26181, Washington, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26181, Washington, West Virginia is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.08 percent of the residents in 26181 has some form of health insurance. 47.62 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.62 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 26181 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,435 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26181. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,859 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 412 health care providers accessible to residents in 26181, Washington, West Virginia.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26181 and Primary Care Availability in Washington

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning Alzheimer's care, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Washington State, focusing on the specific context of ZIP code 26181 (Parkersburg, West Virginia), and evaluate factors crucial for Alzheimer's patient support.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often lies within the primary care setting. Early diagnosis, ongoing monitoring, and coordination of specialized care are often initiated by PCPs. Therefore, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio in Washington is crucial. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available sources from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) provide general estimates. Washington State, like many states, faces challenges in physician distribution, with rural areas often experiencing shortages. This impacts access to timely appointments and comprehensive care, particularly for vulnerable populations like those at risk or diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

Within ZIP code 26181, the situation may vary. Parkersburg, as a city, might offer a slightly better physician-to-patient ratio compared to more remote areas of Washington. However, factors like physician specialization, insurance acceptance, and patient demographics can significantly affect access. Furthermore, the availability of geriatric specialists and neurologists, who are vital for diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's, is a critical consideration. A high concentration of these specialists within or near the ZIP code would positively influence the Alzheimer's Score.

Evaluating standout practices requires examining several criteria. Practices excelling in Alzheimer's care often prioritize early detection through cognitive assessments, offer comprehensive care plans, and demonstrate strong coordination with specialists and support services. They might participate in clinical trials, providing patients access to cutting-edge treatments. Furthermore, practices with a focus on patient education and caregiver support are highly valued. They offer resources like support groups, educational materials, and counseling services, empowering patients and their families to navigate the complexities of the disease.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas to access specialists and receive ongoing care remotely. This is particularly important for Alzheimer's patients, who may have difficulty traveling to appointments. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, enhancing patient convenience and improving access to care. The availability of telemedicine also impacts the Alzheimer's Score positively.

Mental health resources play a vital role in Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and improving the patient's quality of life. The availability of these resources within the community, along with access to medication management and counseling services, significantly impacts the overall Alzheimer's Score.

Specific to ZIP code 26181, an analysis would need to identify the presence of these mental health resources. Are there psychiatrists and psychologists accepting new patients? Are there local support groups for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers? Are there community mental health centers offering affordable services? The answers to these questions directly influence the score.

Caregiver support is another critical element. Alzheimer's places a significant burden on caregivers, who often experience stress, burnout, and isolation. Practices that offer caregiver support programs, such as respite care, educational workshops, and support groups, are highly valued. The availability of these resources within the community, along with access to home health services and assisted living facilities, is crucial for supporting caregivers and ensuring the patient's well-being.

The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, isn't a single number but a composite assessment. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the availability of caregiver support. The score would be higher in areas with a greater concentration of resources and a more robust healthcare infrastructure.

In the context of Washington State and ZIP code 26181, the Alzheimer's Score would likely be impacted by the challenges of physician distribution, the availability of specialized care, and the accessibility of mental health resources. While Parkersburg, as a city, might offer certain advantages, the overall score would be influenced by the broader healthcare landscape of the state.

Ultimately, understanding the healthcare landscape requires a detailed, data-driven approach. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the Alzheimer's Score, highlighting the crucial factors that influence access to care and the quality of life for patients and their families.

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare resources, physician locations, and access to care in Washington and ZIP code 26181, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a dynamic and insightful perspective on the healthcare landscape, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.