Health Scores Near 26187, Williamstown, West Virginia
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26187, Williamstown, West Virginia is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 93.94 percent of the residents in 26187 has some form of health insurance. 37.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.40 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 26187 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,195 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26187. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,407 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 457 health care providers accessible to residents in 26187, Williamstown, West Virginia.
Health Scores in 26187, Williamstown, West Virginia
| Alzheimers Score | 88 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 78 |
| Provider Score | 73 |
| Hospital Score | 34 |
| Travel Score | 71 |
| 26187 | Williamstown | West Virginia | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) presents a significant public health challenge, particularly in aging populations. Evaluating healthcare resources within a specific geographic area, like Williamstown, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26187), is crucial to understanding the preparedness for and management of this debilitating illness. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized Alzheimer's care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" assessment.
The foundation of Alzheimer's care often lies in the primary care setting. Early detection, diagnosis, and management of symptoms frequently begin with a patient's family physician. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Williamstown, and the surrounding areas encompassed by ZIP Code 26187, is therefore a critical indicator. A low number of PCPs relative to the population can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and delayed diagnoses, all of which negatively impact the care of individuals at risk for, or living with, AD. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards, would be essential to determine the exact number of PCPs practicing within the specified ZIP code and calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio is a vital metric; a higher ratio indicates fewer doctors per capita, potentially straining the healthcare system.
Beyond the raw number of physicians, the expertise and experience of those physicians are also relevant. Does the local medical community possess physicians with specific training or a demonstrated interest in geriatric medicine or neurology? These specialists are better equipped to recognize the subtle early signs of cognitive decline and to conduct the necessary diagnostic assessments, including cognitive testing and referrals to specialists. The presence of neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists within a reasonable distance of Williamstown is an important factor in the "Alzheimer's Score" calculation. The existence of memory care clinics or specialized Alzheimer's centers would significantly enhance the score, offering comprehensive care, including diagnosis, treatment, and support services for patients and their families.
Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The adoption of telemedicine by local physicians in Williamstown can improve access to care for individuals with AD. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and even cognitive assessments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and easing the burden on patients and their caregivers. The availability of telehealth services, especially those specifically designed for geriatric care or cognitive health, will positively influence the "Alzheimer's Score." Investigating the availability of telehealth platforms, the types of services offered, and the ease of access for patients would be key.
Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. AD often brings with it behavioral changes, anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges for both the patient and their caregivers. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is critical. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care programs for caregivers is also essential. These resources can help manage the emotional and psychological toll of the disease, improving the quality of life for those affected. Assessing the availability of these services, their accessibility, and the integration of mental health care into the overall treatment plan will influence the "Alzheimer's Score."
Standout practices within the area would contribute to a higher "Alzheimer's Score." Identifying any primary care clinics or specialist practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care would be beneficial. This might include practices that:
* Have a dedicated staff member specializing in geriatric care.
* Offer comprehensive cognitive assessments.
* Actively participate in research or clinical trials related to AD.
* Provide patient and caregiver education programs.
* Utilize innovative technologies like telehealth for patient care.
The "Alzheimer's Score" for Williamstown, based on the factors outlined above, would be a composite measure reflecting the overall preparedness of the local healthcare system to address the needs of individuals with AD. The score could range from low to high, depending on the availability and quality of resources. A low score would indicate a need for improvement, highlighting areas where resources are lacking. A high score would signify a well-equipped healthcare system with ample resources to support patients and their families.
To summarize, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Williamstown, WV (ZIP Code 26187) would be determined by several factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialists (geriatricians, neurologists, neuropsychologists), the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Standout practices with a focus on Alzheimer's care would also significantly improve the score.
For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Williamstown and the surrounding areas, and to gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the availability of healthcare services, helping you visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.
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