16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.63 percent of the residents in 16224 has some form of health insurance. 45.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.62 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 16224 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 197 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16224. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 265 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 474 health care providers accessible to residents in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Fairmount City (16224) Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the Alzheimer's care landscape within Fairmount City, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16224) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will assess the availability of primary care physicians, their capacity to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease, and the broader support infrastructure available within the community. We will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors in determining the quality and accessibility of care for this vulnerable population.

The initial assessment reveals a potentially challenging environment. Fairmount City, as a rural community, likely faces the common hurdle of physician shortages. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and increased strain on existing medical professionals. This scarcity can disproportionately impact those requiring ongoing care, such as individuals with Alzheimer's, who often need frequent check-ups and medication management.

Identifying specific physician counts and patient demographics within 16224 is crucial for accurate ratio calculation. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the US Census Bureau, and professional medical organizations are the primary sources. This information should be combined to estimate the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the zip code and then correlated with the population size, including the estimated number of elderly residents, who are at the highest risk for Alzheimer’s.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Fairmount City is essential. This involves evaluating practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care through specialized training, dedicated staff, and a patient-centered approach. These practices often integrate memory care specialists, geriatricians, or neurologists into their teams, providing a more holistic approach to diagnosis, treatment, and support.

These standout practices are likely to have established protocols for cognitive assessments, medication management, and the provision of resources for both patients and their families. They may also participate in clinical trials or research initiatives, contributing to advancements in Alzheimer's care. Identifying these practices requires research, including reviewing online patient reviews, consulting with local healthcare networks, and contacting the Pennsylvania Medical Society.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, offers significant advantages, especially in rural areas. It can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients and their caregivers to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and educational resources. Telemedicine can also facilitate communication between primary care physicians and specialists, enabling better coordination of care.

Assessing telemedicine adoption requires determining which primary care practices in 16224 offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, or access to online patient portals. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a crucial consideration, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine.

The integration of mental health resources is another vital component of Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's disease often co-occurs with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbances. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers.

Evaluating the availability of mental health resources involves identifying local mental health clinics, therapists, and support groups that serve the Fairmount City area. It also requires assessing the level of collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals, ensuring seamless referrals and coordinated care.

Finally, assessing the broader community support infrastructure is crucial. This includes the availability of home healthcare services, assisted living facilities, respite care programs, and support groups for caregivers. These resources provide essential assistance to individuals with Alzheimer's and their families, enabling them to manage the challenges of the disease and maintain a good quality of life.

This assessment involves researching local organizations that provide these services, evaluating their capacity to meet the needs of the community, and assessing their accessibility and affordability. The presence of community-based programs, such as adult day care centers and memory cafes, can also significantly enhance the support network for individuals with Alzheimer's.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's care landscape in Fairmount City (16224) requires a comprehensive analysis. This includes assessing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the integration of mental health resources and community support infrastructure. The information gathered will provide a detailed understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, allowing for informed decision-making and the development of strategies to improve access to care and support for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Fairmount City, including physician locations, access to services, and demographic data, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer an interactive platform to visualize and analyze complex data, providing valuable insights into healthcare access and resource allocation.