27837, Grimesland, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27837, Grimesland, North Carolina is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.33 percent of the residents in 27837 has some form of health insurance. 36.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.03 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 27837 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,554 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 105 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27837. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,204 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,978 health care providers accessible to residents in 27837, Grimesland, North Carolina.

The analysis below assesses primary care resources and their potential impact on Alzheimer's care within Grimesland, North Carolina (ZIP code 27837). This evaluation considers physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of technologies like telemedicine, all within the context of supporting patients and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care is access to a primary care physician. The physician-to-patient ratio within Grimesland and the surrounding area is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, could strain resources and potentially limit the time physicians can dedicate to comprehensive patient evaluations, including cognitive assessments crucial for early Alzheimer's detection. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups, medication management, and referrals to specialists like neurologists and geriatricians. The precise physician-to-patient ratio within 27837 requires data analysis from sources like the US Census Bureau and the North Carolina Medical Board, a crucial first step in determining the overall healthcare landscape.

Standout practices in Grimesland are those that prioritize patient-centered care, particularly for geriatric populations. This includes practices that offer extended appointment times to accommodate the complex needs of patients with cognitive impairments and their caregivers. Practices that have adopted electronic health records (EHRs) can also improve care coordination. EHRs facilitate the seamless exchange of patient information between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of errors. These practices also frequently offer care management services, such as assistance with medication adherence, arranging transportation to appointments, and coordinating home healthcare.

Telemedicine adoption is another important facet of primary care in Grimesland. Telemedicine, which includes video consultations and remote monitoring, can be particularly valuable for patients with Alzheimer's. It reduces the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be challenging for patients and their caregivers. Telemedicine also allows physicians to monitor patients' conditions remotely, providing early intervention when necessary. The availability of telemedicine services is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to patient convenience and its ability to reach patients in their homes, which is especially important for those with mobility issues or who live in rural areas.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is therefore essential. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their primary care offerings are particularly well-positioned to support patients and their families. This integration can involve on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local mental health providers, and the provision of educational resources and support groups. The availability of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of specialized geriatric services. Geriatricians are physicians with specific training in the care of older adults, including the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease. Access to geriatricians is a strong indicator of the healthcare system's ability to provide specialized care for this population. The presence of memory care clinics or centers within the area would also be a positive indicator. These specialized centers offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, treatment plans, and support services for patients with memory disorders and their families.

Another important consideration is the availability of support services for caregivers. Alzheimer's disease places a significant burden on caregivers, who often experience stress, burnout, and social isolation. Practices that offer caregiver support groups, educational programs, and respite care services are better equipped to support these individuals. These services can include counseling, support groups, and respite care services, providing caregivers with the resources they need to manage the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's.

Overall, the 'Alzheimer's Score' for primary care in Grimesland (27837) is a composite measure of these factors. It would reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and specialized geriatric services. The higher the score, the better the primary care system is equipped to support patients and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

To conduct a comprehensive analysis and visualize the data, tools like CartoChrome maps can be invaluable. These maps allow for the geographic representation of healthcare resources, enabling a clear understanding of access and distribution within the Grimesland area.