26146, Friendly, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26146, Friendly, West Virginia is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.36 percent of the residents in 26146 has some form of health insurance. 53.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.87 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 26146 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 96 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26146. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 308 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 378 health care providers accessible to residents in 26146, Friendly, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26146 and Primary Care in Friendly, WV

This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care within ZIP code 26146, encompassing the community of Friendly, West Virginia, with a specific focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. The goal is to evaluate the availability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare services, particularly concerning the needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. This evaluation is not an exhaustive medical study, but a review of publicly available information to provide a general overview.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care lies in strong primary care. Early diagnosis and consistent management are crucial for slowing disease progression and improving the quality of life for patients. This analysis considers several key elements, including physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which significantly impact the quality of care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in a given area provides a crucial indicator of access to care. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and difficulty in securing specialized care. Publicly available data, such as that from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, will be reviewed to determine the physician-to-patient ratio within the 26146 ZIP code. This information will be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care physicians. It is anticipated that the rural nature of the area will likely present challenges in this regard.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Friendly necessitates identifying the existing practices and providers within the ZIP code. This includes reviewing directories of healthcare providers, insurance networks, and online resources. The presence of family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, and geriatricians will be noted. The number of providers accepting new patients, particularly those with Medicare or Medicaid, is another critical consideration. Practices with a strong focus on geriatric care or experience with Alzheimer's patients will be highlighted.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care. This involves evaluating factors such as the availability of on-site diagnostic services, the integration of care coordination programs, and the adoption of electronic health records. Practices that proactively screen for cognitive impairment, offer support groups for caregivers, and provide education on Alzheimer's disease will be recognized. The use of patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews will also be incorporated into the assessment.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care providers in the 26146 ZIP code is crucial. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health consultations will be viewed favorably.

Mental health resources are essential for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is critical for managing these symptoms. The availability of these resources within the 26146 ZIP code will be assessed, including the presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups. The ability of primary care providers to refer patients to these resources is also a key factor.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for primary care in Friendly, WV, will be a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. The score will reflect the relative strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area, providing a general indicator of the quality of care available to individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families. It is important to note that this score is not intended to be a definitive measure of quality but rather a starting point for further investigation and analysis.

Based on the anticipated rural nature of the area, it is likely that the 26146 ZIP code may face challenges in terms of physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialized services. However, the presence of dedicated primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can significantly improve the quality of care. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer comprehensive support, and leverage technology to enhance access will be highly valued.

The evaluation of primary care in Friendly, WV, also considers the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes the availability of hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and home healthcare agencies. The presence of these resources is essential for providing a continuum of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The integration of these resources with primary care providers is also a key factor.

In conclusion, the assessment of primary care in the 26146 ZIP code, encompassing Friendly, WV, reveals a landscape shaped by the challenges of rural healthcare. While access to care may be limited, the presence of dedicated providers, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources offer opportunities to improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families. Further investigation and analysis are recommended to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the specific needs of the community and to identify opportunities for improvement.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 26146 ZIP code and surrounding areas, including physician locations, resource availability, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful tools for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling you to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your loved ones.