28465, Oak Island, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.34 percent of the residents in 28465 has some form of health insurance. 42.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.54 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 28465 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 766 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28465. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,798 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,091 health care providers accessible to residents in 28465, Oak Island, North Carolina.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: Oak Island, NC (ZIP Code 28465)

This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care and related resources within ZIP code 28465, specifically focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. We aim to provide an "Alzheimers Score" assessment, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to mental health services, all crucial for supporting individuals and families navigating this challenging condition. The score, while not a formal metric, reflects the overall preparedness of the local healthcare ecosystem to address the needs of those affected by Alzheimer's.

The foundation of any Alzheimer's care plan rests on accessible primary care. In Oak Island, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical determinant of this accessibility. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in the area is a key consideration. A low ratio, indicating a higher concentration of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent per patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access to timely and consistent care. The current ratio in 28465, and the surrounding Brunswick County area, needs careful evaluation. Publicly available data from sources like the North Carolina Medical Board and the U.S. Census Bureau, when combined, can provide a more precise understanding of the physician-to-population dynamics.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of local primary care practices significantly impact their ability to provide Alzheimer's care. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they have experience managing patients with cognitive decline? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate caregiver schedules? Are the offices accessible to individuals with mobility limitations? These factors, though difficult to quantify, contribute to the overall "Alzheimers Score." Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, through staff training or specialized programs, naturally score higher. Some practices may have staff members with specific training in geriatric care or dementia management. Others may have established referral pathways to neurologists or geriatric psychiatrists.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically remote areas. Its adoption rate within 28465 is an important factor. Practices offering telehealth consultations can improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to caregivers. The presence of telehealth capabilities could significantly improve the "Alzheimers Score." Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, and the willingness of physicians to utilize them, is a key part of this analysis.

Mental health resources are another essential component of Alzheimer's care. The disease profoundly impacts both the individual and their caregivers, leading to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists within the Oak Island area is therefore critical. Are there local mental health clinics? Are there support groups for caregivers? Are there resources for individuals with co-occurring mental health conditions? Access to these resources can greatly influence the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's. The presence of readily available mental health services will boost the "Alzheimers Score."

Identifying standout practices within 28465 is important. Some practices may excel in specific areas, such as patient communication, caregiver support, or care coordination. Recognizing these practices, and understanding their strengths, can help patients and families make informed decisions about their care. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, or collaborate with local Alzheimer's associations, will likely demonstrate a higher level of commitment to this patient population.

Care coordination is a crucial aspect of Alzheimer's care. The disease often requires a multidisciplinary approach, involving primary care physicians, neurologists, therapists, social workers, and other specialists. Practices that have established care coordination systems, such as electronic health records that facilitate information sharing, or dedicated care coordinators, can significantly improve the patient experience. These practices will naturally receive a higher "Alzheimers Score."

The "Alzheimers Score" for 28465, based on the factors discussed, is a composite assessment. It is not a single number but a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to Alzheimer's care. The score is affected by the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized geriatric care, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, and the presence of care coordination systems. A higher score indicates a more supportive environment for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

The availability of support groups and educational programs for caregivers is another important consideration. Caregivers often experience significant stress and burnout, and access to these resources can make a significant difference in their well-being and their ability to provide effective care. Local community centers, churches, and Alzheimer's associations may offer these valuable services. The presence and accessibility of these resources will contribute to a higher "Alzheimers Score."

Furthermore, the presence of assisted living facilities, memory care units, and skilled nursing facilities in the area is also relevant. While not directly related to primary care, these facilities provide essential support for individuals with Alzheimer's as the disease progresses. The availability of these facilities, and their quality of care, can influence the overall "Alzheimers Score" for the region.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimers Score" for Oak Island (28465) is a reflection of the local healthcare system's preparedness to address the complex needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. A comprehensive assessment involves evaluating physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of support services.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Oak Island and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, mental health facilities, and support services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of these resources, helping you to visualize the accessibility of care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.