26035, Colliers, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26035, Colliers, West Virginia is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.46 percent of the residents in 26035 has some form of health insurance. 45.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.38 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 26035 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 412 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26035. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 594 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,028 health care providers accessible to residents in 26035, Colliers, West Virginia.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge, particularly in areas with aging populations and limited access to specialized care. This analysis assesses the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 26035 (Colliers, West Virginia) focusing on primary care availability and related resources, crucial elements in early detection and management of Alzheimer's. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare environment and its preparedness to address the needs of individuals affected by this debilitating disease.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access**

A fundamental aspect of Alzheimer's care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). These doctors often serve as the first point of contact, responsible for initial assessments, referrals to specialists, and ongoing management of the disease. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in 26035 is critical. Data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and local healthcare provider directories must be utilized to determine the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated patient population. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can significantly hinder access to timely diagnosis and care.

The accessibility of primary care extends beyond the raw number of physicians. Factors such as appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and clinic hours play a crucial role. Long wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment, while limited insurance coverage can create financial barriers. Furthermore, the availability of evening and weekend appointments is essential for accommodating the schedules of working individuals and caregivers. Analyzing these factors provides a more comprehensive understanding of primary care accessibility within the community.

**Standout Practices and Their Contributions**

Identifying standout practices within 26035 requires evaluating their commitment to geriatric care and their specific approaches to Alzheimer's management. Practices demonstrating excellence often exhibit several key characteristics. These include a dedicated focus on geriatric medicine, the provision of comprehensive cognitive assessments, and the implementation of care coordination programs.

Practices that actively participate in research or clinical trials related to Alzheimer's demonstrate a commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in treatment and care. Furthermore, practices that offer educational resources for patients and caregivers, such as support groups and workshops, play a vital role in empowering individuals to navigate the challenges of the disease. Examining the websites and patient reviews of local practices can provide insights into their reputations and patient experiences.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has emerged as a valuable tool in Alzheimer's care, particularly in rural areas like Colliers. Telemedicine can enhance access to specialists, facilitate remote monitoring of patients, and provide convenient access to consultations.

Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within 26035 involves examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices and hospitals. This includes evaluating the types of services offered, such as virtual consultations, remote cognitive assessments, and medication management. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a crucial factor in determining the feasibility of telemedicine. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their care models can significantly improve access to specialized care and support for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Mental Health Resources and their Importance**

Alzheimer's disease often co-occurs with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Access to mental health resources is therefore crucial for providing comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of mental health services within 26035 involves identifying the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors.

The availability of specialized mental health services for older adults is particularly important. These services should be tailored to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Examining the availability of support groups, counseling services, and psychiatric evaluations can provide a clear picture of the mental health resources available within the community. Collaboration between primary care physicians, neurologists, and mental health professionals is essential for providing integrated and holistic care.

**Specific Analysis for 26035 and Colliers**

Conducting a thorough analysis of the healthcare landscape in 26035 requires gathering data from various sources. This includes contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing online directories, and consulting with relevant government agencies. The analysis should focus on identifying the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, the average wait times for appointments, and the types of insurance accepted.

Furthermore, the analysis should identify any practices that specialize in geriatric care or offer comprehensive cognitive assessments. Information on the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered and the technology used, should be gathered. The availability of mental health resources, including the number of mental health professionals and the types of services offered, should also be assessed. This detailed analysis will provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in 26035 and its preparedness to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Alzheimer's Score and Overall Assessment**

Based on the analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care accessibility, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, an "Alzheimer's Score" can be assigned to 26035. This score, which could be a numerical value or a qualitative rating (e.g., "Excellent," "Good," "Fair," "Poor"), provides a concise summary of the community's preparedness to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

The overall assessment should highlight the key findings of the analysis, identifying areas of strength and areas that require improvement. For example, a community with a high physician-to-patient ratio and limited access to mental health services would likely receive a lower score. The assessment should also provide recommendations for improving healthcare access and quality in the community. This could include suggestions for recruiting more PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, and increasing the availability of mental health resources.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

Understanding the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 26035 is crucial for supporting individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. A comprehensive analysis of primary care availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources provides valuable insights into the community's preparedness to address this complex disease.

For a visual representation of the healthcare resources in 26035 and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. These maps can help you identify healthcare providers, assess access to care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs. Visit CartoChrome today to visualize the healthcare landscape and empower yourself with the information you need.