25817, Bolt, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25817, Bolt, West Virginia is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 25817 has some form of health insurance. 79.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.03 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 25817 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 19 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25817. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 199 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,623 health care providers accessible to residents in 25817, Bolt, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Bolt, WV (ZIP Code 25817)

This analysis aims to assess the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 25817, encompassing the community of Bolt, West Virginia. The assessment focuses on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical factors in managing Alzheimer's and supporting affected individuals and their families. This analysis will culminate in a call to action encouraging the utilization of CartoChrome maps for a more comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests on the shoulders of primary care physicians. In Bolt, the accessibility of primary care is paramount. The population density within the ZIP code, combined with the geographical challenges inherent in the region, likely presents a significant hurdle to care access. Rural areas often grapple with a scarcity of healthcare professionals, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased travel distances for residents. Determining the precise number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code is crucial.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians serving a larger population, can strain the healthcare system. This strain translates to reduced time spent with each patient, potentially hindering the thoroughness of examinations, diagnosis, and ongoing care management. The ratio also affects the ability of physicians to provide adequate support and education to families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) would be essential to accurately determine this ratio for ZIP code 25817.

Identifying standout primary care practices within the area is critical. These practices may exhibit best practices in Alzheimer's care, such as specialized training for physicians and staff in dementia management, comprehensive cognitive assessments, and strong referral networks to specialists like neurologists and geriatricians. These practices might also proactively offer educational programs for patients and caregivers, covering topics like disease progression, medication management, and coping strategies. Researching online reviews, contacting local community organizations, and directly contacting practices would be necessary to identify these exemplary providers.

Telemedicine adoption represents another crucial aspect of care accessibility, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive medication management, and participate in support groups. The availability of telemedicine services within the ZIP code, and specifically within primary care practices, would be a significant advantage. Factors like internet connectivity in the area and the willingness of physicians to embrace telemedicine technology will influence its effectiveness. Investigating the presence of telehealth services and the technology used is essential.

The connection between Alzheimer's disease and mental health is undeniable. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore essential. Evaluating the number of mental health providers within the ZIP code, their areas of specialization, and their willingness to collaborate with primary care physicians is vital. Access to support groups for both patients and caregivers is also crucial. These groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, offering emotional support, and learning coping mechanisms. Researching local mental health providers and support groups is vital.

The specific availability of memory care specialists, such as neurologists or geriatricians, within a reasonable distance of Bolt is another key factor. These specialists possess specialized knowledge and expertise in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. Access to their services is often essential for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing monitoring of disease progression. Determining the proximity of specialists and the ease with which patients can obtain referrals is crucial.

Furthermore, the presence of assisted living facilities and nursing homes equipped to provide specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's is a critical consideration. These facilities offer a safe and supportive environment for individuals who can no longer live independently. Assessing the number of such facilities within the ZIP code or nearby, their staffing levels, and their specific programs for Alzheimer's patients is essential.

The assessment of the overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Bolt, WV (ZIP code 25817) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves gathering data on physician availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of specialized care facilities. The quality of care provided by primary care physicians and the existence of support networks for patients and caregivers are equally important.

Given the rural nature of the area and the potential for limited resources, the score is likely to be negatively impacted by the challenges of accessing healthcare. However, the presence of dedicated primary care practices, telemedicine services, and robust support networks can significantly improve the overall score. The score would be a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare resources evolve.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bolt, WV, and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a comprehensive view of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points. By leveraging the power of CartoChrome maps, you can gain a clearer picture of the resources available, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about accessing healthcare services.