16143, Pulaski, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16143, Pulaski, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.05 percent of the residents in 16143 has some form of health insurance. 43.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.99 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 16143 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 253 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16143. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 502 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,653 health care providers accessible to residents in 16143, Pulaski, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Pulaski, PA (ZIP Code 16143)

This analysis examines the landscape of healthcare accessibility and resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within Pulaski, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16143), focusing on primary care physician availability and associated support systems. The goal is to provide an “Alzheimer’s Score” assessment, considering factors crucial for individuals and families navigating this challenging disease. This score will be derived from an evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources.

Pulaski, a small borough in Lawrence County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The area's demographics, including an aging population, necessitate a robust and accessible healthcare infrastructure, particularly regarding chronic conditions like Alzheimer's. Evaluating the quality of care available to residents requires a nuanced understanding of local resources and their capacity to meet the growing needs of the community.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. Unfortunately, precise, up-to-the-minute physician-to-patient ratio data at the ZIP code level is often difficult to obtain. However, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from local healthcare providers, can provide a reasonable estimate. We must look at the broader county and regional data to get a sense of the overall picture. Lawrence County, while not densely populated, may face challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially leading to a higher patient load per physician. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient, which is particularly detrimental for individuals requiring comprehensive care, such as those with Alzheimer's.

Standout practices within the Pulaski area will be assessed based on their commitment to geriatric care, their adoption of innovative treatment approaches, and their integration of support services. Practices with a dedicated geriatric specialist or a physician with a strong focus on geriatric medicine are highly desirable. These physicians often possess specialized knowledge and experience in managing the complexities of Alzheimer's and related dementias. Furthermore, practices that incorporate memory care clinics, cognitive assessments, and care coordination programs are likely to provide superior care. Assessing this involves reviewing practice websites, patient testimonials, and, where possible, direct inquiries to the practices themselves.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Pulaski. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care by reducing travel burdens, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those living in remote locations. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups are considered to be more accessible and responsive to the needs of patients and caregivers. This includes the availability of telehealth for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health counseling.

The availability of mental health resources is critical for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Alzheimer's can cause significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and behavioral changes. Caregivers also experience high levels of stress and burnout. Therefore, access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential. The analysis will evaluate the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and other mental health providers within the Pulaski area and the surrounding region. It will also consider the availability of support groups, respite care services, and caregiver education programs. The proximity of these resources and their ability to accept new patients are key factors in this assessment.

To generate an Alzheimer's Score, the analysis will consider the following: the estimated physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of geriatric specialists or practices with a strong focus on geriatric care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each factor will be assigned a weighted score, with higher weights given to factors deemed more critical to the quality of care. The final score will be a composite measure reflecting the overall healthcare environment for individuals with Alzheimer's in Pulaski.

Based on publicly available data, the Alzheimer’s Score for Pulaski, PA (ZIP code 16143) is likely to be moderate. The area may face challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of specialized geriatric care. However, the presence of dedicated practices and the potential for telemedicine adoption could mitigate some of these challenges. The availability of mental health resources will be a key factor in determining the overall score. A more comprehensive analysis would require detailed information from local healthcare providers and community organizations.

This analysis has provided a general overview of the healthcare landscape in Pulaski, PA. To gain a deeper understanding of the specific healthcare resources available in the area, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps.