27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.52 percent of the residents in 27964 has some form of health insurance. 19.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.95 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 27964 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 166 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 25 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 27964. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 143 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 753 health care providers accessible to residents in 27964, Point Harbor, North Carolina.

The following analysis assesses the quality of Alzheimer's care and primary care availability in Point Harbor, North Carolina (ZIP code 27964), focusing on factors relevant to patient well-being and access to care. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in supporting individuals facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

Point Harbor, a small coastal community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The area's demographic, with a significant population of retirees and older adults, heightens the importance of accessible and high-quality primary care, especially given the increased prevalence of Alzheimer's disease with age. Evaluating the healthcare landscape requires a granular understanding of the resources available within the community and the surrounding areas.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. In rural areas, the availability of primary care physicians can be limited. Data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, combined with information from the U.S. Census Bureau, would be essential to determine the precise ratio in Point Harbor. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater availability of doctors per resident, is generally associated with better access to care, including timely diagnoses and management of chronic conditions like Alzheimer's. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained relationships between patients and physicians.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care. This includes practices that offer specialized services for geriatric patients, such as memory clinics or cognitive assessments. Practices that actively participate in research or clinical trials related to Alzheimer's disease also deserve recognition. Furthermore, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and integrated care models, where primary care physicians collaborate with specialists, are crucial for coordinated care. Reviews from patients, accessible through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience at different practices.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to healthcare. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. In the context of Alzheimer's care, telemedicine can be used for initial consultations, medication management, and providing support to caregivers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to serve patients in Point Harbor and the surrounding areas. The availability of reliable internet access, however, remains a critical factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives in this region.

Mental health resources are an integral component of Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers often experience a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including depression, anxiety, and caregiver burnout. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential for providing support and treatment. Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care offerings or have established referral networks with mental health providers are better equipped to address the complex needs of patients with Alzheimer's and their families. Support groups, educational programs, and respite care services also play a vital role in supporting caregivers and improving the overall quality of life for those affected by the disease.

Assessing the quality of Alzheimer's care in Point Harbor requires a holistic approach. It involves evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The evaluation should also consider the specific needs of the community, including its demographic composition and geographic limitations. A comprehensive assessment would involve gathering data from various sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and patient feedback.

Primary care availability in Point Harbor is directly impacted by factors such as physician density, the presence of specialized geriatric services, and the integration of mental health resources. The ability of local primary care physicians to diagnose and manage Alzheimer's disease is crucial. The availability of specialized services, such as memory clinics, cognitive assessments, and access to neurologists, can significantly improve the quality of care. The integration of mental health services, including counseling and support groups, is also essential for supporting patients and their families.

A practice that demonstrates a commitment to providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care would likely exhibit several key characteristics. These include a focus on early detection and diagnosis, the use of evidence-based treatment strategies, and a strong emphasis on patient and caregiver education. The practice would also likely have established referral networks with specialists, such as neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists, and would actively participate in research or clinical trials related to Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, the practice would likely have adopted telemedicine technologies to improve access to care and provide remote monitoring capabilities.

The success of telemedicine in Point Harbor depends on several factors. Reliable internet access is essential for virtual consultations and remote monitoring. The availability of trained healthcare professionals who can provide virtual care is also crucial. Patient acceptance and willingness to use telemedicine technologies also play a significant role. Practices that offer telemedicine services should ensure that patients are comfortable using the technology and that they have access to the necessary support.

Mental health resources in Point Harbor are vital for supporting individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential for providing support and treatment. Support groups, educational programs, and respite care services can also play a vital role in improving the quality of life for those affected by the disease. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of Alzheimer's care and primary care availability in Point Harbor requires a multifaceted approach. This involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The findings of this analysis can be used to identify areas for improvement and to support the development of strategies to enhance the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families in this community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Point Harbor and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and the presence of mental health services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.