25639, Peach Creek, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25639, Peach Creek, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25639 has some form of health insurance. 86.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.47 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 25639 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 88 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25639. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 198 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 553 health care providers accessible to residents in 25639, Peach Creek, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Peach Creek, WV (ZIP Code 25639)

Analyzing the Alzheimer's care landscape within ZIP code 25639, encompassing Peach Creek, West Virginia, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), their capacity to manage patients with cognitive decline, and the broader support systems in place. This analysis will culminate in an Alzheimer's Score, reflecting the overall preparedness of the community to address the needs of individuals and families affected by this devastating disease.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care begins with accessible primary care. In Peach Creek, determining the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the US Census Bureau can provide estimates. However, these numbers alone are insufficient. We need to consider the age distribution of the population within 25639, as older demographics are at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's. A high concentration of elderly residents, coupled with a limited number of PCPs, could indicate a strained healthcare system.

The quality of primary care is equally important. Do the PCPs in Peach Creek possess specific training or experience in geriatric medicine or cognitive assessment? Are they equipped to conduct initial cognitive screenings, such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)? These screenings are crucial for early detection, allowing for timely interventions and management strategies. Furthermore, a PCP's willingness to collaborate with specialists, such as neurologists or geriatric psychiatrists, is essential for comprehensive care.

Standout practices within the ZIP code, if any, could significantly improve the Alzheimer's Score. These practices might differentiate themselves through specialized programs, such as memory clinics, support groups for caregivers, or educational workshops for patients and families. They may also have established protocols for managing complex cases, including medication management, behavioral interventions, and end-of-life care planning. Identifying these standout practices would highlight best practices and potentially offer models for other providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. For individuals with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas, telemedicine can provide access to specialists and ongoing care. The availability of telehealth consultations with neurologists, psychiatrists, and other relevant healthcare professionals can significantly improve the quality of care. This is especially relevant in rural communities like Peach Creek, where access to specialized care can be a challenge.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and improving the overall well-being of patients and their caregivers. Access to these resources can mitigate the burden on both patients and families.

The availability of support groups and community resources also contributes to the Alzheimer's Score. Caregivers often experience significant stress and burnout. Support groups provide a safe space for them to share their experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies. Community resources, such as adult day care centers and respite care services, can provide temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to take breaks and maintain their own health.

The Alzheimer's Score for Peach Creek, WV (25639) is a complex calculation. It should weigh the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of geriatric specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the existence of community support systems. A high score would indicate a well-prepared community with readily accessible and comprehensive care options. A low score would signal a need for improvement in multiple areas, including physician recruitment, training, and the expansion of support services.

The score should also consider the social determinants of health. Factors like socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and the availability of affordable housing can significantly impact the quality of care and the ability of individuals to manage their disease. Addressing these factors is essential for creating a truly equitable and effective healthcare system.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the arrival of new physicians, the implementation of telemedicine programs, or the establishment of new support services. This ongoing monitoring is crucial for ensuring that the community remains prepared to address the growing needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

In conclusion, assessing the Alzheimer's care landscape in Peach Creek requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including physician availability, training, the adoption of technology, and the availability of support resources. A robust Alzheimer's Score should reflect these elements, providing a clear picture of the community's preparedness to address the challenges of this devastating disease.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution within ZIP code 25639 and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their detailed mapping tools can help you visualize physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, providing valuable insights into the local healthcare ecosystem.