16647, Hesston, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16647, Hesston, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.44 percent of the residents in 16647 has some form of health insurance. 34.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.46 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 16647 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 226 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16647. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 153 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,298 health care providers accessible to residents in 16647, Hesston, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians and associated resources within the context of Alzheimer's care in Hesston, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16647). Assessing this requires considering several factors, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for supporting individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Hesston and the surrounding areas is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care physicians, can significantly impact access to timely diagnoses, ongoing care management, and referrals to specialists, all vital for Alzheimer's patients. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or similar sources, would be consulted to determine the current physician-to-population figures. This information provides a baseline understanding of the healthcare landscape.

Standout practices, defined as those demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive geriatric care, are essential. These practices often have physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or cognitive disorders. They may also employ nurses, social workers, and other professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by Alzheimer's patients and their families. Identifying these practices involves researching local healthcare providers' websites, reviewing patient testimonials (if available), and potentially contacting local advocacy groups or support organizations for recommendations. The presence of these specialized practices can significantly improve the quality of care available.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Telemedicine can enhance access to care, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling to appointments. It can be particularly beneficial for those in rural areas or with mobility issues. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups, can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on caregivers. Researching the telemedicine capabilities of local primary care practices and specialist providers is crucial.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, requiring access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. Analyzing the availability of these resources in the Hesston area involves investigating local mental health clinics, hospitals, and community organizations. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and respite care services is also important. These resources can provide invaluable support to both patients and their caregivers, helping them navigate the emotional and practical challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

When evaluating the quality of care for Alzheimer's patients, it is important to consider the degree to which primary care practices collaborate with specialists. This includes neurologists, geriatricians, and other healthcare professionals who are experienced in diagnosing and treating cognitive disorders. The presence of referral pathways and coordinated care plans can significantly improve patient outcomes. This requires examining the relationships between primary care practices and specialists within the local healthcare system.

The availability of diagnostic tools, such as cognitive assessments and imaging services, is also a significant factor. Timely and accurate diagnosis is essential for initiating appropriate treatment and care planning. Researching the availability of these diagnostic services within the Hesston area, including access to MRI, CT scans, and neuropsychological testing, is crucial.

The overall assessment of Alzheimer's care in Hesston, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16647) would require a detailed evaluation of the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the quality of care available. A comprehensive analysis would also consider the availability of diagnostic tools, the degree of collaboration between primary care practices and specialists, and the presence of support services for patients and caregivers.

Based on the information gathered, an Alzheimer's Score could be assigned. This score would reflect the overall quality and accessibility of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease in the area. The score could be based on a weighted system, with each factor assigned a specific value based on its importance. The higher the score, the better the care available.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape for Alzheimer's patients in Hesston, Pennsylvania. This information can be used by individuals, families, and healthcare providers to improve access to care and support for those affected by the disease. Understanding the available resources and identifying areas for improvement is crucial for ensuring that Alzheimer's patients receive the best possible care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hesston, including the location of primary care physicians, specialists, and support services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize geographic data and identify areas with limited access to care.