26810, Lost City, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26810, Lost City, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.01 percent of the residents in 26810 has some form of health insurance. 36.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.52 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 26810 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 97 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26810. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 137 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 164 health care providers accessible to residents in 26810, Lost City, West Virginia.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Lost City, WV (ZIP Code 26810)

This analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians and related resources relevant to Alzheimer's care within ZIP code 26810, encompassing the community of Lost City, West Virginia. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" based on key factors impacting access to care and support for individuals and families affected by this devastating disease. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This score is not a definitive judgment but a comparative assessment to inform residents and healthcare stakeholders.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care rests on robust primary care. In Lost City, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Determining this ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the U.S. Census Bureau. The ratio, ideally, should be calculated by dividing the total population of Lost City (and the surrounding areas within the 26810 ZIP code) by the number of actively practicing primary care physicians. A lower ratio indicates potentially better access to primary care. However, this number alone is insufficient. It doesn't account for physician specialization, patient age demographics, or the number of patients each physician can realistically see.

The types of primary care practices in the area are another critical factor. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often offer greater resources, including access to a wider range of specialists and support staff. They might also have more established systems for managing chronic conditions like Alzheimer's. The presence of practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, like hospitals or regional networks, is also a positive indicator. These affiliations often provide access to specialized services, research opportunities, and coordinated care pathways.

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond the basic physician-to-patient ratio. Factors such as the length of time physicians have been practicing in the area, their board certifications, and their involvement in community outreach programs can provide valuable insight. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, including training in dementia diagnosis and management, are particularly important. Reviews from patients, if available, can provide a valuable perspective on the quality of care and the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant element in assessing Alzheimer's care accessibility. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, especially in rural areas like Lost City, allowing patients to access specialists and receive consultations remotely. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for primary care visits, medication management, and even cognitive assessments are likely to score higher. The availability of telehealth options for mental health services is particularly relevant, as Alzheimer's often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms that require specialized support.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease itself has profound effects on mental well-being, and caregivers often experience significant stress and emotional strain. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups within the 26810 ZIP code is therefore crucial. This includes both in-person and virtual options. Access to counseling services for both patients and caregivers is essential for managing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with Alzheimer's.

Beyond direct medical care, the availability of community resources is also vital. This includes adult day care centers, respite care services, and support groups specifically designed for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers, reducing the burden on primary care physicians and the healthcare system. The Alzheimer's Association and other local organizations often provide valuable resources and support.

Evaluating the Alzheimer's Score for Lost City (26810) requires a comprehensive data collection process. This includes contacting local healthcare providers, reviewing publicly available data, and researching community resources. The score itself can be a composite measure, assigning weights to each of the factors discussed above. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might contribute 20% to the overall score, while the availability of mental health resources might contribute 30%.

The final Alzheimer's Score would then be presented as a numerical value or a qualitative rating (e.g., "Poor," "Fair," "Good," "Excellent"). This score should be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology and the specific findings for each factor. The analysis should also identify areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing access to mental health resources.

The analysis also needs to account for the unique challenges faced by rural communities. Transportation limitations, limited internet access, and a higher proportion of elderly residents can all impact access to care. The Alzheimer's Score should reflect these realities and consider strategies for addressing these challenges, such as mobile health clinics, community outreach programs, and initiatives to improve internet connectivity.

Ultimately, the goal of this Alzheimer's Score analysis is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the resources available to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's in Lost City, WV. This information can be used by residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for increased access to quality care. The analysis should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and the availability of resources.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Lost City and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care physicians, mental health resources, and other relevant services, consider exploring the power of **CartoChrome maps**. These interactive maps can provide a clear and intuitive overview of the available resources, helping you to better understand the healthcare ecosystem in your community.