24935, Forest Hill, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24935, Forest Hill, West Virginia is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 24935 has some form of health insurance. 69.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.57 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 24935 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 57 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24935. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 162 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 90 health care providers accessible to residents in 24935, Forest Hill, West Virginia.

The analysis focuses on the availability of primary care and associated resources within the 24935 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Forest Hill, West Virginia, and assesses them through the lens of Alzheimer's care. This is done by evaluating factors crucial for managing this complex disease, including physician access, resource availability, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the area's capacity to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

The physician-to-patient ratio within 24935 is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can severely limit access to timely diagnosis, ongoing management, and specialist referrals, all essential for Alzheimer's care. Researching the exact ratio for primary care physicians within this specific ZIP code is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards can provide this information. If the ratio is unfavorable, it underscores the challenges residents face in accessing primary care, a critical first step in addressing memory concerns.

Beyond the raw numbers, the type of primary care practices present is crucial. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or larger, more integrated healthcare systems? Larger systems often have the infrastructure to support specialized services, such as memory clinics or geriatric care units, which can be particularly beneficial for Alzheimer's patients. A practice's focus on geriatric care and its familiarity with Alzheimer's diagnostic tools and treatment protocols are essential.

Standout practices in Forest Hill would be those that actively address the needs of patients with cognitive impairments. These practices might offer comprehensive geriatric assessments, including cognitive testing, and have established referral pathways to neurologists, psychiatrists, and other specialists. They might also participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's disease, providing access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies. A practice’s commitment to patient education and support for caregivers is another indicator of excellence.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Forest Hill. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring services from their homes. This is particularly valuable for Alzheimer's patients, who may have difficulty traveling to appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering virtual visits and remote monitoring, are better equipped to provide accessible and convenient care.

The availability of mental health resources is another critical factor. Alzheimer's often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Access to psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors is essential for managing these symptoms and improving the overall quality of life for patients and their caregivers. The presence of local mental health clinics, support groups, and counseling services is a positive sign. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is also crucial for coordinated care.

Support services for caregivers are equally important. Alzheimer's places a significant burden on family members, who often become primary caregivers. The availability of respite care, support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance can make a significant difference in the caregiver's ability to provide care and maintain their own well-being. Practices that actively connect patients and caregivers with these resources are demonstrating a commitment to holistic care.

The presence of specialized memory care units or assisted living facilities with memory care programs within the 24935 ZIP code is also a key indicator. These facilities offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's, providing specialized care and activities designed to meet their unique needs. Proximity to these facilities can be a significant advantage for families.

When evaluating the "Alzheimer's Score" for Forest Hill, the integration of all these factors is necessary. A high score would reflect a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, primary care practices with expertise in geriatric care and Alzheimer's, robust telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, strong caregiver support services, and access to specialized memory care facilities. A lower score would indicate significant gaps in these areas, potentially leading to challenges in accessing timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and comprehensive support.

The 24935 ZIP code's Alzheimer's Score is not just a numerical value; it represents the collective capacity of the community to support individuals and families affected by this devastating disease. It reflects the quality of life for residents and the overall health of the community.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Forest Hill and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, mental health resources, and specialized facilities, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can visualize healthcare resources, allowing you to assess their proximity and accessibility. Explore the CartoChrome maps today to gain valuable insights into the healthcare infrastructure of Forest Hill and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.