25301, Charleston, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25301, Charleston, West Virginia is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.15 percent of the residents in 25301 has some form of health insurance. 55.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.77 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 25301 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 310 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25301. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 606 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,862 health care providers accessible to residents in 25301, Charleston, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Charleston, WV (ZIP Code 25301)

This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment for primary care physicians and resources within Charleston, West Virginia, specifically focusing on the 25301 ZIP code. It considers factors crucial for effective Alzheimer's care, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and integration with mental health services. The goal is to evaluate the local landscape and offer insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem for individuals and families navigating this challenging disease.

The foundation of any Alzheimer's care plan is access to a knowledgeable and readily available primary care physician (PCP). In Charleston, 25301, physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, general trends can be observed. The area, like many rural or semi-rural locations, may face challenges in physician density. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained resources for existing practices. The impact on Alzheimer's patients is significant; timely diagnosis and ongoing management are essential. Delays in access to care can exacerbate symptoms and hinder the implementation of early interventions, which are crucial for slowing disease progression.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of individual practices significantly influence the quality of care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care are particularly valuable. This includes physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or those who have a strong focus on the needs of older adults. Key indicators of this commitment include the availability of comprehensive geriatric assessments, cognitive screening tools, and a team-based approach to care that includes nurses, social workers, and care coordinators. Practices that proactively address the needs of patients with cognitive impairment, such as providing memory aids or connecting patients with support groups, score higher in this assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited access to specialists. In the context of Alzheimer's care, telemedicine can facilitate remote monitoring, medication management, and consultations with specialists, such as neurologists or geriatric psychiatrists. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring, and digital communication platforms, is a key factor in assessing the accessibility and quality of care within 25301. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies and integrated them seamlessly into their care delivery models are better positioned to serve the needs of Alzheimer's patients.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of effective Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, agitation, and psychosis. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Practices that have established strong referral networks with mental health providers, offer on-site mental health services, or provide access to support groups and educational resources for patients and families score higher in this area.

In evaluating the landscape of primary care within 25301, specific practices may stand out. This is based on factors such as the size of the practice, the experience of the physicians, the availability of specialized services, and the adoption of innovative technologies. While specific practice names are not mentioned, a thorough assessment would identify those practices that have demonstrated a commitment to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. This might include practices that have earned recognition for their quality of care, those that participate in clinical trials, or those that have implemented innovative programs to support patients and families.

The availability of resources beyond the primary care setting also plays a significant role. This includes access to diagnostic imaging services, such as MRI and CT scans, as well as access to specialized care, such as neurology and geriatric medicine. The availability of support services, such as home health care, adult day care, and respite care, is also crucial for supporting patients and caregivers. The presence of community organizations that offer educational programs, support groups, and other resources for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families is another important factor.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for primary care in 25301 is influenced by the interplay of all these factors. Areas with high physician-to-patient ratios, limited telemedicine adoption, and poor integration with mental health services would likely receive a lower score. Conversely, areas with a strong network of primary care physicians, a commitment to geriatric care, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources would likely receive a higher score. The goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the local landscape, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses, and to inform efforts to improve the quality of Alzheimer's care in Charleston.

In conclusion, the quality of Alzheimer's care in Charleston, WV (25301) depends on a complex interplay of factors. Physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration are all critical. This assessment provides a framework for understanding the local landscape and identifying areas for improvement. For a visual representation of the data, including physician locations, resource availability, and demographic information, explore the power of location intelligence with CartoChrome maps.