16638, Entriken, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16638, Entriken, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16638 has some form of health insurance. 13.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.79 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 16638 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 32 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16638. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 10 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,318 health care providers accessible to residents in 16638, Entriken, Pennsylvania.

Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16638 and Primary Care in Entriken

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare resources, specifically concerning Alzheimer's care, within ZIP code 16638 (which encompasses parts of Huntingdon, Pennsylvania) and the primary care availability in the nearby community of Entriken, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will assess the current state of physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, all crucial factors in providing adequate Alzheimer's care. This assessment will provide a foundational understanding of the existing resources, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-Patient Ratio: A Critical Indicator

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental metric for evaluating healthcare accessibility. In the context of Alzheimer's care, a low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians, can significantly impede timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services indicates that rural areas, like those surrounding Huntingdon and Entriken, often experience lower physician-to-patient ratios compared to urban centers. This disparity can pose challenges for individuals seeking specialized care, including neurologists, geriatricians, and primary care physicians with expertise in cognitive disorders. Specifically, within ZIP code 16638, the availability of these specialists needs to be carefully examined. Are there enough neurologists and geriatricians to meet the needs of the aging population? Are primary care physicians adequately trained and equipped to identify early signs of Alzheimer's? These are critical questions.

Standout Practices: Identifying Centers of Excellence

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key aspects. These include the presence of board-certified specialists, the availability of comprehensive diagnostic services (e.g., MRI, PET scans), the utilization of evidence-based treatment protocols, and the provision of support services for patients and their families. In the Huntingdon area, practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care might include those affiliated with larger healthcare systems or those that have established partnerships with local hospitals and memory care facilities. A practice that excels in Alzheimer's care will likely have a dedicated team of professionals, including nurses, social workers, and therapists, to address the complex needs of patients and their families. The presence of support groups and educational programs also contributes to a practice's standing in the community.

Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Geographic Gap

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to the challenges of healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption can mitigate the impact of low physician-to-patient ratios by providing remote consultations, monitoring, and educational resources. In the context of Alzheimer's care, telemedicine can facilitate regular check-ins with specialists, provide access to cognitive assessments, and offer support to caregivers. Evaluating the telemedicine infrastructure within ZIP code 16638 involves assessing the availability of high-speed internet access, the willingness of local physicians to embrace telehealth platforms, and the integration of telemedicine services into existing healthcare systems. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their Alzheimer's care programs are likely to be better positioned to serve a wider patient population.

Mental Health Resources: A Vital Component

The mental health needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers are often significant. Depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes are common symptoms of the disease, and caregivers frequently experience stress, burnout, and isolation. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups, is therefore crucial. Assessing the mental health landscape within ZIP code 16638 involves identifying the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of counseling services, and the existence of support groups specifically for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. Collaboration between primary care physicians, neurologists, and mental health professionals is essential to provide comprehensive care.

Primary Care Availability in Entriken: A Local Perspective

Focusing on the primary care availability in Entriken requires a closer examination of the local healthcare infrastructure. The presence of primary care physicians who are knowledgeable about Alzheimer's disease is paramount. These physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline, and their ability to recognize early symptoms and make appropriate referrals is critical. Assessing the primary care landscape in Entriken involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians, their training and experience in geriatric care, and their willingness to collaborate with specialists. The proximity of Entriken to Huntingdon, with its potentially greater access to specialists, is also a factor to consider.

Conclusion: A Complex Landscape

The Alzheimer's care landscape within ZIP code 16638 and the surrounding areas presents a complex picture. While the analysis suggests potential challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of specialized care, it also highlights the importance of identifying standout practices, promoting telemedicine adoption, and ensuring access to mental health resources. The success of Alzheimer's care in this area will depend on the ability of healthcare providers to collaborate, leverage technology, and provide comprehensive support to patients and their families. A more detailed, visual understanding of this data can be obtained through mapping tools.

Explore the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 16638 and beyond with CartoChrome maps. Visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and resource availability to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.