28449, Kure Beach, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28449, Kure Beach, North Carolina is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.61 percent of the residents in 28449 has some form of health insurance. 23.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 91.64 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 28449 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 311 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 14 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28449. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 505 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19,264 health care providers accessible to residents in 28449, Kure Beach, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Kure Beach, NC (ZIP Code 28449)

Analyzing the availability and quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease in Kure Beach, North Carolina (ZIP code 28449) requires a multi-faceted approach. We will examine the "Alzheimer's Score" based on key factors: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for those affected by this devastating disease and their families.

The foundation of any effective Alzheimer's care system lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Kure Beach, and the surrounding areas encompassed by ZIP code 28449, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. Assessing this ratio involves considering the total number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the specified geographical area and comparing it to the population size, particularly the aging demographic. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This can significantly impact the timely management of Alzheimer's disease.

Furthermore, the concentration of specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, is crucial. These specialists possess the expertise necessary for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing management of Alzheimer's. The availability of these specialists directly impacts the quality of care available. If specialists are scarce, patients may need to travel significant distances for consultations and specialized treatments, which can be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments and their caregivers.

Standout practices within the Kure Beach area play a vital role in enhancing the Alzheimer's Score. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care. Key indicators of a standout practice include a dedicated team of healthcare professionals trained in Alzheimer's care, including physicians, nurses, social workers, and therapists. They may offer specialized services, such as memory clinics, support groups, and caregiver education programs. Practices actively participating in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's disease also demonstrate a commitment to advancing knowledge and improving patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in evaluating the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine offers a convenient and accessible avenue for patients and caregivers to receive care, especially in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine platforms enable remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The availability of telemedicine services can improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery, enhancing the overall quality of care.

The presence of robust mental health resources is essential for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Alzheimer's disease can cause significant emotional and psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for addressing these challenges. Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment for caregivers to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies. The availability of these resources directly impacts the well-being of both patients and their caregivers, significantly influencing the overall quality of care.

Assessing the availability of these resources requires a detailed investigation. This includes identifying local mental health clinics, therapists, and support groups. Moreover, it involves evaluating the accessibility of these resources, considering factors such as insurance coverage, wait times for appointments, and the availability of transportation. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan is crucial for providing comprehensive and holistic support.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Kure Beach, NC (ZIP code 28449) is determined by a complex interplay of factors. While a precise numerical score is beyond the scope of this analysis, we can infer that the quality of care is dependent on the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialist physicians, the availability of standout practices offering specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The more robust these elements, the higher the Alzheimer's Score, and the better the care available to those affected by this disease.

To gain a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kure Beach, NC, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers a valuable tool for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to assess the proximity of healthcare providers, identify areas with limited access to care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.