25646, Stollings, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25646, Stollings, West Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.06 percent of the residents in 25646 has some form of health insurance. 71.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.08 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 25646 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 372 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25646. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 164 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 570 health care providers accessible to residents in 25646, Stollings, West Virginia.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant public health challenge, particularly in areas with aging populations and limited access to healthcare. This analysis assesses the availability of resources and the potential for effective Alzheimer's care within ZIP code 25646, focusing on the doctors practicing there and the primary care landscape of Stollings, West Virginia. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the current situation and highlight areas for improvement.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. In a rural area like Stollings, the number of primary care physicians relative to the population is likely a significant factor. A low ratio suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments, managing chronic conditions, and receiving preventative care, all of which are crucial for early detection and management of Alzheimer's. Without specific data on the physician-to-patient ratio within 25646, it is difficult to provide a definitive assessment. However, based on the general characteristics of rural areas, it is probable that the ratio is less favorable than in more urban settings.

The availability of primary care is the cornerstone of Alzheimer's care. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline. They can conduct initial screenings, refer patients to specialists like neurologists or geriatricians, and provide ongoing management of the disease and its associated symptoms. The primary care landscape in Stollings, therefore, directly impacts the quality of Alzheimer's care available to residents.

Standout practices, if any, within ZIP code 25646 would likely distinguish themselves through a commitment to comprehensive geriatric care. This might include specialized training for physicians and staff in dementia care, the use of standardized cognitive assessment tools, and the establishment of care coordination programs. These programs can help connect patients and their families with essential resources, such as support groups, home healthcare services, and respite care. The absence of such features would suggest an area for improvement.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialized expertise. For Alzheimer's patients, telemedicine can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to caregivers. The extent of telemedicine adoption among doctors in 25646 is a crucial factor in assessing the overall quality of care.

Mental health resources are intricately linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. 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 their caregivers. The availability of these resources in Stollings is a critical component of a comprehensive Alzheimer's care system.

Specifics about individual practices within 25646 are difficult to obtain without a detailed investigation. However, it is essential to consider factors such as the size of the practice, the experience of the physicians, the availability of specialized services, and the practice's commitment to patient education and support. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, partner with local Alzheimer's associations, or offer caregiver support groups are likely to be more effective in providing comprehensive care.

The quality of care also depends on the availability of diagnostic tools. Access to imaging services, such as MRI and PET scans, is crucial for confirming a diagnosis of Alzheimer's and ruling out other potential causes of cognitive decline. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance of Stollings is a factor.

The support system for caregivers is another crucial aspect of Alzheimer's care. Caregivers often experience significant stress and burden, and they need access to resources such as respite care, support groups, and educational programs. The availability of these resources in Stollings directly impacts the ability of caregivers to provide effective and sustainable care.

The overall assessment of Alzheimer's care in 25646 and Stollings requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of specialized services. The absence of these elements would suggest a need for improvements.

The need for early detection and intervention is paramount. Early diagnosis allows for the initiation of treatments that can slow the progression of the disease and provides patients and their families with time to plan for the future. The availability of screening tools and the ability of primary care physicians to recognize the early signs of Alzheimer's are therefore of critical importance.

The role of community organizations is also significant. Local Alzheimer's associations, senior centers, and other community groups can provide valuable resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and recreational activities. These resources can help patients and caregivers navigate the challenges of the disease and improve their overall well-being.

The assessment of Alzheimer's care in 25646 and Stollings is a dynamic process. Healthcare systems are constantly evolving, and new treatments and technologies are emerging. It is important to stay informed about the latest developments and to advocate for improvements in the quality of care.

To gain a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape in 25646 and to visualize the distribution of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points. They can help you identify areas with limited access to care and highlight potential opportunities for improvement.