07755, Oakhurst, New Jersey Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 07755, Oakhurst, New Jersey is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.08 percent of the residents in 07755 has some form of health insurance. 30.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.85 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 07755 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,098 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 07755. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 998 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,004 health care providers accessible to residents in 07755, Oakhurst, New Jersey.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Oakhurst, NJ (ZIP Code 07755)

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their capacity to address the needs of individuals, particularly those at risk for or living with Alzheimer's disease, within the Oakhurst, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07755) area. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in providing comprehensive care for this vulnerable population. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" reflecting the community's preparedness to support individuals and families navigating the complexities of this devastating disease.

The cornerstone of Alzheimer's care often rests with the primary care physician. Early detection, ongoing management of comorbidities, and coordination of specialized services are essential. Therefore, a critical factor in our assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, publicly available data and anecdotal evidence suggest a potential shortage of PCPs in certain areas of Monmouth County, including Oakhurst. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnosis or inadequate management of Alzheimer's symptoms. Addressing this potential shortfall is paramount to improving the Alzheimer's Score.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care, and may have specific expertise in geriatric medicine or cognitive impairment. In Oakhurst, we would seek practices that actively screen for cognitive decline, offer comprehensive memory assessments, and have established referral pathways to neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists. Furthermore, practices that employ care coordinators to assist patients and families in navigating the healthcare system would significantly enhance their Alzheimer's Score. The presence of a dedicated memory care clinic or a partnership with local support groups, such as the Alzheimer's Association, would also be highly valued.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for expanding access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those residing in areas with limited healthcare resources. For individuals with Alzheimer's, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring capabilities, would receive a higher Alzheimer's Score. This technology can also provide support to caregivers, offering virtual support groups and educational resources, which is a critical component of care.

The availability of mental health resources is intrinsically linked to the quality of Alzheimer's care. Depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes are common symptoms of the disease, and access to mental health professionals is essential for managing these challenges. The Alzheimer's Score will be positively impacted by the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health within the Oakhurst area. Furthermore, the existence of support groups and counseling services specifically designed for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers is critical. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health providers, ensuring seamless communication and coordinated care, is highly desirable.

The Alzheimer's Score is also influenced by the overall community support infrastructure. This includes the availability of assisted living facilities, memory care units, and home healthcare services. These resources provide essential support for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families, allowing them to maintain their independence for as long as possible and ensuring a safe and supportive environment. The presence of these services within the Oakhurst area, along with their quality and accessibility, will contribute to a higher Alzheimer's Score.

Furthermore, the Alzheimer's Score will consider the level of community awareness and education regarding Alzheimer's disease. This includes the availability of educational programs for the public, training for healthcare providers, and initiatives to reduce stigma associated with the disease. Communities that actively promote awareness and understanding of Alzheimer's are better equipped to support individuals and families affected by the disease.

In conclusion, evaluating the Alzheimer's Score for Oakhurst, NJ (ZIP Code 07755) requires a comprehensive assessment of several factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with expertise in geriatric care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the support infrastructure for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families, and the level of community awareness and education. While a precise numerical score would require extensive data collection and analysis, this framework provides a valuable guide for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Oakhurst and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialized care facilities, and support services, we recommend exploring interactive mapping tools. Tools like CartoChrome maps can visually represent this data, allowing you to analyze the accessibility of care and identify potential gaps in services within the Oakhurst area. This visual representation can be a powerful tool for individuals, families, and healthcare providers seeking to navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care.