Health Scores Near 15239, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15239, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 96.12 percent of the residents in 15239 has some form of health insurance. 25.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.23 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 15239 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 4,781 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 201 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15239. An estimate of 171 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,102 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 65,048 health care providers accessible to residents in 15239, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 15239, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| Alzheimers Score | 89 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 49 |
| Provider Score | 88 |
| Hospital Score | 50 |
| Travel Score | 72 |
| 15239 | Pittsburgh | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Pittsburgh Primary Care Landscape (ZIP Code 15239 & Beyond)
Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Pittsburgh, specifically within the 15239 ZIP code, is crucial for understanding the potential support network for individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," considers factors impacting access to care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This holistic approach aims to provide a nuanced perspective on the care environment for those managing this complex neurodegenerative disease.
The 15239 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Fox Chapel and Aspinwall, reflects a demographic profile that may include a higher proportion of older adults, a population group particularly vulnerable to Alzheimer's. Therefore, the availability of PCPs, who often serve as the first point of contact for diagnosis and management, is paramount. While a precise physician-to-patient ratio specific to 15239 is difficult to ascertain without a comprehensive data pull, we can infer a general trend based on broader Pittsburgh data.
Across Pittsburgh, physician shortages, particularly in primary care, are a recognized challenge. This scarcity translates to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care, which is vital for early detection and intervention for Alzheimer's. The "Alzheimer's Score" would reflect this reality, penalizing areas with demonstrably lower physician-to-patient ratios. This is a key indicator of access to care.
Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in geriatric care and patient-centered approaches, significantly influence the "Alzheimer's Score." Practices that actively integrate geriatric specialists, offer comprehensive cognitive assessments, and foster a team-based care model would receive higher marks. These practices often prioritize the specific needs of older adults, including those with cognitive impairments. The ability of a practice to provide coordinated care, connecting patients with neurologists, social workers, and support groups, is a critical factor.
The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element. The "Alzheimer's Score" would recognize practices that leverage telehealth to expand access to care, particularly for patients who may have mobility limitations or live in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring, enhancing the ability of PCPs to provide ongoing support. The ease of access is vital.
Mental health resources are deeply intertwined with Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, requiring integrated mental health support. Practices that have established partnerships with mental health professionals, offer on-site counseling, or provide referrals to specialized services would receive a higher "Alzheimer's Score." The availability of these resources is crucial for managing the emotional and psychological challenges faced by both patients and their caregivers.
Beyond the specific ZIP code, a broader assessment of primary care availability in Pittsburgh is essential. This involves analyzing the distribution of PCPs across different neighborhoods, identifying areas with limited access, and evaluating the overall capacity of the healthcare system to meet the needs of an aging population. The "Alzheimer's Score" would reflect this broader context, acknowledging the systemic challenges and opportunities for improvement.
Specific practices within the Pittsburgh area, though difficult to name without a comprehensive data analysis, might stand out based on their commitment to geriatric care. These practices often prioritize patient education, caregiver support, and the use of evidence-based practices in the management of Alzheimer's. They might also participate in clinical trials or research initiatives aimed at advancing the understanding and treatment of the disease. Their presence would boost the overall "Alzheimer's Score" for the region.
The integration of technology, beyond telemedicine, is also a consideration. Practices utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline communication, coordinate care, and track patient outcomes would be viewed favorably. The ability to share information seamlessly between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers is crucial for effective Alzheimer's management. EHRs can also facilitate the identification of patients at risk for cognitive decline, enabling earlier intervention.
Caregiver support is a critical component of Alzheimer's care. Practices that offer resources for caregivers, such as educational programs, support groups, and respite care services, would receive a higher "Alzheimer's Score." The burden on caregivers is immense, and access to these resources can significantly improve their well-being and the quality of life for both patients and their families. The availability of these resources is a sign of a practice's understanding of the disease.
The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a static measure. It is intended to be a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. It would need to be updated regularly to account for changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the emergence of innovative care models. The score should also consider the impact of healthcare policies and initiatives aimed at improving access to care and supporting individuals with Alzheimer's.
The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for the 15239 ZIP code and Pittsburgh as a whole would depend on a complex interplay of these factors. It is a reflection of the capacity of the healthcare system to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care for individuals with Alzheimer's. It is a complex picture.
For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of primary care physicians, the location of standout practices, and a visual representation of these crucial factors, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.
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