15019, Bulger, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15019, Bulger, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.70 percent of the residents in 15019 has some form of health insurance. 45.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.76 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 15019 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 208 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15019. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 405 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,545 health care providers accessible to residents in 15019, Bulger, Pennsylvania.

Alzheimer's Score: 15019 Bulger, PA - A Primary Care Perspective

The assessment of Alzheimer's preparedness within a community requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the primary care landscape in Bulger, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15019), specifically examining the availability and quality of care relevant to Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of crucial mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a realistic 'Alzheimer's Score' reflecting the community's capacity to address the challenges of this debilitating disease.

Bulger, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities. Its rural setting often translates to lower population density, which can affect access to specialized medical services. The success of managing Alzheimer's hinges on early diagnosis, comprehensive care, and ongoing support for both patients and their families. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the frontline in this battle, and their availability and competence are critical.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. While precise data for Bulger alone is difficult to obtain, analyzing broader county-level statistics offers a reasonable proxy. Washington County, where Bulger is located, may face challenges in this area, potentially indicating a shortage of PCPs relative to the population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing physicians, impacting their ability to provide the dedicated time needed for patients with complex conditions like Alzheimer's.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. Within the limited scope of this analysis, specific practice names cannot be definitively ranked. However, the presence of practices emphasizing geriatric care, cognitive assessments, and care coordination is a positive sign. These practices often have physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or neurology, offering a higher level of expertise in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's. The availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as cognitive testing batteries, further enhances their capabilities.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. For residents of Bulger, distance can be a significant barrier to accessing specialized care. Telemedicine offers a solution, enabling patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing travel time and improving access to expertise. The availability of telemedicine services for neurology, psychiatry, and geriatric care is particularly important. Practices that have embraced telehealth are likely to offer more accessible care options for Alzheimer's patients.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease profoundly impacts the mental and emotional well-being of both patients and their caregivers. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups is essential. The presence of these resources within the community, or readily accessible nearby, is a key component of a supportive care environment. This includes access to resources for managing behavioral symptoms, providing counseling for caregivers, and offering support groups for families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's.

The 'Alzheimer's Score' for Bulger, PA (15019) is, therefore, likely to be moderate. The score is impacted by potential challenges in physician-to-patient ratios and the rural setting. The score is elevated by the presence of practices that offer geriatric care, cognitive assessments, and care coordination. The adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources are key factors that can improve the score.

The overall picture for Bulger, PA (15019) suggests a need for continued efforts to improve Alzheimer's care. This includes attracting and retaining qualified PCPs, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and expanding access to mental health resources. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is crucial to building a robust and supportive care environment for Alzheimer's patients and their families.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bulger and surrounding areas, including the specific locations of practices, the availability of specialized services, and the proximity of mental health resources, consider exploring the power of data visualization.

**Call to Action:**

Unlock a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bulger, PA (15019) and surrounding areas. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize physician locations, specialized services, and mental health resources. Explore the geographic distribution of care options and identify potential gaps in access. CartoChrome maps can empower you with the spatial intelligence needed to make informed decisions about healthcare planning, resource allocation, and community support.