28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.73 percent of the residents in 28445 has some form of health insurance. 29.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.14 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 28445 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,928 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28445. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,568 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 781 health care providers accessible to residents in 28445, Holly Ridge, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in 28445 & Primary Care in Holly Ridge

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians in Holly Ridge, North Carolina (ZIP code 28445), with a specific focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, ultimately constructing an "Alzheimer's Score" to gauge the community's preparedness for the challenges of this disease.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care rests on accessible and knowledgeable primary care physicians. These doctors are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. They are responsible for initial assessments, referrals to specialists, and ongoing management of the patient's overall health, which is crucial in managing the symptoms and progression of the disease.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This refers to the number of primary care physicians available to serve the population. A low ratio can indicate limited access to care, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. In 28445, the physician-to-patient ratio needs careful examination. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) should be consulted to determine the current ratio. Ideally, this data will be updated frequently. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally indicates better access. This data should be compared to state and national averages to provide context.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying standout practices involves researching individual clinics and physician groups within the ZIP code. This assessment goes beyond simple numbers and delves into the quality of care provided. Key indicators include:

* **Specialized Training:** Does the practice have physicians with specific training or certifications in geriatrics or cognitive disorders?
* **Comprehensive Services:** Do they offer a range of services, including memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and support for caregivers?
* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into patient experiences, including the physician's bedside manner, communication skills, and responsiveness to patient needs.
* **Technology Integration:** Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, facilitating information sharing and coordination of care?

Practices that demonstrate a commitment to these areas are more likely to provide high-quality Alzheimer's care. The investigation should identify practices that actively participate in research or community outreach related to dementia.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Holly Ridge. Its adoption rate within the primary care practices in 28445 is a significant factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be a significant burden for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

The analysis should determine:

* **Telemedicine Availability:** Do practices offer virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication management, and consultations?
* **Technology Infrastructure:** Do practices have the necessary technology infrastructure to support telemedicine, including secure video conferencing platforms and reliable internet connectivity?
* **Patient Education:** Do practices provide education and support to patients and caregivers on how to use telemedicine effectively?

Practices that embrace telemedicine are better positioned to provide timely and accessible care to patients with Alzheimer's.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health resources is therefore crucial. This includes:

* **Psychiatrists and Psychologists:** Are there psychiatrists and psychologists in the area who specialize in geriatric mental health or dementia care?
* **Counseling Services:** Are there counseling services available for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers?
* **Support Groups:** Are there support groups for caregivers and individuals with Alzheimer's, providing emotional support and practical advice?
* **Community Programs:** Are there community programs that offer respite care, day programs, or other services that support individuals with Alzheimer's and their families?

The presence of a robust network of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive Alzheimer's care.

**Alzheimer's Score Construction:**

Based on the factors above, an "Alzheimer's Score" can be constructed. This score is not a precise scientific measurement, but rather a qualitative assessment of the community's preparedness for Alzheimer's care. The score could be based on a point system, where each factor is assigned a weight based on its importance. For example:

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** 25%
* **Standout Practices:** 30%
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** 20%
* **Mental Health Resources:** 25%

Each factor is then evaluated, and points are assigned based on the findings. The total score reflects the overall level of preparedness for Alzheimer's care in 28445. A higher score indicates better access to care, more specialized services, and a stronger support system for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

**Conclusion:**

The quality of primary care in Holly Ridge, North Carolina, is a critical determinant of the community's ability to support individuals living with Alzheimer's disease. By carefully examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources, we can gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the community's preparedness and identifying areas where improvements are needed.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographical distribution of these resources and their proximity to the population, explore the interactive maps available through CartoChrome. CartoChrome can help visualize the data and allow for a more in-depth analysis.