25183, Sharples, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25183, Sharples, West Virginia is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25183 has some form of health insurance. 25.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 25183 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 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25183. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 20 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 111 health care providers accessible to residents in 25183, Sharples, West Virginia.

The analysis focuses on the availability of resources and the potential quality of care for Alzheimer's patients in Sharples, West Virginia, specifically examining primary care physicians within the 25183 ZIP code. This evaluation considers factors crucial for managing this complex disease, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas where improvements are needed to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

Sharples, a small community nestled in the Appalachian region, faces unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, coupled with potential economic limitations, can significantly impact the availability of specialized medical services and the resources needed to manage chronic conditions like Alzheimer's.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. In a rural setting, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population can be significantly higher than in urban areas. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and difficulty in establishing the consistent care needed for Alzheimer's patients. Assessing the exact physician-to-patient ratio within the 25183 ZIP code is crucial. Publicly available data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can be used to determine this ratio. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) would indicate a potential challenge in accessing timely and appropriate care.

Identifying standout practices within the 25183 ZIP code requires a deeper dive into the specific services offered by each primary care provider. Are any practices designated as patient-centered medical homes? Do they have experience treating patients with dementia? Do they have staff trained in the specific needs of Alzheimer's patients, such as cognitive assessments and medication management? Researching the practices' websites, reading patient reviews, and contacting the practices directly to inquire about their Alzheimer's care protocols is essential. Practices with a dedicated focus on geriatric care or those affiliated with larger healthcare systems that offer specialized dementia programs would be considered standout practices.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. This is especially valuable for Alzheimer's patients who may have mobility issues or difficulty traveling. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within primary care practices in the 25183 ZIP code involves determining whether they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, or access to online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more accessible and convenient care, which is crucial for managing Alzheimer's.

Mental health resources are essential for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. The disease often leads to behavioral changes, mood swings, and anxiety. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is critical for managing these symptoms and providing emotional support. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources in Sharples involves identifying local mental health clinics, therapists, and support groups. Are there geriatric psychiatrists or neuropsychologists available? Are support groups specifically for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers accessible? The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

The quality of care for Alzheimer's patients is also dependent on the coordination of care. Do primary care physicians in the 25183 ZIP code collaborate with specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians? Do they have established referral pathways and communication protocols? A well-coordinated care approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive and integrated care. This can be assessed by researching the practices' affiliations with hospitals, specialist networks, and care management programs.

Another critical aspect is the availability of educational resources for patients and caregivers. Alzheimer's is a complex disease, and patients and their families need information about the disease, its progression, and available treatment options. Do primary care practices offer educational materials, workshops, or support groups? Are they connected to the Alzheimer's Association or other organizations that provide educational resources? Practices that prioritize patient and caregiver education can empower individuals to manage the disease effectively.

Furthermore, the availability of social services and community support is essential. Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers often need assistance with daily living activities, such as transportation, home care, and financial planning. Assessing the availability of these services involves identifying local agencies that provide these services, such as the Area Agency on Aging or the local health department. Primary care practices that collaborate with these agencies can connect patients and caregivers with the resources they need.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for primary care in the 25183 ZIP code would be a composite of all these factors. It would reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the coordination of care, the availability of educational resources, and the availability of social services. The score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape and highlight areas where improvements are needed.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sharples and the surrounding areas, and to explore the distribution of resources and access to care, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent data, such as physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic information, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment and facilitating data-driven decision-making.