25564, Sod, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25564, Sod, West Virginia is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.10 percent of the residents in 25564 has some form of health insurance. 24.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.60 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 25564 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 340 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25564. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 235 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,371 health care providers accessible to residents in 25564, Sod, West Virginia.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 25564 and Primary Care Availability in Sod, West Virginia**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care resources within ZIP code 25564, encompassing the town of Sod, West Virginia, with a specific focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in supporting individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Sod, 25564, is a critical starting point. Rural areas often face shortages, potentially hindering timely access to diagnosis and ongoing care. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments would be essential to determine the precise ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would necessitate a more intensive evaluation of the existing healthcare infrastructure. It could suggest longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for patients, and potential strain on the existing medical professionals.

The quality of primary care significantly impacts the care of Alzheimer's patients. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. They are responsible for initial assessments, referrals to specialists (neurologists, geriatricians), and ongoing management of co-morbid conditions. Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. These practices may demonstrate excellence in areas such as early detection, patient education, and care coordination. Reviewing online patient testimonials, examining practice accreditations (e.g., Patient-Centered Medical Home), and assessing the availability of specialized services (e.g., memory clinics) would provide valuable insights. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to geriatric care and dementia management would receive higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas. It offers a means to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to specialists and support services. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and virtual support groups. The availability of telemedicine services within the primary care practices in 25564 would be a significant factor in the Alzheimer's Score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing both synchronous (real-time) and asynchronous (store-and-forward) options, would receive higher scores. This includes assessing the technology infrastructure (e.g., secure video platforms) and the training provided to both physicians and patients.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers frequently experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, counselors) within the community is paramount. Assessing the number of mental health providers, their specialization in geriatric care, and their acceptance of insurance plans would be crucial. Furthermore, the presence of support groups, caregiver education programs, and respite care services would significantly enhance the Alzheimer's Score. Collaboration between primary care practices and mental health providers is a key indicator of a well-integrated healthcare system.

Specific examples of practices within 25564 would require a more in-depth investigation. The analysis would need to identify the names and addresses of primary care providers. For each practice, the following questions would be asked: Does the practice have a dedicated geriatric care program? Does the practice offer memory screenings? Does the practice have a neurologist on staff or a referral system? Does the practice utilize telemedicine for patient consultations? Does the practice have a relationship with a mental health provider? Does the practice offer caregiver support?

The Alzheimer's Score would be a composite measure, reflecting the availability and quality of resources. Each factor (physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources) would be assigned a weighted score. The overall score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in 25564, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. A high score would indicate a robust system capable of supporting Alzheimer's patients and their families. A low score would signal the need for improvements, such as increasing the number of physicians, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and enhancing mental health services.

The assessment of primary care availability in Sod, 25564, must also consider the broader context of the community. Socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and limited access to transportation, can exacerbate healthcare disparities. Understanding these factors is essential for a complete evaluation. Public health initiatives, community partnerships, and government programs can play a crucial role in addressing these challenges.

The Alzheimer's Score analysis is not a static measure. It must be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. New practices may open, telemedicine technology may evolve, and community resources may expand. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the healthcare system in 25564 is effectively meeting the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. The Alzheimer's Score can be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members, guiding efforts to improve the quality of care and support.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Sod, 25564, and the surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can visually represent physician locations, telemedicine availability, mental health services, and other relevant data points. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize the healthcare landscape, aiding in the identification of gaps in care and informing strategic planning.