26739, Mount Storm, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26739, Mount Storm, West Virginia is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.40 percent of the residents in 26739 has some form of health insurance. 49.45 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.05 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 26739 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 216 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26739. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 218 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 208 health care providers accessible to residents in 26739, Mount Storm, West Virginia.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge, particularly in rural areas where access to specialized care and support services can be limited. This analysis focuses on the availability of resources and the potential quality of care for individuals in the Mount Storm, West Virginia area (ZIP Code 26739) concerning Alzheimer's disease, considering factors like physician availability, primary care access, and the presence of supporting mental health services.

The landscape of healthcare in ZIP Code 26739, a predominantly rural area, likely faces challenges common to such locations. One of the primary hurdles is the physician-to-patient ratio. Rural areas often experience a shortage of medical professionals, including primary care physicians, neurologists, and geriatric specialists, who are crucial for diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing specific, up-to-date data from sources like the West Virginia Board of Medicine and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. However, it is reasonable to assume that the ratio in 26739 is less favorable compared to more urbanized regions. This scarcity can translate into longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment.

Primary care availability is a critical factor. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline. They can perform initial assessments, refer patients to specialists when necessary, and coordinate care. In Mount Storm, the accessibility of primary care directly impacts the early detection and management of Alzheimer's. The presence of local primary care clinics, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of various insurance plans all contribute to the overall availability of care. The availability of transportation options, such as public transit or community-based transportation programs, also plays a role in ensuring that patients can reach these essential services.

Standout practices, if any, within or near 26739, would be those demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care and cognitive health. This might involve clinics that have physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or neurology. It could also include practices that offer memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and support groups for patients and their families. Identifying these standout practices requires in-depth research, including reviewing patient testimonials, checking online reviews, and contacting local healthcare providers directly. A practice that actively participates in community outreach programs related to Alzheimer's awareness and education would also be a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption presents a promising solution to the challenges of rural healthcare access. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and expanding access to expertise. The availability of telemedicine services for neurology and geriatric care within or near 26739 would be a significant advantage. This includes the availability of video consultations, remote monitoring tools, and digital platforms for sharing medical information. The level of technological infrastructure in the area, including internet access and broadband speed, directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine adoption.

Mental health resources are essential for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The disease often leads to behavioral changes, mood swings, and psychological distress. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and providing emotional support. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and respite care programs can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and their families. The presence of these resources within or near 26739, and their accessibility to residents, is a key indicator of the overall support system for individuals with Alzheimer's.

In the absence of specific, real-time data, it is difficult to provide a precise Alzheimer's Score for the area. However, based on the general characteristics of rural healthcare, it is reasonable to assume that 26739 faces challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, and access to specialized services. The presence of telemedicine and robust mental health resources would be significant positive factors. The overall score would likely be lower than in more urbanized areas with greater access to healthcare infrastructure and specialized medical expertise.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Storm and the surrounding areas, further investigation is required. This includes contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing online directories, and consulting with community organizations that provide services to seniors and individuals with Alzheimer's disease. This would provide more granular insights into the actual availability of resources and the quality of care.
For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 26739, including the location of physicians, clinics, and support services, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, geographically-based overview of healthcare resources, helping you to visualize access and identify potential gaps in care.