02919, Johnston, Rhode Island Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02919, Johnston, Rhode Island is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.72 percent of the residents in 02919 has some form of health insurance. 36.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.18 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 02919 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,664 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 11 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 02919. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,022 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,616 health care providers accessible to residents in 02919, Johnston, Rhode Island.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 02919 and Primary Care in Johnston, RI

This analysis evaluates the availability of resources and the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias within ZIP code 02919 (primarily covering Johnston, Rhode Island) and assesses the broader primary care landscape in Johnston, RI. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for managing this complex condition. This score is not a numerical rating but rather a qualitative evaluation across several key areas.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Accessibility:**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can significantly impact access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for Alzheimer's patients. Data from the Rhode Island Department of Health and publicly available databases need to be consulted to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 02919. However, it's likely that the concentration of specialists, including neurologists and geriatricians (crucial for Alzheimer's diagnosis and management), is lower in a suburban area like Johnston compared to urban centers like Providence. This geographical disparity can create challenges for patients and their caregivers, requiring longer travel times and potentially delayed access to specialized care.

**Primary Care Availability in Johnston:**

The strength of primary care in Johnston is vital. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or exhibiting early signs of Alzheimer's. A robust primary care system, with PCPs well-versed in recognizing and addressing the early stages of dementia, can lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention. The availability of PCPs in Johnston, including the number of practices and the acceptance of new patients, is therefore a crucial factor. Moreover, the capacity of these practices to provide comprehensive care, including cognitive assessments, referrals to specialists, and care coordination, significantly impacts the overall Alzheimer's Score.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions:**

Identifying standout practices within the 02919 area is essential. These practices may demonstrate exemplary care models, including a multidisciplinary approach to patient management. This approach might involve collaboration between PCPs, neurologists, geriatricians, and other healthcare professionals, such as therapists and social workers. Some practices might offer memory clinics or specialized programs designed to support individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. The adoption of innovative approaches, such as personalized care plans and caregiver support groups, would also contribute to a higher Alzheimer's Score. Specific practices, with their names and addresses, would need to be identified through thorough research.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in 02919 can significantly improve access to care for Alzheimer's patients. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and ongoing monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The availability of telemedicine services, including video consultations, remote monitoring tools, and virtual support groups, contributes positively to the Alzheimer's Score. The ease of use and the accessibility of these technologies for both patients and caregivers are also important considerations.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

Alzheimer's disease often co-occurs with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbances. The availability of mental health resources within Johnston and the integration of these resources into the care continuum are crucial for comprehensive patient management. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors who specialize in geriatric mental health. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues, provide referrals to mental health specialists, and coordinate care between primary care, neurology, and mental health providers are particularly valuable. The availability of support groups and educational programs for caregivers also plays a significant role in improving the Alzheimer's Score.

**Specifics on the 02919 Landscape:**

The actual Alzheimer's Score for 02919 would depend on a detailed investigation. The presence of a dedicated memory clinic within the ZIP code would be a significant positive factor. The number of board-certified neurologists and geriatricians practicing in the area, their patient load, and their willingness to accept new patients are all critical. The availability of home healthcare services, including skilled nursing, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, is also essential for supporting patients and caregivers in their homes. Furthermore, the level of community support, including the presence of Alzheimer's Association chapters, support groups, and respite care services, significantly impacts the overall score.

**Challenges and Considerations:**

Several challenges may affect the Alzheimer's Score in 02919. These include the aging population in Johnston, which may increase the demand for Alzheimer's care. The availability of affordable and accessible transportation for patients and caregivers is another crucial factor. The financial burden of Alzheimer's care, including the cost of medications, medical appointments, and long-term care, can also impact the overall score. Moreover, the awareness of Alzheimer's disease and the availability of educational resources for the general public are important for early detection and intervention.

**Conclusion:**

Evaluating the Alzheimer's Score for 02919 and primary care in Johnston requires a comprehensive assessment of physician availability, access to specialists, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support. This analysis highlights the key factors that contribute to the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The specific Alzheimer's Score for the area can only be accurately determined through further detailed research and data analysis.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 02919 and Johnston, including physician locations, specialist availability, and resource distribution, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer valuable insights that can inform your healthcare decisions and help you navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care.