnering with local senior centers, demonstrate a proactive approach to patient care. The presence of a dedicated care coordinator or social worker within the practice can also be highly beneficial, providing support and guidance to patients and their families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's.
**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap**
Telemedicine offers a promising solution to improve access to care, particularly for residents of Prudence Island. Telehealth consultations can reduce the need for frequent ferry trips to the mainland, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely. This is especially valuable for routine check-ups, medication management, and providing support to caregivers.
However, the successful implementation of telemedicine requires reliable internet access, which may be a challenge in certain areas of 02872 and particularly on Prudence Island. Physicians must also be trained in using telehealth platforms and comfortable conducting virtual consultations. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track vital signs, could further enhance the benefits of telemedicine.
**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**
Alzheimer's disease often co-occurs with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbances. Access to mental health resources is therefore crucial. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health within 02872 is a key indicator of the area's preparedness.
The presence of support groups for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers is also essential. These groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support. Local chapters of the Alzheimer's Association or other dementia-specific organizations can offer valuable resources, educational materials, and advocacy services.
**Alzheimer's Score Summary (Subjective Assessment)**
Based on the factors discussed, the Alzheimer's Score for 02872, and particularly for Prudence Island residents, is likely to be moderate, with significant room for improvement. The challenges of limited access to primary care, the unique geographical constraints of Prudence Island, and the potential for gaps in mental health resources contribute to this assessment.
The score could be elevated by:
* Increased physician availability, especially those specializing in geriatrics.
* Expanded telemedicine services, particularly for Prudence Island residents.
* Greater availability of mental health professionals specializing in geriatric care.
* Stronger community support networks, including support groups and educational programs.
* Improved access to transportation options for medical appointments.
**Call to Action**
To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape within 02872, and to identify specific practices and resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize geographic data, including healthcare provider locations, demographics, and other relevant information. Use CartoChrome to pinpoint the resources available to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease in this area.
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