08732, Island Heights, New Jersey Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 08732, Island Heights, New Jersey is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.10 percent of the residents in 08732 has some form of health insurance. 35.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.53 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 08732 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 262 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 08732. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 463 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,314 health care providers accessible to residents in 08732, Island Heights, New Jersey.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Island Heights, NJ (ZIP Code 08732)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services within Island Heights, New Jersey (ZIP code 08732), with a specific focus on factors relevant to individuals and families managing Alzheimer's disease. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" perspective, evaluating the accessibility of care, the presence of specialized resources, and the overall support network available within this community.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a formal, standardized metric. It is a qualitative assessment based on publicly available data, including online physician directories, hospital websites, health insurance provider information, and community resources. It considers the following key areas: physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Accessibility**

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests on the strength of the primary care physician (PCP). Early diagnosis, ongoing management of comorbidities, and coordination of care are all critical roles PCPs play. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within Island Heights requires detailed, often proprietary, data. However, publicly accessible information, such as the U.S. Census Bureau and the New Jersey Department of Health, can provide population estimates. These estimates, combined with online physician directories, allow for a rough approximation of the availability of PCPs.

Island Heights, being a relatively small community, likely faces challenges common to many suburban and rural areas: a potential shortage of PCPs. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialists, and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers. The proximity to larger towns like Toms River and Bayville, which offer a greater concentration of medical professionals, is a mitigating factor. However, the reliance on these neighboring communities necessitates considering travel time and transportation options, which are particularly important for individuals with Alzheimer's disease who may have mobility or cognitive limitations.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the practices within and immediately surrounding Island Heights. This includes researching the services offered, the experience of the physicians, and the availability of specialized programs. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, cognitive assessments, and dementia support are highly valuable.

Ideally, standout practices would:

* **Employ physicians with specialized training:** Board-certified geriatricians, neurologists, and psychiatrists with experience in Alzheimer's care are crucial.
* **Offer comprehensive cognitive assessments:** This includes neuropsychological testing and other diagnostic tools to accurately diagnose and monitor cognitive decline.
* **Provide care coordination services:** Navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care requires assistance with medication management, therapy, and support groups.
* **Have established relationships with local support organizations:** Partnerships with the Alzheimer's Association, local senior centers, and other community resources are essential.

The absence of these features could negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Significance**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for populations with mobility issues or limited access to transportation. For individuals with Alzheimer's disease, telemedicine can offer several benefits, including:

* **Remote monitoring:** Physicians can monitor patients' health and medication adherence through virtual visits.
* **Reduced travel burden:** This is especially important for patients and caregivers who may find travel difficult or stressful.
* **Increased access to specialists:** Telemedicine can connect patients with specialists who may not be readily available locally.

The Alzheimer's Score is positively impacted by the adoption of telemedicine by local practices. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are considered more accessible and responsive to the needs of patients with Alzheimer's.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Alzheimer's disease often brings with it significant emotional and psychological challenges for both patients and caregivers. Depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes are common. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. This includes:

* **Psychiatrists and therapists:** Access to mental health professionals who specialize in geriatric care and dementia is essential.
* **Support groups:** Support groups provide a vital network for caregivers to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies.
* **Counseling services:** Individual and family counseling can help address the emotional and practical challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

The presence of these resources within Island Heights or in nearby communities significantly enhances the Alzheimer's Score. The availability of these resources is a key indicator of the community's ability to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion**

Based on the available information, assessing the Alzheimer's Score for Island Heights requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape. While the community may benefit from its proximity to larger towns with more comprehensive medical resources, the potential for a shortage of PCPs and the need for specialized geriatric care are challenges that need to be addressed. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources are critical factors that will influence the overall score.

Further research, including direct contact with local healthcare providers and community organizations, would be necessary to provide a more definitive assessment. This includes a detailed review of the available resources, the training and experience of the physicians, and the level of support offered to patients and caregivers.

**Call to Action**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Island Heights and surrounding areas, and to visualize the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize geographic data, allowing you to identify healthcare resources, assess accessibility, and make informed decisions about your care. Visit CartoChrome maps today to start your journey to a healthier future.