Health Scores Near 28450, Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28450, Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 81.37 percent of the residents in 28450 has some form of health insurance. 42.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.48 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 28450 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 363 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28450. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 570 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,188 health care providers accessible to residents in 28450, Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28450, Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina
| Alzheimers Score | 40 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 71 |
| Provider Score | 36 |
| Hospital Score | 40 |
| Travel Score | 31 |
| 28450 | Lake Waccamaw | North Carolina | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Lake Waccamaw (28450) Primary Care Landscape
Analyzing the primary care landscape in Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28450), through the lens of Alzheimer's care requires a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), the resources available to support patients and their families, and the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine. This analysis aims to provide an Alzheimer's Score, a qualitative assessment reflecting the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address the needs of individuals living with, or at risk of developing, Alzheimer's disease.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Accessibility:**
The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care lies in accessible primary care. This begins with a sufficient number of PCPs to serve the population. Unfortunately, rural areas often face physician shortages. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in Lake Waccamaw requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, would negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, making it difficult for patients and caregivers to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing management, and crucial support.
Furthermore, geographical accessibility plays a significant role. Even with an adequate physician-to-patient ratio, if PCPs are located far from patients, accessibility suffers. This is particularly challenging for individuals with cognitive decline, who may have difficulty driving or arranging transportation. The presence of public transportation options, or the availability of home-based care services, can partially mitigate these challenges.
**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**
Within the primary care landscape, certain practices may demonstrate a higher commitment to Alzheimer's care. These “standout” practices often incorporate several key elements. They might employ staff with specialized training in geriatric care or dementia management. They could actively screen patients for cognitive impairment during routine checkups. They might also offer comprehensive care plans that include medication management, lifestyle recommendations, and referrals to support services.
The presence of these standout practices significantly elevates the Alzheimer's Score. Their commitment to early detection, proactive management, and patient education can improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. These practices often serve as a model for other providers, fostering a culture of improved dementia care within the community.
**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Role:**
Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving access to care, especially in rural settings. In the context of Alzheimer's, telemedicine can be used for various purposes. It can facilitate virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists (like neurologists), and therapists. It can also be used to monitor patients' health remotely, providing timely interventions and support.
The degree of telemedicine adoption within Lake Waccamaw's primary care practices directly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. Practices that actively utilize telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and caregiver support, demonstrate a commitment to overcoming geographical barriers and improving patient convenience. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial factor.
**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance:**
Alzheimer's disease is not only a physical illness but also profoundly impacts mental health. Patients often experience depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. Caregivers also face significant emotional and psychological stress. Therefore, access to mental health resources is critical for comprehensive Alzheimer's care.
The Alzheimer's Score is significantly influenced by the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options also contributes positively. These resources provide essential support for both patients and caregivers, helping them navigate the challenges of the disease and maintain their well-being.
**Specific Considerations for Lake Waccamaw:**
To provide a truly informed Alzheimer's Score, specific data about Lake Waccamaw is essential. This includes:
* **Number of PCPs:** The total number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP Code.
* **Geriatric Specialists:** The availability of geriatricians or neurologists specializing in dementia care within a reasonable driving distance.
* **Support Groups:** The existence of local Alzheimer's support groups or caregiver support programs.
* **Memory Care Facilities:** The availability of memory care facilities or assisted living communities with specialized dementia care units.
* **Community Resources:** The presence of local organizations that provide education, advocacy, and resources for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.
**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**
Based on the factors discussed, an Alzheimer's Score for Lake Waccamaw can be formulated. This score would reflect the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. A higher score would indicate greater accessibility, a higher quality of care, and a more robust support system. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.
To gain a more granular understanding of the primary care landscape in Lake Waccamaw, including the location of physicians, the availability of specific services, and the presence of relevant resources, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to assess accessibility and identify potential gaps in care.
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