16229, Freeport, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16229, Freeport, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.52 percent of the residents in 16229 has some form of health insurance. 35.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.68 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 16229 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,298 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16229. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,030 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 776 health care providers accessible to residents in 16229, Freeport, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Freeport, PA (ZIP Code 16229)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians and associated resources within Freeport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16229), with a specific focus on their preparedness to address the needs of patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The analysis will consider factors relevant to the "Alzheimer's Score," including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

The cornerstone of Alzheimer's care is the primary care physician. Early detection and management of cognitive decline are crucial. Therefore, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Accurate data on the exact number of primary care physicians actively practicing within 16229 is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can be used. However, this data often requires meticulous analysis to determine the actual number of physicians accepting new patients, especially those with complex needs. A low physician-to-patient ratio, ideally below the national average, suggests better access to care. Conversely, a high ratio might indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. The "Alzheimer's Score" must consider the presence of practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care and cognitive health. This includes assessing whether practices have physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or neurology. Are there certified dementia care specialists on staff, such as nurses or social workers? Do practices utilize standardized cognitive screening tools, such as the Mini-Cog or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), during routine checkups? Practices that proactively screen for cognitive impairment and offer comprehensive assessments will score higher. These practices often have established protocols for referring patients to specialists, such as neurologists or neuropsychologists, for further evaluation and treatment.

Telemedicine offers a significant advantage in the context of Alzheimer's care, particularly in rural areas like Freeport. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, provide remote monitoring, and facilitate virtual consultations with family members. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for routine checkups, medication management, and even cognitive assessments, will receive a higher score. The "Alzheimer's Score" must also evaluate the availability of telehealth platforms that are user-friendly for older adults and their caregivers, including those with limited technological literacy.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the "Alzheimer's Score." Alzheimer's disease often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists is essential for managing these conditions and providing comprehensive care. The analysis must assess the number of mental health professionals practicing within the 16229 ZIP code and their capacity to accept new patients. Are there any specialized mental health services for older adults or those with cognitive impairments? Does the local hospital or community health center offer mental health support groups or counseling services for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers? The presence of these resources significantly contributes to a higher "Alzheimer's Score."

Furthermore, the "Alzheimer's Score" should consider the availability of support services for caregivers. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be emotionally and physically demanding. Access to respite care, support groups, and educational resources for caregivers is essential. The analysis must identify local organizations that offer these services, such as the Alzheimer's Association, Area Agencies on Aging, and faith-based organizations. The presence of these resources demonstrates a community-wide commitment to supporting individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

Another important aspect of the "Alzheimer's Score" is the integration of care. Does the primary care practice collaborate effectively with other healthcare providers, such as specialists, home health agencies, and assisted living facilities? The presence of a coordinated care plan, which includes regular communication between providers and a clear understanding of the patient's needs and goals, is crucial for optimal outcomes. Practices that actively participate in care coordination initiatives will receive a higher score.

The analysis should also consider the availability of information and education for patients and caregivers. Does the primary care practice provide educational materials about Alzheimer's disease, its symptoms, and available treatments? Are there opportunities for patients and caregivers to learn about managing the disease and coping with its challenges? Practices that prioritize patient education and offer resources, such as brochures, websites, and support groups, will be viewed favorably.

Finally, the "Alzheimer's Score" should assess the overall accessibility of healthcare services. Are practices located in convenient locations with ample parking? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Are they accessible to individuals with disabilities? These factors can significantly impact access to care, especially for older adults and those with mobility limitations. Practices that prioritize accessibility will receive a higher score.

In conclusion, assessing the "Alzheimer's Score" for Freeport, PA (16229) requires a multifaceted approach. It is necessary to consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health and caregiver support resources, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services. This comprehensive analysis will provide a valuable insight into the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement in the care of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Freeport, PA, and how they relate to the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's, consider using interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can provide a clear geographical representation of physician locations, mental health services, and other relevant resources, allowing for a more informed assessment of the healthcare landscape.