25164, Procious, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25164, Procious, West Virginia is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.99 percent of the residents in 25164 has some form of health insurance. 58.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.75 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 25164 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 260 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25164. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 227 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12 health care providers accessible to residents in 25164, Procious, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25164 & Procious, WV

Analyzing healthcare access and resources within ZIP Code 25164, encompassing the community of Procious, West Virginia, requires a nuanced approach. A comprehensive “Alzheimer’s Score” assessment, focusing on factors crucial for supporting individuals and families navigating this challenging disease, necessitates examining physician availability, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), mental health resources, telemedicine adoption, and overall community support.

The physician-to-patient ratio within 25164 presents a significant hurdle. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages, and this likely impacts the availability of PCPs, who are often the first point of contact for cognitive concerns. A low physician-to-patient ratio translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and access to early intervention strategies crucial for Alzheimer's management. Without readily available PCPs, individuals may experience difficulty in receiving timely screenings, referrals to specialists (such as neurologists or geriatricians), and ongoing care coordination. The lack of specialists in the immediate area likely necessitates travel, adding another layer of complexity for patients and caregivers.

Primary care availability in Procious is a critical element. The presence of a well-established primary care practice with a demonstrated commitment to geriatric care is vital. Such a practice would ideally employ physicians knowledgeable about Alzheimer's disease and its complexities. They should have experience in screening for cognitive impairment, discussing diagnosis, and providing initial management recommendations. The practice should also foster a strong referral network to specialists, including neurologists, psychiatrists, and neuropsychologists. The absence of such a practice, or a practice with limited resources, significantly impacts the “Alzheimer’s Score,” potentially leading to delayed diagnosis and inadequate care.

Standout practices, if any exist within or near 25164, would be those demonstrating a proactive approach to Alzheimer's care. This includes actively screening patients for cognitive decline, utilizing validated screening tools, and providing patient education. These practices would also offer support services for caregivers, such as support groups, educational materials, and access to community resources. A practice excelling in this area would likely have a dedicated care coordinator to assist patients and families in navigating the healthcare system, connecting them with necessary services, and ensuring continuity of care.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists, receive remote monitoring, and participate in online support groups can significantly improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring capabilities, would receive a higher score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a crucial prerequisite for effective telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are essential for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors specializing in geriatric mental health is vital. The presence of these resources, including readily accessible mental health professionals and support groups, would contribute positively to the “Alzheimer’s Score.” The availability of respite care services, which provide temporary relief for caregivers, is also crucial for preventing caregiver burnout and ensuring the long-term well-being of both patients and their families.

Community support networks significantly influence the “Alzheimer’s Score.” The presence of local organizations dedicated to Alzheimer's support, such as the Alzheimer's Association or similar groups, provides invaluable resources. These organizations offer educational programs, support groups, and advocacy efforts. They also connect families with local resources, such as home healthcare agencies, adult day care centers, and legal and financial planning services. The availability and accessibility of these community resources are crucial for supporting individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

Specific data regarding the availability of these resources within 25164 is essential for a precise “Alzheimer’s Score” assessment. This data would include the number of PCPs, neurologists, psychiatrists, and other relevant healthcare providers in the area. Information on the presence of telemedicine capabilities, the availability of mental health services, and the existence of local support organizations would also be critical. Furthermore, data on the demographics of the population, including the age distribution and prevalence of chronic diseases, would provide context for the assessment.

Without access to specific data, a definitive “Alzheimer’s Score” cannot be assigned. However, based on the general challenges faced by rural communities, it is reasonable to assume that the “Alzheimer’s Score” for 25164 is likely to be lower than in more urban areas. The primary challenges are likely related to physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and the potential lack of readily available mental health and community support resources.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 25164 and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, a geospatial analysis is highly recommended. This would involve mapping the locations of healthcare providers, support services, and other relevant resources within the ZIP code. This would reveal areas with limited access to care and highlight potential gaps in services.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 25164, including the distribution of healthcare providers, the availability of support services, and the demographics of the population, consider utilizing the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed visual representation of the healthcare resources available in the area.