15461, Masontown, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15461, Masontown, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.48 percent of the residents in 15461 has some form of health insurance. 45.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.28 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 15461 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 862 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15461. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 687 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 535 health care providers accessible to residents in 15461, Masontown, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care within the Masontown, PA (ZIP Code 15461) area, focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, examining telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an Alzheimer's Score-informed perspective, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to assist residents in navigating healthcare options.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access to care. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) can signal potential difficulties in scheduling appointments, longer wait times, and less individualized attention. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and local hospital systems like WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital, is used to estimate the physician-to-patient ratio within the 15461 ZIP code. This data is analyzed alongside population figures from the U.S. Census Bureau. A lower ratio, indicating greater physician availability, would positively influence the Alzheimer's Score.

Standout practices are identified by examining several key factors. These include the presence of board-certified geriatricians or physicians with specialized training in dementia care, the availability of comprehensive memory evaluations, and the implementation of care coordination programs. Reviews from patients, as available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, are also considered, focusing on patient satisfaction, communication, and the quality of care provided. Practices demonstrating excellence in these areas would receive higher marks, contributing to a better Alzheimer's Score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those residing in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, is assessed. Practices offering telemedicine options are given a higher score, recognizing the convenience and accessibility these services provide. Data is gathered from practice websites, insurance provider directories, and direct inquiries to local providers to determine the extent of telemedicine integration.

Mental health resources are crucial for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. The analysis considers the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) within the service area. The presence of support groups, memory care programs, and counseling services specifically designed for individuals with dementia and their families is also evaluated. The proximity of these resources, as well as their accessibility (e.g., accepting new patients, insurance coverage), significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a single, numerical value. Instead, it's a composite assessment based on the factors described above. Each factor is weighted based on its relative importance in providing quality Alzheimer's care. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of specialized geriatric care may carry a higher weight than the availability of telemedicine. The overall score reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Masontown, providing a framework for understanding the challenges and opportunities for Alzheimer's care in the community.

Analyzing the 15461 ZIP code, the evaluation might reveal that the physician-to-patient ratio is somewhat higher than the state average, suggesting potential challenges in accessing primary care appointments. However, a local practice, for instance, might stand out for its dedicated memory care clinic, offering comprehensive evaluations and care coordination services. This would positively influence the Alzheimer's Score. The practice's adoption of telemedicine for follow-up appointments and medication management would further enhance its score.

The availability of mental health resources in the area could be identified as a potential area for improvement. While there might be some mental health professionals serving the area, the analysis might show that the number of specialists specifically trained in dementia care is limited. The availability of support groups and caregiver resources might also be restricted. This would negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score, highlighting a need for increased investment in mental health services.

The analysis would also consider the proximity of these resources. Even if specialized care exists, its accessibility is limited if it is located a significant distance away, creating travel burdens for patients and caregivers. The availability of transportation services for medical appointments is another factor that would be considered. The Alzheimer's Score would reflect the impact of these geographical and logistical challenges.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for Masontown, PA, would be a nuanced assessment, reflecting the interplay of these various factors. It would not be a simplistic "good" or "bad" rating. Instead, it would provide a detailed picture of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. This detailed analysis would provide valuable information for residents seeking Alzheimer's care, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare options.

The analysis also considers the impact of insurance coverage. The acceptance of Medicare, Medicaid, and other insurance plans is a crucial factor in determining access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans are given a higher score, recognizing the importance of financial accessibility. The availability of financial assistance programs for those who are uninsured or underinsured is also considered.

The assessment of telemedicine adoption goes beyond simply offering virtual appointments. It also evaluates the integration of telehealth into the overall care plan. Does the practice utilize remote monitoring devices? Does it provide patients with access to online portals for managing their health information? The degree to which telemedicine is integrated into the patient's care experience influences the Alzheimer's Score.

The availability of educational resources for patients and caregivers is another important consideration. Practices that offer educational materials, workshops, and support groups are given a higher score. This reflects the importance of empowering patients and caregivers with the knowledge and skills they need to manage the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

The analysis also considers the role of community partnerships. Practices that collaborate with local organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association or senior centers, are given a higher score. These partnerships can help to expand access to care, provide additional support services, and raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for Masontown, PA (15461) provides a comprehensive evaluation of the primary care landscape, considering factors that directly impact the quality of Alzheimer's care. It highlights strengths, identifies areas for improvement, and provides valuable information for residents and healthcare providers.

For a visual representation of this data, including the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and the accessibility of services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Masontown and surrounding areas.