26817, Bloomery, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26817, Bloomery, West Virginia is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.91 percent of the residents in 26817 has some form of health insurance. 64.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.15 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 26817 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 232 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26817. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 145 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13 health care providers accessible to residents in 26817, Bloomery, West Virginia.

The following analysis provides an assessment of Alzheimer's care resources and primary care accessibility within the context of Bloomery, West Virginia (ZIP code 26817). This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and availability of mental health support, all crucial elements in managing Alzheimer's disease. This analysis will not be presented as a list, but rather as a narrative.

Bloomery, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The population density is low, which often translates to a scarcity of medical professionals, particularly specialists. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) forms the foundational layer of healthcare, serving as the initial point of contact and gatekeepers to specialized care. The number of PCPs relative to the population is a critical metric. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or interventions.

The evaluation of "doctors in ZIP Code 26817" necessitates identifying the practicing physicians and their specialties. Beyond general practitioners, the presence of neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists is paramount for Alzheimer's care. Neurologists specialize in brain disorders, including Alzheimer's, while geriatricians possess expertise in the healthcare needs of older adults, a demographic most affected by the disease. Psychiatrists are essential due to the frequent co-occurrence of depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges in Alzheimer's patients. The absence of these specialists within the immediate vicinity forces patients to travel significant distances for essential care, adding to the burden on both patients and their caregivers.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive Alzheimer's care. This includes practices that offer early detection programs, cognitive assessments, and care coordination services. The implementation of these services requires specialized training for staff, dedicated resources, and a patient-centered approach. The practices that prioritize a holistic approach, addressing not only the medical needs of the patient but also the social and emotional well-being of the caregiver, are considered superior. These practices often collaborate with local support groups and community organizations to provide comprehensive support.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to care in rural areas like Bloomery. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living far from specialized medical centers. The use of telemedicine for monitoring patient symptoms, providing medication management, and offering counseling can improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. The degree to which practices in 26817 have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the technology utilized, is a key factor in the assessment.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. The emotional toll of the disease on both patients and caregivers necessitates readily available mental health support. This includes access to psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups. The presence of these resources within the community, or easily accessible through referrals, is a crucial indicator of the quality of care. The availability of support groups, specifically designed for caregivers, is particularly important, providing a safe space for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support.

Primary care availability in Bloomery is directly related to the overall health of the community. The presence of a strong primary care infrastructure is essential for early detection, preventative care, and the management of chronic conditions. The accessibility of PCPs, including factors like appointment availability, insurance acceptance, and office hours, significantly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate care. A robust primary care system can also serve as a crucial link to specialized care, facilitating referrals to neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists.

The evaluation of primary care availability also considers the integration of care. This includes the degree to which PCPs collaborate with specialists, share patient information, and coordinate care plans. A coordinated approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive and integrated care, reducing the risk of medical errors and improving patient outcomes. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technologies can facilitate care coordination, allowing healthcare providers to share information and communicate effectively.

The assessment of Alzheimer's care resources and primary care accessibility in Bloomery involves analyzing multiple factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. The presence of standout practices, committed to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care, is a positive indicator. The availability of primary care physicians and their ability to coordinate care with specialists are essential for early detection, prevention, and management of Alzheimer's disease.

In conclusion, the assessment of healthcare resources in Bloomery, West Virginia, reveals a complex picture. While the small size of the community presents challenges regarding access to specialists and comprehensive care, the potential for improvement through telemedicine and increased community support is significant. The availability of primary care physicians forms the foundation for healthcare delivery, and their ability to coordinate care is crucial. The presence of dedicated practices, committed to providing patient-centered care, is a positive sign.

To further explore the landscape of healthcare providers in Bloomery and surrounding areas, including their locations, specializations, and other relevant data, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual and interactive platform for discovering and analyzing healthcare resources, enabling you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.