26343, Crawford, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26343, Crawford, West Virginia is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.50 percent of the residents in 26343 has some form of health insurance. 80.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 20.25 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 26343 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 50 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26343. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 97 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 481 health care providers accessible to residents in 26343, Crawford, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26343 & Primary Care in Crawford

This analysis assesses the landscape of healthcare accessibility and resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 26343, focusing on physician availability and primary care within the broader Crawford County, West Virginia. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for individuals and families navigating the complexities of this disease. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources – all crucial elements in supporting Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers.

The "Alzheimer's Score" isn't a numerical value but rather a qualitative assessment based on the availability and quality of care, considering the specific needs of Alzheimer's patients. This analysis will evaluate the current situation and identify areas for improvement.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios in ZIP Code 26343 and Crawford County**

A fundamental aspect of Alzheimer's care is access to physicians, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs) and neurologists. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator of accessibility. ZIP code 26343, encompassing a portion of Crawford County, likely faces challenges common to rural areas. These challenges include a lower density of physicians compared to urban centers.

To accurately assess the physician-to-patient ratio, data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Census Bureau would be required. This data would reveal the number of PCPs and neurologists practicing within the ZIP code and the county, along with the corresponding population figures. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and accessing specialist care. This is particularly concerning for Alzheimer's patients, who require regular monitoring and often face complex medical needs.

Crawford County, as a whole, may experience similar challenges. The availability of specialists, such as geriatricians and neuropsychologists, is crucial for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing care for Alzheimer's patients. The county's overall physician distribution significantly impacts the "Alzheimer's Score." If the county has a shortage of specialists, the score will be negatively impacted.

**Standout Practices and Exemplary Care**

Identifying practices that excel in Alzheimer's care is essential. These "standout practices" often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporating specialized services and support for both patients and their families. This includes practices that offer:

* **Early Diagnosis and Assessment:** Utilizing cognitive screening tools and providing comprehensive neurological evaluations.
* **Care Coordination:** Collaborating with other healthcare providers, such as therapists, social workers, and home health agencies, to ensure a coordinated approach to care.
* **Caregiver Support:** Offering educational resources, support groups, and respite care options to alleviate the burden on caregivers.
* **Advanced Treatment Options:** Providing access to the latest medications and therapies, including clinical trials when appropriate.

Identifying these practices requires research, including reviewing patient testimonials, assessing practice websites, and consulting with local healthcare organizations. Practices demonstrating these qualities would contribute positively to the "Alzheimer's Score."

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine by practices within ZIP code 26343 and Crawford County can significantly impact the "Alzheimer's Score." Telemedicine allows patients to connect with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care.

For Alzheimer's patients, telemedicine can facilitate:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Providing access to neurologists and other specialists for diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing monitoring.
* **Medication Management:** Monitoring medication adherence and addressing any side effects.
* **Caregiver Support:** Offering virtual support groups and educational sessions for caregivers.

The level of telemedicine adoption within the region is a crucial factor in the "Alzheimer's Score." Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving access to care and supporting patients and their families.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance**

Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. The availability of mental health resources is therefore critical for providing comprehensive care. This includes:

* **Psychiatrists:** Providing medication management and therapy for mental health conditions.
* **Psychologists and Therapists:** Offering individual and group therapy to address emotional and behavioral challenges.
* **Support Groups:** Providing a safe space for patients and caregivers to share experiences and receive support.

The presence of these resources within ZIP code 26343 and Crawford County directly impacts the "Alzheimer's Score." A lack of mental health resources can lead to untreated symptoms, negatively affecting the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers.

**Conclusion: Assessing the "Alzheimer's Score"**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for doctors in ZIP code 26343 and primary care availability in Crawford County is likely to be moderate, with potential for improvement. The assessment would need to consider the physician-to-patient ratios, identify any standout practices, evaluate the extent of telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources. The score would reflect the overall capacity of the region to provide adequate care and support for Alzheimer's patients and their families.

**Call to Action**

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 26343 and Crawford County, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. This platform allows you to visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, providing valuable insights into access to care.