26405, Moatsville, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26405, Moatsville, West Virginia is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.75 percent of the residents in 26405 has some form of health insurance. 68.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.27 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 26405 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 272 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26405. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 333 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 143 health care providers accessible to residents in 26405, Moatsville, West Virginia.

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) presents a significant public health challenge, especially within aging populations. Assessing healthcare accessibility and quality for individuals with or at risk of AD is crucial. This analysis focuses on the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 26405 (Moatsville, West Virginia) and its surrounding areas, evaluating primary care availability and related resources through an “Alzheimer's Score” lens. This score isn't a formal, standardized metric, but rather a qualitative assessment considering key factors relevant to AD care.

The primary consideration for the Alzheimer's Score is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or concerned about memory issues. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, less frequent monitoring, and increased difficulty in accessing specialized care. Within Moatsville and the surrounding areas, a preliminary investigation suggests a potentially strained PCP-to-patient ratio. Rural areas often face shortages, and this region is likely no exception. This necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare access.

A second factor is the presence of geriatric specialists and neurologists. While PCPs can provide initial screening and management, specialized expertise is often necessary for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing care. The availability of these specialists within a reasonable travel distance is vital. The Alzheimer's Score reflects the degree of access to these specialists. If travel is limited, the score is lower.

Standout practices are those demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care and AD management. These practices often have staff trained in dementia care, offer memory screenings, and provide support services for patients and their families. Identifying these practices is crucial for individuals seeking quality AD care. The Alzheimer's Score acknowledges practices that prioritize these services.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely, receive medication management, and participate in support groups. The Alzheimer's Score gives weight to practices that embrace telemedicine and offer virtual care options.

Mental health resources are another important element of the Alzheimer's Score. AD often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Access to psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors is essential for comprehensive care. The score considers the availability of mental health services within the community.

The availability of support groups and caregiver resources is also considered. Caring for someone with AD can be incredibly demanding. Support groups provide a safe space for caregivers to share experiences, receive emotional support, and learn coping strategies. Resources such as respite care, educational programs, and legal and financial planning assistance are also vital. The Alzheimer's Score reflects the availability and accessibility of these resources.

Evaluating the Alzheimer's Score requires a multi-faceted approach. It’s not just about the number of doctors, but also about the quality of care, the availability of specialists, the integration of technology, and the presence of supportive services.

In the context of Moatsville (ZIP code 26405), the Alzheimer's Score is likely to be moderate. While the area may have some primary care physicians, the potential for a strained PCP-to-patient ratio and the limited availability of geriatric specialists and neurologists could lower the score. Telemedicine adoption might be a critical factor to boost the score. The availability of mental health services and caregiver support is also a key factor. A thorough assessment would require detailed data on physician availability, specialization, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of support services.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. New practices may emerge, telemedicine options may expand, and support services may become more readily available. Regularly updating the Alzheimer's Score is essential to ensure its accuracy and relevance. This requires ongoing monitoring of healthcare resources and the changing needs of the community.

A comprehensive analysis would involve reviewing local healthcare directories, consulting with healthcare professionals, and gathering data on patient demographics and healthcare utilization. This data would inform a more precise assessment of the Alzheimer's Score and identify areas for improvement.

Ultimately, the goal of the Alzheimer's Score is to provide a snapshot of the healthcare environment and highlight areas where resources are needed. It can be used to inform healthcare planning, advocate for improved services, and empower individuals and families to make informed decisions about their care.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Moatsville and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, specialists, and support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify gaps in access, and support informed decision-making.