26260, Davis, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26260, Davis, West Virginia is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.49 percent of the residents in 26260 has some form of health insurance. 44.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.02 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 26260 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 171 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26260. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 343 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 88 health care providers accessible to residents in 26260, Davis, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26260 & Primary Care in Davis

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care services in Davis, West Virginia, focusing on the specific needs of individuals concerned about Alzheimer's disease. We will assess the resources available within ZIP code 26260, considering physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This information is crucial for residents seeking accessible and comprehensive care for themselves or their loved ones.

Davis, nestled within the rugged terrain of West Virginia, presents unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The rural nature of the area can lead to a lower density of healthcare providers compared to more urban environments. Therefore, understanding the specific resources available within ZIP code 26260 is paramount for navigating the healthcare landscape.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:** A critical metric for assessing healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and increased strain on existing medical professionals. Researching the physician-to-patient ratio within 26260 is the first step in understanding the availability of primary care. Public health data, often available through state or county health departments, can provide insights into these ratios. This data should be compared to national averages to determine if the area faces a shortage of primary care physicians.

**Standout Practices:** Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer a wider range of services, and may have specialized expertise in geriatric care or cognitive health. Researching local practices involves looking at online reviews, patient testimonials, and the services they offer. Does the practice have experience in diagnosing and managing cognitive decline? Do they offer memory screenings or partner with specialists in neurology or geriatrics? Practices that actively engage with the community through educational programs or support groups for patients and families are particularly valuable.

**Telemedicine Adoption:** The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. Telemedicine offers the potential for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists who may not be physically located in the area. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within 26260 is essential. Do local primary care practices offer virtual appointments? Do they utilize remote monitoring technologies to track patient health? The availability of reliable internet connectivity is also a critical factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives.

**Mental Health Resources:** Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia often present significant mental health challenges for both patients and their caregivers. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. Researching the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within or near 26260 is necessary. Does the area have access to mental health clinics or support groups for individuals with cognitive impairment and their families? Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is essential for providing holistic care.

**Specific Considerations for Davis:** Davis, as a small community, may face unique challenges regarding healthcare access. The local economy and demographic makeup should be considered. Are there any specific initiatives or partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations to address the needs of older adults? Are there transportation services available to help patients access medical appointments, particularly for those with mobility issues?

**Analysis and Interpretation:** After gathering information on physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, an "Alzheimer's Score" can be developed. This score would reflect the overall availability and quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. The score should consider factors such as the number of primary care physicians per capita, the presence of practices specializing in geriatric care, the availability of telemedicine services, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The higher the score, the more readily available and comprehensive the care is likely to be.

**Recommendations:** Based on the analysis, recommendations can be made to improve healthcare access and quality in Davis. These might include advocating for increased physician recruitment, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, supporting the development of mental health services, and fostering collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations. Community outreach programs can also raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and provide education and support to those affected.

**The Importance of Proactive Planning:** For individuals and families concerned about Alzheimer's disease, proactive planning is essential. This includes establishing a relationship with a primary care physician, learning about the early signs of cognitive decline, and seeking support from local resources. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

**Conclusion:** Assessing the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26260 is a crucial step in ensuring that residents have access to the care they need. By analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources, a comprehensive understanding of the area's capabilities can be achieved. This information empowers individuals and families to make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improved services within their community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Davis, West Virginia, and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available within ZIP code 26260, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. These tools can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized services, and other relevant information.