28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.15 percent of the residents in 28357 has some form of health insurance. 51.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.75 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 28357 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 525 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28357. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 388 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,765 health care providers accessible to residents in 28357, Lumber Bridge, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Lumber Bridge, NC (ZIP Code 28357)

This analysis provides an assessment of the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within the Lumber Bridge, NC (ZIP Code 28357) area. It focuses on primary care physicians (PCPs), a crucial point of initial contact and ongoing management for individuals experiencing cognitive decline, and considers factors that influence the overall quality of care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape concerning Alzheimer's care.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with PCPs. In Lumber Bridge, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised quality of care. Analyzing the actual ratio requires data from multiple sources, including the US Census Bureau for population figures and state medical licensing boards or professional organizations for physician counts. Publicly available data on physician distribution often lags, making real-time assessment challenging. However, estimates can be derived by comparing the area's demographics to regional or national averages. If the ratio is significantly below the national average, it raises concerns about access to care.

Beyond simple numbers, the characteristics of local primary care practices are important. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer comprehensive services, including cognitive assessments or referrals to specialists? Larger practices, or those affiliated with larger healthcare systems, might have more resources, such as dedicated memory care units or access to specialists like neurologists and geriatricians. Smaller, independent practices might offer more personalized care, but could lack the same level of specialized expertise. Researching the specific practices in the area, including their websites, patient reviews, and affiliations, provides valuable insight.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas like Lumber Bridge. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local PCPs is a key indicator. Do practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or online patient portals? Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to be better equipped to manage patients with Alzheimer's, providing convenient access to care and potentially improving patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are also critical. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers in the area is a key factor. Are there readily available mental health services? Are there specialized programs for patients with dementia and their caregivers? Access to mental health support can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and their families. A shortage of mental health professionals can exacerbate the challenges of managing Alzheimer's.

Another aspect to consider is the availability of support services for caregivers. Caring for a person with Alzheimer's can be emotionally and physically demanding. Support groups, respite care services, and educational programs for caregivers are essential. These resources can help caregivers cope with the challenges of providing care and prevent burnout. The presence of these services in the Lumber Bridge area is a positive indicator of a supportive healthcare environment.

Specific practices within the 28357 ZIP code warrant individual scrutiny. Identifying practices that have demonstrated a commitment to Alzheimer's care, perhaps through specialized training for staff or participation in clinical trials, is essential. Examining online patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Are patients satisfied with the level of care they receive? Do they feel supported by their physicians and care teams? This qualitative data complements the quantitative analysis of physician-to-patient ratios and resource availability.

The presence of community resources, such as the Alzheimer's Association or local chapters of other organizations that provide support and education, is also important. These organizations can offer valuable information, resources, and support to patients and their families. Their presence in the Lumber Bridge area can indicate a stronger community commitment to Alzheimer's care.

The overall 'Alzheimer's Score' for Lumber Bridge, NC (ZIP Code 28357) is not a simple numerical value. It is a composite assessment based on multiple factors. The analysis must weigh the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of caregiver support services, and the existence of community resources. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health services would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a high ratio, robust telemedicine offerings, and a strong network of support services would enhance the score.

Ultimately, improving the 'Alzheimer's Score' for Lumber Bridge requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes increasing the number of PCPs, encouraging telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health services, and strengthening caregiver support. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a comprehensive and supportive healthcare environment for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families.

For a comprehensive visual analysis of healthcare resources in Lumber Bridge, NC, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to support services, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome.