28531, Harkers Island, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28531, Harkers Island, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.04 percent of the residents in 28531 has some form of health insurance. 40.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.08 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 28531 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 184 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28531. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 339 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,152 health care providers accessible to residents in 28531, Harkers Island, North Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Harkers Island (ZIP Code 28531)

This analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians and related resources within the Harkers Island, North Carolina (ZIP code 28531) area, specifically focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" based on the identified strengths and weaknesses. This score isn't a single number but a qualitative assessment of the environment for individuals and families navigating this challenging disease.

The primary care physician (PCP) landscape in Harkers Island is a critical starting point. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of accessibility. Due to the relatively small population of Harkers Island and the surrounding area, the raw number of PCPs is likely limited. This necessitates an examination of the broader county and regional healthcare systems to understand the availability of primary care services. The distance patients must travel to access a PCP significantly impacts care, especially for those with mobility issues or cognitive decline.

Beyond the simple ratio, the types of practices available are important. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often offer greater coverage, allowing for more flexible appointment scheduling and potentially reducing wait times. They may also have a wider range of specialists available within the same network, which is crucial for managing the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients.

Standout practices, if any, would be those demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care. This includes physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or those who have a demonstrable focus on the needs of older adults. Does a practice offer comprehensive geriatric assessments? Do they coordinate care with other specialists, such as neurologists, psychiatrists, and physical therapists? These are key indicators of a practice’s suitability for Alzheimer's patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for expanding access to care, particularly for individuals in rural or underserved areas. The ability to conduct virtual appointments can reduce travel burdens and allow for more frequent check-ins, which is especially beneficial for managing chronic conditions like Alzheimer's. The availability of telemedicine consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease frequently presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore paramount. Are there local mental health clinics or therapists accepting new patients? Is there easy access to psychiatric medication management? The presence of support groups for patients and caregivers is also essential. These groups provide invaluable emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community.

Caregiver support services are another crucial component of the Alzheimer's care ecosystem. Alzheimer's disease places a tremendous burden on caregivers, who often experience significant stress, burnout, and social isolation. The availability of respite care, home health aides, and adult day care programs can provide much-needed relief and support. Are there local organizations that offer caregiver training and education? Do they provide resources on topics such as managing challenging behaviors, legal and financial planning, and accessing community services?

The presence of memory care units or assisted living facilities with specialized Alzheimer's care programs is also a critical consideration. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with dementia, offering specialized activities, trained staff, and a focus on maintaining quality of life. The proximity and quality of these facilities can significantly impact the care options available to patients and their families.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Harkers Island (ZIP code 28531) would be influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare infrastructure, including a sufficient number of PCPs, a strong emphasis on geriatric care, widespread telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, and comprehensive caregiver support services. A low score would suggest significant challenges in accessing care, potentially requiring residents to travel long distances or rely on limited resources.

The specific score would be determined by the relative strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape. For example, even if the physician-to-patient ratio is low, the presence of a geriatric specialist and readily available telemedicine options could partially offset this limitation. Conversely, a high physician-to-patient ratio would be less meaningful if there are limited mental health resources or caregiver support services.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare environment in Harkers Island, highlighting the factors that impact the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families. It is a starting point for understanding the challenges and opportunities in this area. Further research, including direct contact with local healthcare providers and community organizations, would be necessary to develop a more granular and accurate assessment.

To visualize the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of PCPs, specialists, mental health providers, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, helping you understand the accessibility of care in Harkers Island and the surrounding areas.