24871, Pageton, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24871, Pageton, West Virginia is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.42 percent of the residents in 24871 has some form of health insurance. 88.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 27.09 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 24871 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24871. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 108 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 108 health care providers accessible to residents in 24871, Pageton, West Virginia.

The following analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment for primary care physicians within ZIP Code 24871, focusing on Pageton, West Virginia, and its surrounding areas. This assessment considers several key factors impacting the diagnosis, treatment, and support available for individuals facing Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. The analysis aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement.

The foundation of any Alzheimer's care system rests on the availability and quality of primary care physicians. In Pageton and the 24871 ZIP Code, assessing this availability is crucial. The physician-to-patient ratio is a primary indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can create significant barriers to accessing timely and comprehensive care. In this rural area, the ratio is likely a concern. The scarcity of physicians can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and a potential for delayed diagnosis.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive geriatric care. This includes physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or neurology, practices that employ nurses or medical assistants trained in dementia care, and those that actively participate in community outreach programs related to Alzheimer's. These practices often offer memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and care coordination services. Identifying these practices requires a deep dive into physician profiles, practice websites, and patient reviews, which can be challenging in a small, rural community.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in Pageton to access specialists and receive ongoing care without traveling long distances. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups. The level of telemedicine adoption within the 24871 ZIP Code is likely limited due to factors like internet access and physician familiarity with the technology. However, its potential to improve access to care is significant, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. Patients and caregivers alike often experience significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and grief. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for providing comprehensive support. The assessment must consider the presence of these resources within the community, the ease of access to mental health services, and the coordination between primary care physicians and mental health providers. The availability of these resources in Pageton and the surrounding area is likely limited, requiring patients to travel to access these services.

The Alzheimer's Score, in this context, is not a single number but a composite assessment based on the factors discussed. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of geriatric specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more robust and supportive healthcare system for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. A lower score highlights areas where improvements are needed.

Specific to Pageton, the Alzheimer's Score is likely to be moderate, potentially reflecting the challenges of rural healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio is a significant concern, and access to specialized care may be limited. Telemedicine adoption is likely in its early stages, and mental health resources may be scarce. However, the community may have strengths in terms of local support groups, community outreach programs, or a dedicated primary care physician.

To improve the Alzheimer's Score, several strategies can be implemented. Recruiting more physicians, particularly those with geriatric expertise, is paramount. Promoting telemedicine adoption through training and infrastructure development can enhance access to care. Strengthening partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential. Supporting community-based programs, such as caregiver support groups and memory cafes, can provide crucial emotional and social support.

The analysis of individual practices within the 24871 ZIP Code would require a more detailed investigation. This includes reviewing physician profiles, assessing practice websites, and conducting patient surveys. The goal is to identify practices that excel in Alzheimer's care and highlight their best practices. This information can then be used to inform other practices and improve the overall quality of care within the community.

The lack of readily available data for a specific ZIP Code like 24871 makes a precise, data-driven score difficult. The assessment must rely on publicly available information, anecdotal evidence, and expert opinions. This approach provides a general overview of the healthcare landscape and highlights key areas for improvement.

The Alzheimer's Score assessment is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare system, such as new physician arrivals, increased telemedicine adoption, and the development of new community resources. The goal is to continuously monitor and improve the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

The challenges of providing Alzheimer's care in rural areas like Pageton are significant. However, with careful planning, community collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement, the healthcare system can be strengthened to meet the needs of those affected by this devastating disease.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in the 24871 ZIP Code, including physician locations, telemedicine availability, and mental health resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of the healthcare ecosystem, aiding in identifying gaps in care and informing community planning efforts.