24986, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 24986, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia is 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.17 percent of the residents in 24986 has some form of health insurance. 47.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.78 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 24986 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,067 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 24986. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,061 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 557 health care providers accessible to residents in 24986, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: White Sulphur Springs, WV (ZIP Code 24986)

The assessment of healthcare resources, particularly those relevant to Alzheimer's disease, within White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia (ZIP Code 24986) presents a complex challenge. This analysis aims to provide an "Alzheimers Score" ranking by examining the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized geriatric care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape and its capacity to address the needs of individuals affected by or at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

The foundation of any effective Alzheimer's care system lies in the strength of its primary care network. In White Sulphur Springs, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The density of primary care providers directly impacts access to initial diagnoses, ongoing monitoring, and the coordination of care. A low density of providers can lead to delayed diagnoses, limited access to specialists, and increased patient burden. The "Alzheimers Score" will reflect the accessibility of these crucial entry points into the healthcare system. The score will be influenced by the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, factoring in travel time and patient capacity.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial metric. A high ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians serving a large population, can strain resources and negatively impact patient care. The "Alzheimers Score" will incorporate an analysis of the physician-to-patient ratio within 24986, comparing it to regional and national averages. A favorable ratio, where physicians have a manageable patient load, will contribute positively to the score. Conversely, a high ratio will detract from the overall assessment, reflecting potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care.

Identifying standout practices within White Sulphur Springs is vital. These practices may have specialized geriatric expertise, offer comprehensive memory care programs, or demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. The "Alzheimers Score" will evaluate practices based on their services, including the presence of certified geriatricians, memory clinics, and support groups. Practices that actively participate in Alzheimer's research or offer innovative treatment approaches will also be recognized. The presence of these standout practices will significantly enhance the overall score, signifying a higher level of care available within the community.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, particularly for individuals in rural areas like White Sulphur Springs. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and support group participation, reducing the need for travel and enhancing convenience. The "Alzheimers Score" will assess the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms. Practices that offer telehealth services, particularly for cognitive assessments and follow-up appointments, will receive a higher score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community will also be considered, as it is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, and individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers require access to mental health support. The "Alzheimers Score" will evaluate the availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the White Sulphur Springs area. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and access to psychiatric medication management will be assessed. A robust network of mental health resources will contribute positively to the score, reflecting the community's ability to address the multifaceted needs of individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease.

The overall "Alzheimers Score" for White Sulphur Springs, WV (ZIP Code 24986) will be a composite assessment, weighting each of these factors. The final score will reflect the community's capacity to provide comprehensive, accessible, and high-quality care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families. The score will be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape and the ongoing efforts to improve Alzheimer's care within the community.

The analysis will consider the presence of specialized geriatric care, including memory clinics and geriatricians. It will assess the availability of cognitive testing and diagnostic services, crucial for early detection and intervention. The score will also consider the availability of resources for caregivers, such as respite care and support groups, which are essential for managing the challenges of Alzheimer's.

The evaluation will also consider the presence of any community outreach programs or educational initiatives related to Alzheimer's disease. These programs can raise awareness, reduce stigma, and empower individuals and families to seek help. The "Alzheimers Score" will recognize communities that actively promote education and awareness about Alzheimer's disease.

The availability of transportation services is also a factor. Individuals with Alzheimer's may experience difficulty with driving, and access to reliable transportation is crucial for attending appointments and accessing support services. The "Alzheimers Score" will consider the availability of transportation options, such as public transit, ride-sharing services, and volunteer driver programs.

The final "Alzheimers Score" will be a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to Alzheimer's disease. It can be used to identify areas for improvement, inform healthcare planning, and empower individuals and families to make informed decisions about their care.

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in White Sulphur Springs and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a dynamic and interactive way to visualize healthcare resources and gain a deeper understanding of the community's capacity to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease.