24828, Davy, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24828, Davy, West Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.76 percent of the residents in 24828 has some form of health insurance. 75.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 18.69 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 24828 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 278 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24828. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 90 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 527 health care providers accessible to residents in 24828, Davy, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Davy, WV (24828)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, specifically concerning Alzheimer's disease, in the Davy, West Virginia (ZIP code 24828) area presents a complex challenge. This analysis considers factors impacting access to care, including physician availability, the presence of specialized services, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis aims to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering the specific needs of individuals and families dealing with this debilitating condition.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care lies within primary care. In Davy, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical starting point. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is essential. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to delayed diagnoses and limited access to ongoing management. Researching publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the US Census Bureau is crucial. This information, combined with data from healthcare directories, allows for an estimation of the physician-to-patient ratio within the 24828 ZIP code and the broader Davy area. This ratio significantly impacts the initial score.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care matters. Are PCPs in Davy equipped with the knowledge and resources to recognize early signs of cognitive decline? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians? The presence of these specialists is critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. A low number of specialists will negatively impact the score.

Furthermore, the availability of diagnostic tools, like cognitive assessments and neuroimaging, within a reasonable distance is crucial. Access to these resources is a key factor in the overall score. The score will be impacted by the availability of memory care centers, assisted living facilities with specialized Alzheimer's units, and home healthcare services that provide support for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, particularly in rural areas like Davy. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists, access remote monitoring services, and receive medication management via telehealth can significantly improve the quality of care. The adoption rate of telemedicine by local practices and the availability of telehealth-friendly infrastructure (reliable internet access) will influence the score.

Mental health resources are intertwined with Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Caregivers also face significant emotional and psychological challenges. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential. The availability of support groups and counseling services for both patients and caregivers will positively influence the score.

Standout practices in the area could be identified through patient reviews, peer recommendations, and online searches. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care, such as offering specialized memory clinics, participating in clinical trials, or employing staff trained in dementia care, would receive a higher rating. The score will be weighted towards practices that are actively involved in Alzheimer's care.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a static number but a reflection of the healthcare ecosystem's ability to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. The score would be determined by a weighted average of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources would each contribute to the overall score.

The specific score would be impacted by the availability of support groups, respite care, and educational resources for caregivers. The presence of these resources is crucial for the well-being of both patients and their families.

The score would also consider the accessibility of transportation services. Transportation challenges can prevent individuals from attending appointments and accessing necessary care. The availability of transportation options, such as public transportation, ride-sharing services, and volunteer driver programs, would impact the score.

Furthermore, the score would be influenced by the level of community awareness and education regarding Alzheimer's disease. Public awareness campaigns, educational programs for healthcare providers, and community outreach initiatives can improve early detection and promote better care.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is intended to be a dynamic assessment. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the availability of Alzheimer's care in Davy, West Virginia (24828).

The score is not a definitive judgment but a tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system. It can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better care for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

The score is a starting point for a more in-depth analysis. It is essential to consult with healthcare professionals, community organizations, and individuals affected by Alzheimer's to gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in Davy, WV.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Davy, WV, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the geographic distribution of the population, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.