26525, Bruceton Mills, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26525, Bruceton Mills, West Virginia is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 61.26 percent of the residents in 26525 has some form of health insurance. 23.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.89 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 26525 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,022 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26525. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 985 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 853 health care providers accessible to residents in 26525, Bruceton Mills, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 26525 & Primary Care in Bruceton Mills

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and resources for individuals with Alzheimer's disease in and around ZIP code 26525, encompassing Bruceton Mills and surrounding areas, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must assess the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and supportive services, alongside the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, all while considering the unique challenges faced by this rural community. This analysis will culminate in an Alzheimer's Score, offering a relative assessment of the area's preparedness to support individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's.

The foundation of care for Alzheimer's patients rests upon strong primary care. In Bruceton Mills, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are often a key indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, limited access to preventative care, and difficulty establishing consistent relationships with a primary care provider. This is particularly detrimental for Alzheimer's patients, who benefit immensely from continuity of care and the ability to build trust with their physicians. Investigating the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 26525 is the first step. Data from the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide valuable insights.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and scope of services offered by primary care practices are vital. Do practices in Bruceton Mills offer comprehensive geriatric care? Do they have experience diagnosing and managing cognitive decline? Do they have established referral pathways to neurologists, geriatric psychiatrists, and other specialists? These are all crucial considerations. A practice that actively screens for cognitive impairment, offers support for caregivers, and coordinates care with specialists will significantly improve the Alzheimer's Score.

Furthermore, the presence of standout practices within the area can dramatically impact the overall score. A practice known for its commitment to geriatric care, its utilization of evidence-based practices, and its dedication to patient-centered care can serve as a model for others and provide a crucial resource for the community. Identifying and highlighting such practices is essential for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to some of the access challenges faced in rural communities like Bruceton Mills. The ability to consult with specialists remotely, receive medication management, and participate in therapy sessions via video conferencing can significantly improve access to care for Alzheimer's patients. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists in the area is crucial. Are physicians utilizing telehealth platforms? Are they offering virtual consultations? Are they equipped to provide remote monitoring and support? The degree of telemedicine adoption will directly influence the Alzheimer's Score.

Mental health resources are also essential. Alzheimer's disease often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Access to psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups is therefore critical for both patients and their caregivers. Assessing the availability of these resources in and around Bruceton Mills is paramount. Are there local mental health clinics? Are there psychiatrists or therapists specializing in geriatric care? Are there support groups for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families? The presence and accessibility of these resources significantly impact the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

The Alzheimer's Score must also consider the availability of other supportive services. This includes access to home healthcare agencies, respite care services, adult day care programs, and memory care facilities. These services provide crucial support for caregivers, allowing them to maintain their own well-being while providing care for their loved ones. The more comprehensive the network of supportive services, the higher the Alzheimer's Score.

Specific data points to consider when calculating the Alzheimer's Score include: the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians in 26525; the number of geriatric specialists (neurologists, geriatric psychiatrists) practicing within a reasonable distance; the availability of telemedicine services by primary care practices and specialists; the number of mental health professionals specializing in geriatric care; the presence of support groups for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers; the availability of home healthcare agencies, respite care, and adult day care programs; and the existence of memory care facilities within a reasonable distance.

The Alzheimer's Score for the area will be a relative measure, comparing the resources and access within 26525 to benchmarks and best practices. It will be a dynamic score, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape and the ongoing efforts to improve care for individuals with Alzheimer's. A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing care and support, while a high score would suggest a more robust and supportive environment.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Bruceton Mills and the surrounding area, specifically concerning Alzheimer's care. This information can be used to identify areas for improvement, advocate for increased resources, and ultimately, improve the quality of life for individuals and families affected by this devastating disease. Understanding the specific needs of the community and tailoring healthcare solutions accordingly is essential.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in and around ZIP code 26525, including physician locations, facility types, and resource availability, we recommend exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform offers a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the community.