26267, Ellamore, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26267, Ellamore, West Virginia is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.16 percent of the residents in 26267 has some form of health insurance. 29.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.62 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 26267 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 368 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26267. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 26 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 554 health care providers accessible to residents in 26267, Ellamore, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26267 & Primary Care in Ellamore

This analysis delves into the quality of Alzheimer's care and primary care accessibility within ZIP code 26267, encompassing the town of Ellamore, West Virginia. We will assess the availability of physicians, particularly primary care providers, and evaluate the resources available to address the complex needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Our goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. In Ellamore and the surrounding areas within 26267, the availability of primary care physicians is likely a significant factor. Rural communities often face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency room services. The specific ratio in 26267 needs to be carefully examined. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and private healthcare databases should be cross-referenced to determine the exact number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the corresponding patient population.

The presence of specialists, particularly neurologists and geriatricians, is crucial for diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. These specialists possess the expertise to conduct comprehensive evaluations, differentiate Alzheimer's from other forms of dementia, and develop personalized treatment plans. The analysis should identify the availability of these specialists within a reasonable geographic radius of Ellamore. Travel distance and transportation options significantly impact access to specialized care, especially for elderly individuals who may have mobility limitations.

Standout practices within 26267 should be identified. These practices may be characterized by their commitment to patient-centered care, their utilization of innovative technologies, or their strong community outreach programs. Factors such as the availability of on-site diagnostic testing, the implementation of electronic health records, and the provision of care coordination services should be considered. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to Alzheimer's care, such as offering memory screenings or support groups for caregivers, deserve special recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and provide convenient access to follow-up appointments. The analysis should assess the extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in 26267 utilize telemedicine platforms. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve the quality of care and enhance patient satisfaction.

Mental health resources are integral to providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The analysis should examine the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within 26267. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options for caregivers is also important. These resources can help individuals and families cope with the emotional and psychological toll of Alzheimer's disease.

The analysis should also consider the availability of community resources. This includes adult day care centers, assisted living facilities, and skilled nursing facilities. These facilities provide essential support for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. The quality of care provided by these facilities should be assessed. This can be done by reviewing inspection reports, patient satisfaction surveys, and other relevant data.

The availability of home healthcare services is another critical factor. Home healthcare allows individuals with Alzheimer's to remain in their homes for as long as possible, which can improve their quality of life and reduce the burden on caregivers. The analysis should identify the availability of home healthcare agencies in 26267 and assess the range of services they offer. This includes skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and personal care services.

The analysis should also consider the affordability of healthcare services. The cost of Alzheimer's care can be substantial, and many individuals and families struggle to afford it. The analysis should examine the availability of financial assistance programs, such as Medicaid and Medicare, and assess the extent to which healthcare providers accept these programs.

The analysis should also evaluate the level of community awareness and education about Alzheimer's disease. This includes assessing the availability of educational programs for the public, support groups for caregivers, and training programs for healthcare professionals. A well-informed community is better equipped to recognize the signs of Alzheimer's disease, provide support to individuals and families affected by the disease, and advocate for improved healthcare services.

The analysis should also consider the impact of social determinants of health on access to care. Social determinants of health are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes, such as socioeconomic status, education, and access to transportation. Individuals with low incomes, limited education, and poor access to transportation may face significant barriers to accessing healthcare services. The analysis should identify these barriers and explore strategies to address them.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of Alzheimer's care and primary care availability in 26267 requires a multi-faceted approach. The analysis should consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of community resources, the affordability of care, and the level of community awareness. The goal is to provide a clear and concise overview of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources in Ellamore and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. Their mapping tools provide a powerful way to visualize healthcare data and gain valuable insights into the accessibility of care in your community.