15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.24 percent of the residents in 15772 has some form of health insurance. 58.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.29 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 15772 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 350 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15772. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 285 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,086 health care providers accessible to residents in 15772, Rossiter, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Rossiter, PA (ZIP Code 15772)

This analysis delves into the availability of resources and the potential quality of care for individuals in Rossiter, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15772) concerning Alzheimer's disease. The assessment focuses on primary care physician (PCP) availability, considering its crucial role in early diagnosis, management, and referral for this complex illness. We will examine the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight standout practices, evaluate the adoption of telemedicine, and assess the accessibility of mental health resources, all within the context of this rural community.

The initial challenge is the inherent difficulty in accurately assessing the "Alzheimer's Score" of individual doctors. This is because a direct, publicly available metric quantifying a physician's expertise in Alzheimer's is not readily available. Instead, we must rely on proxy indicators: the overall accessibility of care, the availability of resources within the community, and the potential for comprehensive support.

Rossiter, PA, is a small, unincorporated community, and its healthcare landscape is likely shaped by the larger surrounding areas, particularly the city of Punxsutawney and the broader Indiana County. Physician-to-patient ratios in rural areas often pose a significant hurdle. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or similar sources would be crucial to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio in the area and compare it to state and national averages. A low ratio would negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score.

Identifying "standout practices" requires research into the specific medical groups serving Rossiter. This involves examining practice websites, online reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), and potentially contacting local healthcare providers directly. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, offer memory screenings, or have staff trained in Alzheimer's management would be considered more favorably. Look for practices that actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) programs focused on dementia and cognitive impairment. A practice that emphasizes a patient-centered approach, involving families in care planning, would also be a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in this context. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in rural areas to access specialists, participate in support groups, and receive remote monitoring. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on reliable internet access, digital literacy among patients and providers, and the availability of appropriate technology. The Alzheimer's Score would benefit from practices actively utilizing telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations with specialists.

Mental health resources are critical for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), is essential for providing comprehensive care. The availability of support groups, respite care services, and caregiver education programs also significantly impacts the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Score would be positively influenced by the presence of these resources within the community or easily accessible in nearby areas.

Specifically, the analysis must consider the availability of diagnostic tools. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical. Practices should have access to cognitive assessment tools, the ability to order necessary blood tests, and the capacity to refer patients for advanced imaging (e.g., MRI) when appropriate. The existence of a local memory care clinic or a geriatric specialist within a reasonable driving distance would be a significant advantage.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the broader community support network. Are there organizations like the Alzheimer's Association or local chapters offering educational programs, support groups, and resources for families? Does the community have a strong network of home healthcare agencies that can provide in-home support and assistance? These factors contribute to the overall quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers and therefore influence the Alzheimer's Score.

The evaluation of these factors will determine the overall Alzheimer's Score for the area. A higher score would indicate greater access to care, more resources, and a more supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and bolstering mental health services.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for Rossiter, PA (ZIP code 15772) is likely to be influenced by the challenges inherent in rural healthcare. The availability of PCPs, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources are all critical factors. While a precise score requires detailed, localized data, the analysis suggests that a proactive approach to addressing these issues is essential to improve the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's in this community.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Rossiter and surrounding areas, and to identify potential gaps in care, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent physician locations, resource availability, and demographic data, providing a powerful tool for understanding and improving healthcare access in your community.