27920, Buxton, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27920, Buxton, North Carolina is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.24 percent of the residents in 27920 has some form of health insurance. 27.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.79 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 27920 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 333 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27920. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 259 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 21 health care providers accessible to residents in 27920, Buxton, North Carolina.

Alzheimer's disease poses a significant challenge, particularly in rural areas where access to specialized care and support services may be limited. This analysis examines the availability of primary care physicians and associated resources in Buxton, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27920), focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. It aims to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare landscape.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access to care. In Buxton, the sparse population distribution and its location on the Outer Banks could potentially lead to a lower physician density compared to more urbanized areas. This means that the number of primary care physicians serving the population might be relatively small. Assessing the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires detailed data that is often not publicly available. However, the remoteness of the location suggests that patients may face longer travel times to reach their primary care physician, potentially impacting the timeliness of diagnosis and treatment for conditions like Alzheimer's.

Primary care physicians play a vital role in the early detection and management of Alzheimer's. They are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline. Their ability to conduct initial assessments, refer patients to specialists (such as neurologists or geriatricians), and coordinate care is critical. The availability of primary care, therefore, directly affects the ability of residents in Buxton to access timely and appropriate care.

Standout practices, if any, in the area might distinguish themselves through specialized services or programs. For instance, a practice might have a dedicated memory care clinic, offer cognitive assessments, or participate in clinical trials related to Alzheimer's. Identifying such practices requires in-depth research. However, in a rural setting, it is possible that these types of specialized resources are limited. The presence of any such practice would be a significant asset to the community.

Telemedicine adoption presents an opportunity to bridge the gap in healthcare access. In a geographically isolated area like Buxton, telemedicine can enable patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for extensive travel. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and access to educational resources. The extent of telemedicine adoption by primary care practices in the area is a key factor in assessing the quality of care available. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve access to care for patients with Alzheimer's.

Mental health resources are also crucial in supporting individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Alzheimer's often brings about behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is essential for managing these symptoms and providing emotional support. The availability of support groups, respite care services, and caregiver training programs is also vital. The presence of these resources within the community or in nearby areas will significantly influence the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's.

The overall 'Alzheimer's Score' for Buxton, 27920, is likely to be influenced by several factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources will all contribute to this score. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to specialists, low telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health resources would likely result in a lower score, indicating challenges in accessing comprehensive Alzheimer's care.

The remoteness of Buxton also poses challenges in terms of access to specialists. Neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists who can diagnose and treat Alzheimer's may not be readily available in the immediate area. Patients may need to travel to larger cities or medical centers to receive specialized care. This travel burden can be particularly difficult for individuals with cognitive impairments and their caregivers.

Caregiver support is another critical aspect of Alzheimer's care. Caring for a person with Alzheimer's can be emotionally and physically demanding. The availability of support groups, respite care services, and caregiver training programs can significantly ease the burden on caregivers and improve their well-being. The absence of these resources can lead to caregiver burnout and negatively impact the quality of care provided to the person with Alzheimer's.

The quality of care for Alzheimer's patients is also dependent on the availability of diagnostic tools and treatments. Access to advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, is essential for accurate diagnosis. The availability of medications and other therapies can also impact the management of the disease. The healthcare infrastructure in Buxton, including the availability of these resources, will play a crucial role in the overall quality of care.

Community awareness and education are also important factors. Raising awareness about Alzheimer's, its symptoms, and available resources can help to promote early detection and diagnosis. Educational programs for healthcare providers, caregivers, and the general public can also improve the quality of care. The presence of community-based initiatives and educational programs can positively influence the 'Alzheimer's Score' for the area.

The 'Alzheimer's Score' is not just about the availability of medical resources; it also encompasses the social and emotional support available to patients and their families. The strength of the community, the availability of social services, and the level of public awareness all play a role in creating a supportive environment for those affected by Alzheimer's. The overall quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers depends on the availability of these resources.

In conclusion, assessing the Alzheimer's care landscape in Buxton, North Carolina, requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the strength of community support all contribute to the overall quality of care. While the remoteness of the area may present challenges, the adoption of telemedicine and the development of community-based support programs can help to improve access to care and enhance the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Buxton and other areas, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides valuable insights into healthcare access and availability.