Health Scores Near 28504, Kinston, North Carolina
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 90.10 percent of the residents in 28504 has some form of health insurance. 48.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.50 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 28504 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 4,187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28504. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,529 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 669 health care providers accessible to residents in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28504, Kinston, North Carolina
| Alzheimers Score | 8 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 20 |
| Provider Score | 37 |
| Hospital Score | 28 |
| Travel Score | 27 |
| 28504 | Kinston | 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: Kinston, NC (ZIP Code 28504)
This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care resources in Kinston, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28504), specifically focusing on factors relevant to the care of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive Alzheimer's care.
Kinston, a city in Lenoir County, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The aging population, coupled with potential socioeconomic disparities, necessitates a thorough examination of the available resources. Alzheimer's disease disproportionately affects older adults, highlighting the importance of readily accessible and well-equipped primary care services in this community.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access Challenges**
Determining an exact physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP code 28504 requires accessing real-time data, which is often proprietary. However, publicly available data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) can provide insights. Lenoir County, in general, may face challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially leading to a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban areas. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments and limited access to specialized care.
Furthermore, the availability of geriatricians, specialists in the care of older adults, is particularly critical for Alzheimer's patients. The scarcity of these specialists can create significant hurdles in diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of the disease. Patients may need to travel outside of Kinston to access geriatric care, adding to the burden on both the patient and their caregivers.
**Standout Practices and Their Impact**
Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several factors, including the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the integration of Alzheimer's-specific services. Practices that prioritize early detection, comprehensive assessment, and ongoing support for patients and their families are particularly valuable. These practices often employ specialized staff, such as nurses and social workers, who are trained in Alzheimer's care.
The availability of memory clinics, which offer specialized diagnostic services and treatment plans, is a significant advantage. These clinics often provide cognitive assessments, medication management, and counseling services. Practices that participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's disease demonstrate a commitment to advancing care and providing access to the latest treatment options.
**Telemedicine Adoption: A Critical Bridge**
Telemedicine offers a crucial solution to address access challenges, especially in rural areas like Kinston. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, provide remote monitoring, and offer educational resources can significantly improve the quality of care for Alzheimer's patients. Telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be particularly challenging for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.
The adoption of telemedicine requires adequate infrastructure, including reliable internet access and patient access to technology. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and integrated them seamlessly into their workflow are better positioned to serve patients with Alzheimer's disease. The availability of virtual support groups and educational resources further enhances the value of telemedicine.
**Mental Health Resources: A Vital Component**
Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health resources is therefore essential for comprehensive care. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) who specialize in geriatric mental health.
The presence of support groups for both patients and caregivers is also crucial. These groups provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, through co-location or referral networks, can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.
**Alzheimer's Score Assessment (Conceptual)**
Based on the factors discussed, a hypothetical Alzheimer's Score for primary care in Kinston (ZIP code 28504) would likely reflect the challenges and opportunities present. The score would be influenced by:
* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** A lower ratio would negatively impact the score.
* **Geriatric Specialist Availability:** The presence of geriatricians would significantly improve the score.
* **Standout Practices:** Practices offering specialized Alzheimer's services, memory clinics, and research participation would enhance the score.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** Widespread telemedicine use would boost the score.
* **Mental Health Resources:** The availability of mental health professionals and support groups would positively impact the score.
A comprehensive assessment would require access to detailed, up-to-date data, which is often proprietary.
**Conclusion**
The quality of Alzheimer's care in Kinston, North Carolina, hinges on the availability and accessibility of primary care resources. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio, promoting the development of specialized practices, expanding telemedicine adoption, and ensuring access to mental health services are critical steps in improving the lives of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families.
**Call to Action**
To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and mental health facilities, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable tool for understanding the landscape of care in Kinston and identifying areas where resources may be lacking. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.
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