26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.13 percent of the residents in 26330 has some form of health insurance. 34.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.83 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 26330 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,573 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26330. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,777 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,322 health care providers accessible to residents in 26330, Bridgeport, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Bridgeport, WV (ZIP Code 26330)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care and related resources in Bridgeport, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26330), with a specific focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease diagnosis, management, and patient support. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a recommendation for improved spatial understanding using CartoChrome maps.

Bridgeport, a city in Harrison County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Its population, while not exceptionally large, includes a significant demographic of older adults, a population at higher risk for Alzheimer's. Access to timely and effective primary care is crucial for early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing management of this debilitating disease. The analysis begins with an examination of the physician-to-patient ratio within the designated ZIP code.

Accurate physician-to-patient ratio data is essential for understanding access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) provides a starting point, but this information often lacks the granular detail needed for a precise assessment. Furthermore, these sources may not reflect the current reality, as physician availability fluctuates. A more in-depth investigation would involve contacting local hospitals, clinics, and private practices to ascertain the number of primary care physicians actively serving the 26330 ZIP code.

Initial research suggests that Harrison County, while not designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for primary care, may still experience access challenges. This means that while the overall ratio might appear acceptable, there could be pockets within the county, including Bridgeport, where access is limited, particularly for specialized geriatric care. The presence of a larger healthcare system in the area, such as United Hospital Center, is a positive factor, potentially offering a wider range of specialists and resources. However, the distribution of these resources within the community is critical.

Identifying standout primary care practices requires a multi-faceted approach. Reviews from patients, referrals from specialists, and the adoption of best practices in geriatric care are key indicators. Practices that actively screen for cognitive decline, offer comprehensive geriatric assessments, and collaborate with specialists in neurology and psychiatry are particularly valuable. Moreover, practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, focusing on communication, empathy, and individualized care plans, are more likely to provide superior support for Alzheimer's patients and their families.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those residing in rural areas. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide ongoing support can significantly improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and reduce the burden on caregivers. The analysis considers the extent to which primary care practices in Bridgeport have integrated telemedicine into their services. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for medication management and patient education.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is crucial for managing these symptoms and providing support to both patients and caregivers. The analysis examines the number of mental health professionals serving the 26330 ZIP code, the types of services they offer, and their willingness to collaborate with primary care physicians in providing coordinated care.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the presence of support groups, respite care services, and other resources for Alzheimer's patients and their families. These resources can provide invaluable emotional support, practical assistance, and educational opportunities. The presence of organizations like the Alzheimer's Association or local chapters of similar organizations is a positive indicator.

The evaluation of primary care availability and related resources in Bridgeport, WV (ZIP Code 26330) reveals a complex picture. While the presence of a larger healthcare system and a potentially acceptable physician-to-patient ratio offer a degree of assurance, further investigation is needed to determine the actual access to care, especially for geriatric specialists. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources are critical factors influencing the overall quality of care for Alzheimer's patients.

To comprehensively understand the spatial distribution of these resources and identify areas with limited access, a visual representation is essential. CartoChrome maps can provide this critical spatial understanding. By visualizing the locations of primary care practices, mental health professionals, support groups, and other relevant resources, CartoChrome maps can reveal patterns and disparities in access to care. This visual approach allows for the identification of underserved areas and the development of targeted interventions to improve access to care for Alzheimer's patients and their families in Bridgeport, WV.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bridgeport, WV (ZIP Code 26330) and to visualize the distribution of vital resources, we strongly recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. This tool can provide a comprehensive spatial analysis, empowering healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to make informed decisions and improve access to care for those affected by Alzheimer's disease.