24873, Paynesville, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24873, Paynesville, West Virginia is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24873 has some form of health insurance. 59.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.96 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 24873 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 154 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24873. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 189 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 61 health care providers accessible to residents in 24873, Paynesville, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Paynesville, WV (ZIP Code 24873)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Paynesville, West Virginia (ZIP code 24873) requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing its capacity to address the needs of individuals facing Alzheimer's disease. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians, a crucial entry point for early detection and management, and the overall healthcare infrastructure's readiness to support patients and their families. We will evaluate the "Alzheimer's Score" based on factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized care, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with primary care physicians (PCPs). In Paynesville, determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio is challenging without access to real-time, comprehensive datasets. However, we can infer certain aspects based on publicly available information and demographic data. The population density of Paynesville and the surrounding McDowell County is relatively low, which often translates to a lower concentration of healthcare providers. This situation can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially limit access to timely diagnoses and treatment.

The presence of standout primary care practices within the area is critical. While a definitive ranking isn't possible without detailed practice-level data, we can speculate. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, including memory screenings and cognitive assessments, would likely score higher. The availability of nurses and medical assistants trained in geriatric care is another key indicator. Furthermore, practices that actively collaborate with specialists, such as neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists, are better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care in rural areas like Paynesville. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive medication management, and participate in support groups. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly for cognitive assessments and follow-up appointments, would contribute positively to the Alzheimer's Score. The availability of reliable internet connectivity within the community is a crucial factor in determining the feasibility and effectiveness of telemedicine services.

Mental health resources play a vital role in managing Alzheimer's disease. The emotional and psychological impact on both patients and caregivers is substantial. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups within the community is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house providers or established referral networks, will enhance their Alzheimer's Score. The presence of caregiver support groups, offering education, coping strategies, and a sense of community, is particularly valuable.

The lack of specialized geriatric care, such as geriatricians and neurologists, can severely impact the Alzheimer's Score. If residents of Paynesville must travel significant distances to access these specialists, it creates a significant barrier to care. The presence of skilled nursing facilities or assisted living communities with specialized memory care units is another factor to consider. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's, offering specialized care and activities designed to enhance their quality of life.

Another critical element is the degree to which the healthcare system is integrated. Does the local hospital have a dedicated memory care unit? Are there established referral pathways between PCPs, specialists, and social service agencies? A well-integrated system ensures that patients receive coordinated care, reducing the likelihood of fragmented treatment and improving overall outcomes. Collaboration between healthcare providers, social workers, and community organizations is essential.

The Alzheimer's Score for Paynesville, WV (24873) would likely be moderate, potentially lower than more urban areas. The challenges presented by a rural setting, including limited physician availability, geographical barriers, and potential infrastructure limitations, would likely impact the score negatively. However, the score could be improved by the presence of standout primary care practices that prioritize geriatric care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the existence of strong community support networks.

Improving the Alzheimer's Score in Paynesville requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes efforts to attract and retain healthcare professionals, expand telemedicine capabilities, enhance mental health services, and foster collaboration among healthcare providers and community organizations. Investing in caregiver support programs and promoting public awareness of Alzheimer's disease are also critical steps.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Paynesville and other areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and demographic data, allowing for a more nuanced assessment of healthcare access and resource availability.