24977, Smoot, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24977, Smoot, West Virginia is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.08 percent of the residents in 24977 has some form of health insurance. 43.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.90 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 24977 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24977. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 129 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 496 health care providers accessible to residents in 24977, Smoot, West Virginia.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 24977 & Primary Care in Smoot**

The assessment of Alzheimer's care within ZIP code 24977, encompassing the area around Smoot, West Virginia, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized geriatric care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Alzheimer's Score' reflecting the accessibility and quality of care for individuals facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease and their families.

The foundation of any Alzheimer's care system is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Smoot, the proximity to PCPs is a crucial factor. A limited number of PCPs, especially in a rural area, can create significant barriers to timely diagnosis and ongoing management. Patients may face long wait times for appointments, hindering the early detection of cognitive decline, which is vital for effective intervention. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing care. This can lead to burnout among existing physicians, potentially impacting the quality of care they can provide.

Standout practices, those clinics or healthcare providers demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care, significantly influence the Alzheimer's Score. These practices often have specialized training in geriatric medicine, allowing them to recognize and address the unique needs of older adults. They may also offer memory clinics, cognitive assessments, and support groups for patients and caregivers. The presence of such practices in or near Smoot is a positive indicator, providing a higher level of specialized care. The absence, however, necessitates patients traveling to access these services, increasing the burden on both the patient and their families.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel. This is especially beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. The ability to receive cognitive assessments, medication management, and therapy sessions via telemedicine significantly improves access to care. The degree to which practices in 24977 embrace telemedicine is a key component of the Alzheimer's Score. Practices that have not adopted telemedicine are likely to score lower.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical element. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms. The coordination between primary care physicians, neurologists, and mental health providers is crucial for comprehensive care. The presence of support groups and educational resources for caregivers also contributes to a more favorable Alzheimer's Score.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for 24977 and Smoot is likely to be impacted by a few key factors. The rural nature of the area presents challenges to access to care. The physician-to-patient ratio is likely to be a significant factor. The presence of specialized geriatric practices and the adoption of telemedicine will be very important. The integration of mental health resources, including access to psychiatrists and therapists, will be a key indicator of the quality of care.

To accurately assess the Alzheimer's Score, a detailed investigation into the specific healthcare providers in the area is required. This includes researching the number of PCPs, the presence of geriatric specialists, the availability of telemedicine services, and the integration of mental health resources. This research should also include an assessment of the availability of support groups and educational resources for caregivers.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a static measure. It can change based on the efforts of healthcare providers to improve care. Practices that invest in training, adopt new technologies, and collaborate with other providers can improve their score. The involvement of community organizations and local government in supporting Alzheimer's care can also have a positive impact.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for 24977 and Smoot is likely to be moderate. The rural setting presents challenges to access to care, but the presence of dedicated providers and the adoption of telemedicine can improve the score. The integration of mental health resources is a critical component for comprehensive care. The ongoing efforts of healthcare providers and community organizations to improve care will determine the future of the Alzheimer's Score.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in 24977 and Smoot, including the location of physicians, the availability of resources, and the demographics of the population, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement.