24845, Ikes Fork, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24845, Ikes Fork, West Virginia is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24845 has some form of health insurance. 81.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.48 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 24845 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 172 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24845. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 66 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 531 health care providers accessible to residents in 24845, Ikes Fork, West Virginia.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 24845 and Primary Care in Ikes Fork**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will focus on ZIP Code 24845, encompassing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The focus will also extend to the smaller community of Ikes Fork, West Virginia, to gauge primary care accessibility. Alzheimer’s, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, necessitates consistent medical care, including diagnosis, management of symptoms, and support for both patients and caregivers.

**Physician Availability and Ratios in 24845**

Determining an accurate "Alzheimer's Score" begins with assessing the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, the general scarcity of physicians, especially PCPs and neurologists, is a significant challenge in rural areas like 24845. National averages often don’t reflect local realities. Researching the number of active physicians, including those accepting new patients, is crucial. Websites like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and healthcare directories are valuable resources, though data may be outdated.

The ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, suggests greater difficulty in accessing timely appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This is particularly concerning for Alzheimer's patients, where early intervention can significantly impact the disease's progression and quality of life. The availability of specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, is also vital. These specialists have specific expertise in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. Their presence, or lack thereof, directly impacts the "Alzheimer's Score."

**Primary Care Availability in Ikes Fork**

Ikes Fork, as a smaller community within the broader area served by 24845, faces additional challenges. Primary care access is paramount. The presence of a local clinic or the availability of PCPs within a reasonable driving distance is crucial. Transportation limitations in rural areas can exacerbate the problem. The lack of public transportation, coupled with the challenges faced by elderly individuals in driving, can severely limit access to care.

Analyzing the proximity of primary care facilities is essential. Even if a PCP exists, the distance to the clinic can significantly impact the "Alzheimer's Score." Factors like road conditions and travel time must be considered. The availability of home healthcare services is another important factor, especially for patients with mobility issues or those in the later stages of the disease.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within 24845 is critical. Practices demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care and Alzheimer's management can significantly improve the "Alzheimer's Score." This includes practices that:

* **Offer comprehensive geriatric assessments:** These assessments are tailored to the specific needs of older adults, including cognitive evaluations.
* **Employ specialized staff:** Having nurses or other healthcare professionals trained in dementia care can improve patient outcomes.
* **Provide care coordination:** Coordinating care with specialists, social workers, and other support services is essential for Alzheimer's patients.
* **Participate in clinical trials:** This shows a commitment to advancing Alzheimer's research and offering patients access to innovative treatments.
* **Foster a dementia-friendly environment:** This includes staff training on dementia care and creating a welcoming and supportive environment for patients and their families.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Role**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. Its adoption within 24845 can significantly improve the "Alzheimer's Score." Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities.

The availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of use for patients are all important factors. The practice's willingness to embrace technology and provide support for patients using telemedicine is also crucial.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance**

Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. Access to mental health resources is therefore essential. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists within 24845 directly impacts the "Alzheimer's Score."

The ability to access mental health services, including counseling and medication management, can significantly improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. The presence of support groups and educational resources for caregivers is also vital. These resources can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community.

**Challenges and Considerations**

Several challenges can affect the "Alzheimer's Score" in 24845 and Ikes Fork. These include:

* **Socioeconomic factors:** Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can all hinder access to care.
* **Age of the population:** Rural areas often have a higher proportion of older adults, increasing the demand for geriatric care.
* **Awareness and education:** Raising awareness about Alzheimer's disease and educating the public about early detection and treatment is crucial.
* **Caregiver burden:** Providing support for caregivers is essential, as they often bear the brunt of the responsibility for patient care.

**Conclusion**

Assessing the "Alzheimer's Score" for 24845 and Ikes Fork requires a comprehensive analysis of physician availability, primary care access, the presence of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The specific challenges of rural healthcare, including transportation limitations and socioeconomic factors, must also be considered. The ultimate goal is to identify areas for improvement and advocate for increased access to quality care for individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease.

For a visual representation of healthcare access and related data, including physician locations, facility locations, and demographic information, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 24845 and Ikes Fork, enhancing your ability to assess the "Alzheimer's Score" and identify areas for improvement.