The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 83.92 percent of the residents in 28586 has some form of health insurance. 42.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.44 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 28586 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,477 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28586. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,278 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina.
Health Scores in 28586, Vanceboro, North Carolina
Alzheimers Score | 8 |
---|---|
People Score | 17 |
Provider Score | 35 |
Hospital Score | 37 |
Travel Score | 25 |
28586 | Vanceboro | 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: Vanceboro, NC (ZIP Code 28586)
This analysis evaluates the preparedness of Vanceboro, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28586) for the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, focusing on primary care physician availability, resources, and the overall healthcare landscape. The assessment considers factors crucial for early detection, diagnosis, management, and support for individuals and families affected by this devastating illness. The analysis will not provide a numerical "Alzheimer's Score" but rather a qualitative assessment of the existing conditions.
**Primary Care Physician Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios**
A fundamental aspect of Alzheimer's care is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline and play a vital role in initial screening, referral to specialists, and ongoing management of related health issues. In Vanceboro, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio (fewer physicians per capita) indicates potential challenges in accessing timely and consistent care. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio within the 28586 ZIP code is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation. This data should be sourced from reliable databases such as the North Carolina Medical Board or the US Census Bureau.
Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs within the community matters. Are the existing physicians evenly distributed, or are there geographical pockets with limited access? Are they accepting new patients, and what are their wait times for appointments? These factors significantly impact the ability of individuals to seek care promptly. The availability of geriatricians, who specialize in the health of older adults, is particularly relevant. Their expertise in managing age-related cognitive decline is invaluable.
**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**
Identifying standout primary care practices in Vanceboro is essential. These practices may demonstrate best practices in Alzheimer's care. This involves assessing their approach to cognitive screening, their knowledge of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, and their willingness to participate in continuing medical education. Practices that actively screen patients for cognitive impairment, utilize standardized assessment tools (like the Mini-Cog or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment), and have established referral pathways to specialists (neurologists, geriatric psychiatrists) are highly commendable.
Another factor to consider is the practice's commitment to patient education and support. Do they provide educational materials about Alzheimer's disease, its symptoms, and available resources? Do they offer support groups or connect patients and families with local organizations that provide care and assistance? Practices that prioritize these elements are better equipped to support patients and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's.
**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**
Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Vanceboro. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices can significantly improve access to care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments and their caregivers.
Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and even cognitive assessments. It can also connect patients with specialists who may not be readily available locally. The extent of telemedicine adoption in Vanceboro's primary care practices is a critical factor in assessing the community's preparedness for Alzheimer's. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it into their care delivery models are better positioned to support patients and families.
**Mental Health Resources and Their Role**
Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, agitation, and psychosis. Access to mental health resources is, therefore, paramount. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) in Vanceboro is a key consideration. The ability of patients and families to access mental health services promptly is crucial for managing the behavioral and emotional challenges associated with Alzheimer's.
Beyond individual therapy, support groups play a vital role in providing emotional support, education, and practical guidance to caregivers. The presence of support groups for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families in Vanceboro is a positive indicator of community support. These groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, learning coping strategies, and connecting with others who understand the challenges of Alzheimer's. The existence of respite care services, which provide temporary relief for caregivers, is another important factor in assessing the community's support system.
**Overall Assessment and Considerations**
The overall assessment of Vanceboro's preparedness for Alzheimer's disease hinges on a combination of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of geriatric specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical components. The commitment of primary care practices to cognitive screening, patient education, and support services is also essential.
A comprehensive evaluation would involve gathering data from various sources, including local healthcare providers, public health agencies, and community organizations. This data would then be analyzed to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
**Call to Action**
Understanding the healthcare landscape in Vanceboro, NC, is vital for providing adequate care. To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas with limited access, consider utilizing the powerful mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, mental health services, and other relevant resources, helping to identify gaps in care and inform strategies for improving access to healthcare for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain valuable insights into your community's healthcare ecosystem.
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