28516, Beaufort, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28516, Beaufort, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.61 percent of the residents in 28516 has some form of health insurance. 48.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.44 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 28516 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,768 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28516. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,476 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,375 health care providers accessible to residents in 28516, Beaufort, North Carolina.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 28516 & Primary Care Availability in Beaufort, NC**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services, with a specific focus on resources pertinent to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 28516, encompassing portions of Beaufort, North Carolina. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in supporting individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's. The goal is to provide an Alzheimer's Score, an aggregate assessment of the community's preparedness to address the needs of those affected by this debilitating disease.

The foundation of a strong Alzheimer's support system lies in accessible and capable primary care. In Beaufort, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available information suggests a potential challenge. A higher patient-to-physician ratio, particularly within primary care, can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. This can be detrimental for patients with Alzheimer's, who often require more frequent and detailed medical attention. The availability of geriatric specialists or physicians with specialized training in dementia care is another vital factor. Their expertise in diagnosis, treatment, and management of Alzheimer's is invaluable.

Evaluating the characteristics of primary care practices in 28516 is essential. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? These factors directly impact accessibility, which is particularly important for caregivers who may have limited flexibility. Practices that actively participate in care coordination, working collaboratively with specialists, therapists, and social workers, are more likely to provide comprehensive care. The presence of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as cognitive assessments, can streamline the diagnostic process, leading to earlier interventions.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has emerged as a crucial tool, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Beaufort significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring, allowing patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes. It can also improve access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and a willingness to adapt to the evolving needs of the community.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical component of Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is vital for managing these symptoms and supporting both patients and their caregivers. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health providers or offer in-house mental health services are better positioned to provide comprehensive care. The availability of support groups, educational programs, and respite care services further enhances the community's ability to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

The Alzheimer's Score for doctors in 28516 and primary care availability in Beaufort is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment reflecting the current state of healthcare resources. Based on the factors discussed, the score is tentatively assessed as moderate. While the presence of primary care practices and the community's efforts to address Alzheimer's are noted, challenges exist. The physician-to-patient ratio, the limited availability of geriatric specialists, and the degree of telemedicine adoption may need improvement. The availability of mental health resources, while present, could benefit from further expansion and integration.

Identifying standout practices within the community is essential. These practices serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in Alzheimer's care. They might excel in areas such as care coordination, patient education, or the use of technology. Recognizing and celebrating these practices can inspire others to improve their services.

The Alzheimer's Score for Beaufort, NC, is a call to action. It highlights the need for continued investment in healthcare resources, particularly those that support individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. This includes efforts to recruit and retain qualified healthcare professionals, expand access to mental health services, and promote the adoption of telemedicine. The community's collective commitment to improving the Alzheimer's Score will ultimately enhance the quality of life for those affected by this devastating disease.

For a more in-depth understanding of healthcare resources in Beaufort and to visualize the distribution of services, including physician locations, specialist availability, and the proximity of mental health facilities, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. This resource allows for a detailed geographic analysis, enabling individuals and caregivers to make informed decisions about their healthcare options. Access the CartoChrome maps today to gain a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape in Beaufort, NC.