24974, Secondcreek, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24974, Secondcreek, West Virginia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.29 percent of the residents in 24974 has some form of health insurance. 53.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.05 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 24974 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 110 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24974. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 43 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 571 health care providers accessible to residents in 24974, Secondcreek, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Secondcreek, WV (ZIP Code 24974)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and resources for Alzheimer's patients in Secondcreek, West Virginia (ZIP code 24974) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," evaluates the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, mental health support, and technological integration, all critical for providing adequate care for individuals and families navigating the challenges of this disease. The analysis also focuses on the Secondcreek community, as well as the broader area of ZIP code 24974, to provide a comprehensive overview.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care rests on strong primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 24974, and specifically in the Secondcreek area, is a crucial indicator. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and local hospital systems, like Greenbrier Valley Medical Center, must be thoroughly examined. This data will reveal the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population they serve. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care providers, will negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score. Delays in diagnosis, medication management, and the coordination of care are likely consequences of such a shortage.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices in Secondcreek is paramount. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they have experience with geriatric care, including cognitive assessments? Are they equipped to manage the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients, including medication reconciliation and the coordination of care with specialists? The Alzheimer's Score will consider these factors, drawing on publicly available information and potentially incorporating patient testimonials if obtainable. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another vital aspect. Practices utilizing EHRs can facilitate better communication between providers, improve medication management, and provide patients with access to their health information.

Specialist availability is another critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. Neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and the management of behavioral symptoms associated with Alzheimer's. The presence and accessibility of these specialists within a reasonable travel distance from Secondcreek significantly impacts the score. The analysis will assess the availability of these specialists, considering both the physical proximity and the ability to schedule timely appointments. A lack of specialist availability will severely hinder the ability of patients to receive comprehensive care.

Mental health resources are also vital for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. The disease often leads to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups within the Secondcreek area will be evaluated. Does the area have access to mental health facilities? Are there support groups for caregivers? The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the availability and accessibility of these resources. The presence of these services is critical for managing the emotional and psychological burdens associated with Alzheimer's.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for delivering healthcare, especially in rural areas like Secondcreek. The Alzheimer's Score will evaluate the adoption of telemedicine by local primary care practices and specialists. Telemedicine can provide access to specialists who may not be physically located in the area, reduce travel burdens, and improve access to mental health services. Practices that embrace telemedicine will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to innovation and patient convenience.

The analysis will also consider the availability of other supportive services, such as home healthcare agencies, adult day care centers, and respite care programs. These services provide crucial support for both patients and their caregivers, allowing individuals with Alzheimer's to remain in their homes longer and reducing the risk of caregiver burnout. The presence and accessibility of these services will positively influence the Alzheimer's Score.

The Alzheimer's Score will be presented as a composite metric, reflecting the overall healthcare landscape for Alzheimer's patients in Secondcreek and the surrounding ZIP code. The score will be based on the factors discussed above, with each factor weighted according to its importance. The score will provide a clear indication of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this area, highlighting areas where improvements are needed.

The analysis will also identify standout practices or providers that are excelling in the care of Alzheimer's patients. These practices may be recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care, their use of technology, or their integration of mental health services. This recognition can serve as a model for other providers in the area, encouraging them to adopt best practices and improve the quality of care.

The Alzheimer's Score will be updated regularly, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape. This ongoing monitoring will ensure that the score remains a relevant and accurate assessment of the healthcare resources available to Alzheimer's patients in Secondcreek and the surrounding area.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide valuable information to patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. It will help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare and will highlight areas where improvements are needed to ensure that all individuals with Alzheimer's in Secondcreek receive the best possible care. The analysis will also provide a framework for policymakers and healthcare organizations to develop strategies for improving healthcare access and quality in rural areas.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Secondcreek, including the location of healthcare providers, specialist availability, and other relevant data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual tool for understanding healthcare access and identifying areas where resources are needed most.