16116, Edinburg, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16116, Edinburg, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.30 percent of the residents in 16116 has some form of health insurance. 44.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.19 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 16116 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 479 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16116. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 742 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,168 health care providers accessible to residents in 16116, Edinburg, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Edinburg, PA (ZIP Code 16116)**

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of Alzheimer's-related healthcare within Edinburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16116), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) accessibility and the broader healthcare landscape. We aim to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for individuals and families navigating this challenging disease. The goal is to offer a clear picture of the resources available and identify potential areas for improvement.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests on the shoulders of primary care physicians. Early diagnosis and ongoing management are critical, and a readily accessible PCP is the first line of defense. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in Edinburg is essential. While precise figures require access to proprietary datasets, we can make some inferences. Lawrence County, where Edinburg is located, has a population of approximately 86,000. If we assume a conservative estimate of 100 primary care physicians within the county, this translates to a ratio of roughly 860 patients per physician. This ratio is higher than the national average, which could indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This higher ratio would negatively impact the "Alzheimer's Score."

Primary care availability in Edinburg specifically is influenced by several factors. The presence of larger healthcare systems in the broader region, such as UPMC and AHN, may provide some access to specialists and resources. However, the geographical distribution of these facilities and the willingness of physicians to accept new patients are crucial. The "Alzheimer's Score" will be affected by the physical distance patients must travel for appointments and the potential for long wait times. A lack of local primary care practices would significantly lower the score.

Beyond simple physician numbers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves the expertise of the physicians in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. Are the PCPs up-to-date on the latest diagnostic guidelines and treatment options? Do they have experience with cognitive assessments and the complexities of managing patients with dementia? This requires a deeper dive into the credentials and training of the physicians in the area. The "Alzheimer's Score" is directly linked to the level of physician expertise.

Standout practices within the Edinburg area, if any, would significantly boost the "Alzheimer's Score." These could include practices that specialize in geriatric care, have dedicated memory clinics, or actively participate in clinical trials related to Alzheimer's. Identifying these practices requires a review of online reviews, patient testimonials, and professional directories. The presence of a well-regarded practice would be a substantial positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. The availability of telehealth appointments for primary care visits, cognitive assessments, and consultations with specialists can improve access to care. The "Alzheimer's Score" will reflect the extent to which local practices have embraced telehealth and its integration into their care models. The ability to conduct virtual visits would be a definite plus.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Caregivers also face significant stress and require support. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial. The "Alzheimer's Score" will be negatively impacted by a shortage of these services. The existence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options for caregivers will also be considered.

The availability of other resources, such as home healthcare services, assisted living facilities, and memory care units, also plays a role in the overall "Alzheimer's Score." These resources provide essential support for patients and their families, allowing them to manage the disease and maintain a good quality of life. The existence of these services would be a positive factor.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Edinburg, PA (16116) would be a composite of all these factors. A high score would indicate a strong healthcare infrastructure with accessible PCPs, experienced specialists, telemedicine options, and robust mental health and support services. A low score would reflect challenges in accessing care, potential physician shortages, and limited resources for patients and their families.

To improve the "Alzheimer's Score," several actions could be taken. Recruiting more primary care physicians, particularly those with expertise in geriatric care, would be a priority. Promoting telemedicine adoption among local practices could expand access to care. Increasing the availability of mental health services and caregiver support programs would be beneficial. Public awareness campaigns about Alzheimer's disease and available resources would also be valuable.

The analysis reveals that while the Edinburg area benefits from proximity to larger healthcare systems, specific challenges exist regarding primary care access and the availability of specialized Alzheimer's care. The "Alzheimer's Score" for this area would likely be moderate, with room for improvement. Further investigation into the specific practices and resources available is recommended to provide a more precise assessment.

For a comprehensive visualization of healthcare resources and a deeper understanding of the landscape in Edinburg, PA (16116), consider exploring interactive maps and data visualizations provided by CartoChrome. These tools can offer valuable insights into physician locations, specialist availability, and access to support services, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.