16656, Irvona, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16656, Irvona, Pennsylvania is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.27 percent of the residents in 16656 has some form of health insurance. 44.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.73 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 16656 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 228 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16656. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 244 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 303 health care providers accessible to residents in 16656, Irvona, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Irvona, PA (ZIP Code 16656)**

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Irvona, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16656), requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when assessing resources for Alzheimer's disease. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, culminating in an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment. The score will reflect the overall preparedness of the community to address the complex needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests on accessible primary care. Irvona, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas. One critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. National averages often serve as a benchmark. If Irvona's ratio significantly exceeds the national average, it indicates a potential shortage of primary care physicians, making it harder for residents to secure timely appointments for initial screenings, ongoing management, and referrals to specialists. The availability of primary care is further complicated by factors such as insurance acceptance, office hours, and the willingness of physicians to accept new patients.

Specific practices within the ZIP code are assessed for their capacity to support Alzheimer's patients. This includes evaluating the presence of geriatric specialists, neurologists, and neuropsychologists. The absence or scarcity of these specialists would negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score. These specialists are crucial for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and managing the complex symptoms associated with the disease. Furthermore, the availability of memory clinics or specialized Alzheimer's care programs within primary care practices or affiliated healthcare systems would positively influence the score. These programs often provide comprehensive services, including cognitive assessments, medication management, caregiver support groups, and educational resources.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. In rural areas like Irvona, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists who might not be locally available. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the extent to which local primary care practices and specialists utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding access to care, which is particularly important for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The disease profoundly impacts the emotional and psychological well-being of both patients and their caregivers. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the community. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options for caregivers would also be factored in. These resources are essential for managing the behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's, addressing caregiver stress, and providing emotional support to families.

The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, is a composite assessment. It considers the availability and accessibility of primary care, the presence of specialized Alzheimer's care providers, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a community better equipped to address the needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. Conversely, a lower score suggests potential gaps in care and the need for community-based initiatives to improve access to services.

Standout practices, if any, would be identified based on their commitment to Alzheimer's care. This could include practices with geriatric specialists, memory clinics, or telemedicine programs. These practices would serve as models for other healthcare providers in the community. Their best practices, such as patient-centered care models, caregiver support programs, and participation in clinical trials, would be highlighted.

The assessment also considers the broader community context. This includes factors such as the availability of transportation services for medical appointments, the presence of assisted living facilities and nursing homes with specialized Alzheimer's care units, and the involvement of local organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association, in providing education and support.

The evaluation of the healthcare landscape in Irvona, PA, is complex. While a direct numerical score is not feasible without in-depth data, the analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the community's Alzheimer's care resources. The Alzheimer's Score is a dynamic measure, reflecting the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to improve the lives of those affected by this devastating disease.

To truly understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, specialists, and support services within and around Irvona, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data discussed, offering a spatial understanding of healthcare access and identifying potential areas for improvement.