26228, Kanawha Head, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26228, Kanawha Head, West Virginia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 0.00 percent of the residents in 26228 has some form of health insurance. 0.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 0.00 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 26228 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26228. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,810 health care providers accessible to residents in 26228, Kanawha Head, West Virginia.

The following analysis examines the state of Alzheimer's care and primary care availability within the context of the specified geographical parameters: ZIP Code 26228 and the broader region of Kanawha Head, West Virginia. This evaluation employs an "Alzheimer's Score" framework, considering factors crucial for effective dementia management, including physician density, access to specialized care, telemedicine utilization, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

ZIP Code 26228, encompassing the town of Belington, West Virginia, presents a unique challenge in terms of healthcare access. The area is characterized by a relatively small population and a rural setting, which often translates to limited resources and longer travel distances for patients seeking specialized medical care. The Alzheimer's Score for this region will be influenced by the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the presence of neurologists or geriatricians, and the accessibility of support services for patients and their families.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. In rural areas, the ratio of PCPs to the population is often lower than in urban centers. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing healthcare providers. A lower physician-to-patient ratio directly impacts the Alzheimer's Score, as it may hinder early diagnosis and timely intervention, both of which are crucial for managing the disease. The availability of specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, is even more crucial for Alzheimer's care. These specialists possess the expertise necessary to diagnose, treat, and manage the complex symptoms associated with the disease. Their presence, or lack thereof, significantly impacts the score.

Primary care availability in Kanawha Head, a community within Barbour County, is another critical factor. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. They play a vital role in initial screening, referral to specialists, and ongoing management of the disease. The Alzheimer's Score is directly affected by the accessibility and quality of primary care services in the area. The more accessible and comprehensive the primary care, the better the outlook for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 26228 and the surrounding region would be those that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care. This includes practices that prioritize early detection through cognitive assessments, provide comprehensive patient education, and offer support services for caregivers. These practices would likely have a higher Alzheimer's Score due to their proactive approach to dementia management. The presence of dedicated memory clinics or specialized programs for Alzheimer's patients would be a significant positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where travel can be a barrier to accessing care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for long-distance travel. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for Alzheimer's care would receive a higher score, as they are demonstrating a commitment to improving access to care for their patients. This includes the use of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups.

Mental health resources are an integral component of Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is essential for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers. The availability of mental health services, including therapy, medication management, and support groups, significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score.

The integration of these factors – physician density, specialist availability, primary care access, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – determines the overall Alzheimer's Score for the region. A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing quality Alzheimer's care, while a high score would reflect a more robust and accessible healthcare system. The specific data for ZIP Code 26228 and Kanawha Head would need to be analyzed to determine the precise score.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for doctors in ZIP Code 26228 and primary care availability in Kanawha Head likely reflects the challenges inherent in rural healthcare settings. Limited resources, longer travel distances, and a potential scarcity of specialists may contribute to a lower score. However, practices that prioritize early detection, embrace telemedicine, and integrate mental health services can significantly improve the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this region, including the location of healthcare providers and the availability of services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can visualize healthcare data, allowing for a more informed assessment of the local resources.