25286, Walton, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25286, Walton, West Virginia is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.76 percent of the residents in 25286 has some form of health insurance. 57.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.00 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 25286 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 264 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25286. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 295 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 37 health care providers accessible to residents in 25286, Walton, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25286 & Primary Care in Walton, WV

The task at hand is to analyze the landscape of healthcare, specifically concerning Alzheimer's care and primary care availability, within ZIP code 25286 and the broader context of Walton, West Virginia. This analysis will provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering various factors crucial for patients and their families navigating this challenging disease. The evaluation will encompass physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health resources, culminating in a call to action.

ZIP code 25286, encompassing the town of Walton and its surrounding areas, is a rural region. This geographic characteristic significantly influences healthcare accessibility. The population density is relatively low, which often translates to a limited number of healthcare providers. This scarcity directly impacts the physician-to-patient ratio, a critical indicator of access to care. A lower ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, presents a challenge for residents seeking timely diagnoses, ongoing management, and specialized care related to Alzheimer's disease.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the cornerstone of healthcare in any community, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like Alzheimer's. They are often the first point of contact, responsible for initial screenings, referrals to specialists, and the coordination of care. In Walton, the availability of PCPs is a primary concern. The "Alzheimer's Score" will be negatively impacted if the number of PCPs is insufficient to meet the needs of the local population, particularly the aging demographic, which is at higher risk.

Assessing the quality of care requires examining specific practices and their approaches to Alzheimer's management. Are there practices that specialize in geriatric care or have a strong focus on cognitive health? Do they offer comprehensive memory assessments, including cognitive testing and brain imaging referrals? The "Alzheimer's Score" will be elevated for practices demonstrating proactive strategies, such as early detection programs, support groups for patients and families, and collaborations with neurologists and geriatricians.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by local practices is a key factor in the "Alzheimer's Score" calculation. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for extensive travel, which can be especially difficult for individuals with cognitive impairments. Practices embracing telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, and providing remote monitoring capabilities will receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The disease not only affects cognitive function but also often leads to behavioral changes, depression, and anxiety in both patients and their caregivers. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups within the community is crucial. The "Alzheimer's Score" will be significantly higher if Walton has access to these resources, ensuring that patients and their families receive the comprehensive support they need to cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of the disease.

Furthermore, collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health providers is essential. A coordinated approach to care, where information is shared seamlessly, and patients receive integrated support, is a hallmark of quality Alzheimer's care. The "Alzheimer's Score" will reflect the degree to which local practices and providers collaborate to create a cohesive and patient-centered care model.

Standout practices within ZIP code 25286 will be those that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in Alzheimer's care. This includes practices that actively participate in research, implement evidence-based treatment strategies, and prioritize patient and caregiver education. These practices may offer specialized memory clinics, employ trained dementia care specialists, and provide resources to help families navigate the complexities of the disease. Identifying these practices is crucial for residents seeking the highest quality of care.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for ZIP code 25286 and the primary care availability in Walton, West Virginia, is likely to be influenced by the constraints of a rural environment. The limited number of healthcare providers, the potential for long travel distances, and the scarcity of specialized services may present challenges. However, the score can be improved by focusing on strategies that enhance access to care, such as telemedicine, and by promoting collaboration among healthcare providers.

The analysis will also consider the presence of community resources, such as support groups, respite care services, and adult day care programs. These resources provide invaluable support to both patients and their families, helping them to cope with the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. The "Alzheimer's Score" will be positively impacted by the availability and accessibility of these community-based resources.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimer's Score" for ZIP code 25286 and Walton, West Virginia, will be a nuanced assessment, reflecting the complex interplay of factors that influence healthcare access and quality. While the rural setting may present challenges, the community's commitment to improving care, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources will be critical determinants of the final score.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 25286, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and the geographic distribution of the population, consider utilizing the powerful mapping tools provided by CartoChrome. Their interactive maps can provide valuable insights and facilitate informed decision-making for individuals and families seeking Alzheimer's care in Walton and the surrounding areas.