25140, Naoma, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25140, Naoma, West Virginia is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.03 percent of the residents in 25140 has some form of health insurance. 81.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.00 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 25140 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 181 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25140. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 298 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 47 health care providers accessible to residents in 25140, Naoma, West Virginia.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Naoma, WV (ZIP Code 25140)**

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care resources within the Naoma, West Virginia (ZIP code 25140) area, focusing on factors crucial for supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. This includes evaluating the local physician landscape, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), and their capacity to manage the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Alzheimer's Score' assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care lies in accessible and responsive primary care. In Naoma, a crucial first step is understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially less comprehensive care. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) and the U.S. Census Bureau is vital to determine the precise ratio for this specific area. Publicly available data on physician distribution, coupled with population estimates, will help paint a picture of accessibility. A low ratio necessitates further investigation into the capacity of existing practices to manage the demands of an aging population, especially those vulnerable to cognitive decline.

Within the Naoma area, identifying standout primary care practices is key. These practices are likely to be those that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive care for older adults. This includes not only treating acute and chronic medical conditions but also proactively addressing cognitive health concerns. Look for practices that offer memory screenings, early diagnosis support, and care coordination services. Practices that have a dedicated focus on geriatric care, with physicians specializing in geriatrics or those with a strong interest in this area, are particularly valuable. The presence of nurse practitioners or physician assistants who specialize in geriatric care can also enhance access to care and improve the overall quality of service.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients who experience mobility challenges or live in rural areas. It allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local primary care practices should be investigated. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more convenient and timely care, reducing the burden on both patients and caregivers. The availability of telehealth services that specifically cater to cognitive health, such as virtual memory clinics or support groups, will further enhance the score.

The availability of mental health resources is also a crucial component of the Alzheimer's Score. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential for managing these symptoms and supporting both patients and their caregivers. The analysis should assess the number of mental health providers available within the Naoma area, their specialization, and their willingness to work with Alzheimer's patients. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options is also critical.

Care coordination is another important factor. Effective care coordination ensures that patients receive seamless and integrated care across different healthcare providers and settings. This involves clear communication between PCPs, specialists, therapists, and other members of the care team. Practices that have implemented care coordination programs, such as care managers or navigators, can significantly improve the quality of care for Alzheimer's patients. The analysis should assess the availability of care coordination services within local practices and the level of collaboration among healthcare providers.

The Alzheimer's Score for Naoma, WV (ZIP code 25140) is not merely a numerical value. It is a reflection of the community's capacity to support individuals and families affected by this devastating disease. The score will be determined by a composite of the factors discussed above, weighted according to their relative importance. Higher scores will be assigned to areas with favorable physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health resources. Conversely, lower scores will indicate areas with limited access to care, a lack of specialized services, and challenges in care coordination.

The final score will provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Naoma. This information can be used by individuals, families, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to develop strategies to enhance the quality of care for Alzheimer's patients. The score can also serve as a benchmark for tracking progress over time and for comparing the healthcare resources in Naoma to those in other communities.

The analysis will include a review of the resources available to caregivers. Alzheimer's care places a tremendous burden on caregivers, and access to support services is essential for their well-being. The analysis will assess the availability of caregiver support groups, respite care, and educational resources. Practices that actively engage with caregivers and provide them with the support they need will receive higher scores.

The analysis should also consider the financial aspects of care. Alzheimer's disease can be expensive, and access to affordable care is crucial. The analysis will assess the acceptance of insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of care within the local area. Practices that offer affordable care options and provide assistance with navigating the financial aspects of care will receive higher scores.

In conclusion, this 'Alzheimer's Score' analysis aims to provide a comprehensive and nuanced assessment of the healthcare resources available in Naoma, WV, to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. The findings will inform efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and create a more supportive community for those living with this challenging condition.

**Take a closer look! For a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability in Naoma, WV (ZIP code 25140), visit CartoChrome maps.**