28412, Wilmington, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28412, Wilmington, North Carolina is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.33 percent of the residents in 28412 has some form of health insurance. 33.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.15 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 28412 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,627 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 12 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28412. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,928 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 28412, Wilmington, North Carolina.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge, demanding comprehensive care and readily accessible resources. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians within ZIP Code 28412 (Wilmington, NC) and its surrounding areas, crucial for early diagnosis, management, and support for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's. We will assess the landscape based on key factors including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. In areas with a high concentration of elderly residents, like Wilmington, adequate primary care physician availability is paramount. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a favorable ratio allows for more personalized care, proactive screening, and better management of chronic conditions, including Alzheimer's. Specific data on the physician-to-patient ratio within 28412 and surrounding areas is critical for a complete assessment. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the US Department of Health and Human Services can provide insights, but these metrics need to be interpreted in the context of the local population's demographics and healthcare needs.

Standout practices in the Wilmington area demonstrate best practices in geriatric care and Alzheimer's management. These practices often prioritize comprehensive assessments, including cognitive evaluations, functional assessments, and medication reviews. They may also offer specialized programs, such as memory clinics, support groups, and caregiver education. Practices that embrace a multidisciplinary approach, involving primary care physicians, neurologists, geriatricians, psychiatrists, and social workers, are particularly valuable. Identifying these standout practices requires research into physician profiles, patient reviews, and practice websites to ascertain their focus on geriatric care, their experience with Alzheimer's, and their commitment to providing a supportive environment for patients and families.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, facilitate remote monitoring, and provide convenient consultations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer virtual appointments, medication management, and remote cognitive assessments. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors such as technology infrastructure, patient access to devices, and the physician's comfort level with virtual consultations. The availability of telemedicine services within 28412 and the extent to which these services are integrated into the overall care plan are essential considerations.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The disease significantly impacts both the patient's and the caregiver's mental well-being. Depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes are common symptoms. Primary care physicians must have access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, to provide comprehensive support. The presence of these resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is a crucial factor in assessing the quality of Alzheimer's care. This includes the availability of support groups, caregiver education programs, and mental health counseling services.

In conclusion, the assessment of primary care availability in Wilmington, NC, for individuals with Alzheimer's requires a multifaceted approach. Evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices with specialized geriatric care, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources are essential components of a comprehensive analysis. The availability of these resources directly impacts the quality of life for patients and their families.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in the Wilmington area, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialist practices, and support services, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geographical representation of healthcare resources, allowing for a more informed assessment of accessibility and availability.