27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.21 percent of the residents in 27948 has some form of health insurance. 25.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.76 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 27948 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,947 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27948. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 847 health care providers accessible to residents in 27948, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Kill Devil Hills, NC (ZIP Code 27948)**

Analyzing the availability of Alzheimer's care within Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the direct presence of specialists but also the broader healthcare infrastructure, including primary care access, mental health resources, and the adoption of technologies like telemedicine. The following analysis attempts to quantify the quality of care available in this specific geographic area, generating an "Alzheimer's Score" based on several key factors.

The core of any Alzheimer's care assessment lies in the presence and accessibility of qualified medical professionals. In ZIP Code 27948, the availability of neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists – specialists crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and management of Alzheimer's disease – is a critical starting point. While a comprehensive directory of all practitioners is beyond the scope of this analysis, a preliminary investigation would reveal the number of these specialists actively practicing within the area or readily accessible within a reasonable driving distance. The "physician-to-patient ratio" for these specialists, specifically considering the elderly population in Kill Devil Hills, provides a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of specialists relative to the number of potential patients, would negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by these specialists is equally important. This involves evaluating factors like experience, patient reviews, and affiliations with reputable hospitals or research institutions. Are specialists actively involved in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's disease? This involvement suggests a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in treatment and care. Standout practices would be those that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, offering comprehensive services, including diagnostic testing, medication management, and support for both patients and their families. The availability of support groups, memory care programs, and caregiver resources within these practices would further enhance their standing.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a pivotal role in the early detection and ongoing management of Alzheimer's disease. Their ability to identify cognitive decline, refer patients to specialists, and coordinate care is essential. The "primary care availability" in Kill Devil Hills is therefore a significant factor. This involves assessing the number of PCPs practicing within the area, their patient load, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments. A shortage of PCPs or long wait times for appointments would negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score, as it could delay diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, the PCPs' familiarity with Alzheimer's disease and their willingness to proactively screen for cognitive impairment are crucial.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for expanding access to care, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by specialists and primary care physicians in Kill Devil Hills is a key consideration. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide support through online platforms can significantly improve the quality of care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine would receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors in Kill Devil Hills is therefore crucial. Are there readily accessible mental health services specifically tailored to the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers? The presence of these resources contributes significantly to the overall quality of care. A robust network of mental health professionals, coupled with support groups and educational programs, would positively impact the Alzheimer's Score.

The physical infrastructure of the healthcare system also plays a role. The presence of hospitals with specialized geriatric units or memory care centers is a positive indicator. The availability of skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities that specialize in Alzheimer's care is also important. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with the disease and offer respite for caregivers. The quality of these facilities, as measured by factors like staffing levels, staff training, and patient outcomes, would further influence the Alzheimer's Score.

Finally, the community's overall awareness and understanding of Alzheimer's disease are important. Are there educational programs and outreach initiatives aimed at raising awareness and reducing stigma? Are there resources available to support caregivers, such as respite care services and support groups? A community that is actively engaged in addressing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease would contribute to a higher Alzheimer's Score.

In conclusion, assessing the Alzheimer's Score for Kill Devil Hills (ZIP Code 27948) is a complex undertaking. It requires a thorough evaluation of specialist availability, primary care access, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. While a precise numerical score would require a comprehensive data collection effort, the analysis framework outlined here provides a roadmap for evaluating the quality of Alzheimer's care in this specific geographic area.

To visualize the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and weakness, consider using CartoChrome maps to analyze the distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and access to resources.