26138, Brohard, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.42 percent of the residents in 26138 has some form of health insurance. 70.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.97 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 26138 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26138. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 17 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 111 health care providers accessible to residents in 26138, Brohard, West Virginia.

The following analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care services in the context of Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 26138, focusing on the Brohard area. This assessment considers factors relevant to Alzheimer's care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. It is important to remember that this analysis is based on publicly available data and should not be considered a definitive endorsement or condemnation of any specific practice or physician.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in a specific geographic area is crucial for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. Early diagnosis, ongoing management, and access to supportive services are vital for improving the quality of life for patients and their caregivers.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Brohard (ZIP code 26138), the ratio of primary care physicians to the population, including elderly individuals, is a critical factor. A lower ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment for conditions like Alzheimer's. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can be used to estimate this ratio. However, it's important to note that this is a broad measure. The actual availability of appointments and the ability of physicians to accept new patients can vary significantly.

Standout practices within the area often distinguish themselves through several key characteristics. These include a focus on geriatric care, specialized training in dementia management, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that offer comprehensive services, such as memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and care coordination, are particularly valuable for individuals with Alzheimer's. Furthermore, practices that actively engage with specialists, such as neurologists and psychiatrists, can provide a more holistic approach to care. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of physician profiles, practice websites, and patient reviews (while acknowledging their limitations).

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, including consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients and caregivers. The availability of telemedicine services, however, does not guarantee its quality or effectiveness. The technology infrastructure, physician training, and patient comfort with the technology are all important considerations.

Access to mental health resources is another critical component of Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups is essential for managing these symptoms and supporting both the patient and their caregivers. The availability of these resources within the Brohard area, including their affordability and accessibility, is a key factor in determining the overall quality of care. This includes local support groups, mental health clinics, and the availability of therapists specializing in geriatric care.

Analyzing these factors provides a framework for assessing the quality of Alzheimer's care within the specified geographic area. The assessment should consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

Specifically, in ZIP code 26138, a detailed investigation should include an analysis of the number of primary care physicians actively practicing, their specializations (e.g., geriatric medicine), and their patient load. This would include a review of practice websites and online directories to identify practices that specifically mention Alzheimer's care or dementia management. The presence of memory clinics or specialized memory care programs within the area would be a significant advantage.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption should include an examination of which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services provided via telemedicine, and the technology platforms used. The availability of mental health resources should be evaluated by identifying local mental health clinics, psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups. The accessibility of these resources, including their insurance acceptance and wait times, should also be considered.

The analysis should also consider the demographic profile of the Brohard area. Factors such as the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the socioeconomic status of residents can all influence the demand for and access to healthcare services.

The overall quality of care in Brohard is highly dependent on the coordination of care. Practices that actively collaborate with specialists, hospitals, and community organizations are better equipped to provide comprehensive care for individuals with Alzheimer's. This includes the ability to refer patients to neurologists, psychiatrists, and other specialists as needed, as well as the ability to coordinate care with home health agencies and assisted living facilities.

The assessment should also consider the level of caregiver support available within the community. Alzheimer's disease places a significant burden on caregivers, and access to support groups, respite care, and educational resources is crucial for their well-being.

Ultimately, a comprehensive Alzheimer's score for the Brohard area would reflect the availability and quality of primary care services, the presence of specialized dementia care programs, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the level of caregiver support, and the overall coordination of care. This score would provide a valuable tool for individuals and families seeking to navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's disease.

For a deeper dive into the healthcare landscape of Brohard and surrounding areas, including a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you visualize healthcare data, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.