25818, Bradley, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25818, Bradley, West Virginia is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.29 percent of the residents in 25818 has some form of health insurance. 11.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.55 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 25818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 60 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 25818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 16 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,762 health care providers accessible to residents in 25818, Bradley, West Virginia.

Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 25818 & Bradley, WV

This analysis assesses the availability of resources and the potential quality of care for individuals in ZIP Code 25818 (which encompasses the town of Bradley, West Virginia) concerning Alzheimer's disease. The assessment will consider factors crucial for effective Alzheimer's management, including physician access, primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the healthcare landscape within the specified area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care rests on accessible and knowledgeable primary care physicians (PCPs). Bradley, a relatively small community, likely experiences challenges related to physician density. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate management of the disease. The specific ratio for Bradley, and ZIP Code 25818, needs investigation. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards can provide insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the area. Further, this data can be overlaid with population figures to calculate the ratio.

The availability of primary care extends beyond just the number of physicians. It also encompasses the types of services offered. Are PCPs equipped to handle the complexities of Alzheimer's, including cognitive assessments, medication management, and referrals to specialists? Are they familiar with the latest diagnostic criteria and treatment guidelines? The quality of care is paramount. This is often reflected in the training and experience of the physicians, as well as their participation in continuing medical education (CME) programs focused on dementia. Checking online reviews and patient testimonials can provide anecdotal evidence of the quality of care.

Standout practices within the area, if any, deserve special recognition. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care, such as offering memory clinics, employing specialized staff (e.g., geriatric nurses or social workers), or participating in clinical trials, should be highlighted. These practices often serve as a model for other providers and can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Identifying these practices requires a deep dive into the local healthcare network, including contacting local hospitals, clinics, and physician groups.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to address the challenges of geographic isolation and limited physician access, particularly in rural areas like Bradley. The adoption of telemedicine by local PCPs is a key factor. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring, improving access to care for patients and reducing the burden on caregivers. The availability of reliable internet connectivity is essential for telemedicine to function effectively. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption requires research into the technological infrastructure of local healthcare providers and the availability of broadband internet in the area.

Mental health resources are crucial for supporting both individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Alzheimer's often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms and improving quality of life. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and respite care for caregivers is also critical. Assessing the availability of mental health resources involves identifying local mental health clinics, support groups, and other community-based programs.

The presence of specialized geriatric care within the area is another important factor. Geriatricians, physicians with specialized training in the care of older adults, are often better equipped to diagnose and manage Alzheimer's. The availability of geriatric specialists can significantly improve the quality of care and reduce the burden on PCPs. Identifying geriatric specialists requires a review of the local healthcare network and consultation with healthcare professionals.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for ZIP Code 25818 and Bradley, WV, is likely to be negatively impacted by the factors discussed above. The area's rural setting, potential physician shortages, and limited access to specialized care likely create significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The lack of readily available data on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of specialized care makes a definitive score difficult to calculate. However, the assessment suggests that improvements in these areas are crucial for improving the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's in this community.

The need for increased awareness and support for Alzheimer's care in Bradley, WV, is clear. This analysis serves as a starting point for further investigation and action. The community should focus on attracting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding access to mental health and supportive services.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources in Bradley, WV, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and identifying areas where resources are lacking. They can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your care.