26141, Creston, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26141, Creston, West Virginia is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.11 percent of the residents in 26141 has some form of health insurance. 56.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.67 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 26141 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26141. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 101 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 79 health care providers accessible to residents in 26141, Creston, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Creston, WV (ZIP Code 26141)

Analyzing the availability of resources for Alzheimer's patients within Creston, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26141) requires a multi-faceted approach. We need to evaluate the local healthcare landscape, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access, mental health support, and the integration of modern technologies like telemedicine. This analysis will culminate in an "Alzheimer's Score," providing a relative measure of the community's preparedness to support individuals and families affected by this devastating disease.

The foundation of any Alzheimer's care plan lies in accessible primary care. This is the point of initial contact for diagnosis, management, and referral. In Creston, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors, will negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score. Research into the number of practicing PCPs within and immediately surrounding the 26141 ZIP code is essential. This includes not just the raw number of physicians, but also their specialties (e.g., geriatric medicine), their acceptance of new patients, and their appointment availability.

Furthermore, the geographical distribution of these physicians matters. Are they clustered in one area, potentially leaving residents in more rural parts of the ZIP code underserved? A lack of readily accessible primary care significantly hampers early detection and ongoing management of Alzheimer's disease. This directly impacts the ability to slow disease progression, manage symptoms, and provide timely access to support services.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are physicians knowledgeable about Alzheimer's disease and its complexities? Do they offer comprehensive cognitive assessments? Do they have established referral networks to neurologists, neuropsychologists, and other specialists? The Alzheimer's Score will consider the presence of these elements. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, including memory clinics or specialized programs, will receive higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption represents a crucial element in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Creston. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists who may not be physically present in the community. This is particularly important for Alzheimer's patients, who often face mobility challenges. The ability to consult with neurologists, psychiatrists, and therapists remotely can significantly improve their quality of life and access to care. The Alzheimer's Score will assess the availability of telemedicine services among local PCPs and specialists. This includes the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring) and the ease of access for patients.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease not only affects cognitive function but also significantly impacts mood, behavior, and overall mental well-being. Patients and their caregivers often experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), is therefore critical. The Alzheimer's Score will evaluate the presence of these professionals within the community and their accessibility. This includes the availability of individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups for both patients and caregivers.

Another factor to consider is the presence of specialized Alzheimer's care facilities or programs within or near Creston. These facilities can provide respite care, day programs, and residential care tailored to the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the availability of these resources, as well as the quality of care provided. This includes assessing the staffing levels, the training of staff in dementia care, and the availability of activities and therapies designed to improve quality of life.

The availability of support services for caregivers is also crucial. Caregiving for someone with Alzheimer's is incredibly demanding, both physically and emotionally. Caregivers often experience burnout, stress, and isolation. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the availability of caregiver support groups, educational programs, and respite care services. These resources can provide caregivers with the support and resources they need to continue providing care while maintaining their own well-being.

Analyzing the financial aspects of care is also essential. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the availability of resources to help patients and families navigate the costs of care. This includes information about Medicare and Medicaid benefits, as well as assistance with accessing financial aid programs. The cost of care can be a significant burden for families, and access to financial resources is crucial for ensuring that patients receive the care they need.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for Creston, WV (ZIP Code 26141) will be a composite measure reflecting the availability and quality of primary care, mental health resources, telemedicine adoption, and specialized Alzheimer's care services. It will also consider the availability of caregiver support and financial assistance. A high score indicates a community that is well-equipped to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. A low score indicates a need for improvement in several key areas. The analysis will be a dynamic process, requiring ongoing monitoring and evaluation to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Creston, including the geographical distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant resources, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data visualization.
**Click here to explore the healthcare landscape of Creston and surrounding areas with CartoChrome maps.**