16673, Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16673, Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.20 percent of the residents in 16673 has some form of health insurance. 32.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.57 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 16673 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,123 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16673. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 958 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 813 health care providers accessible to residents in 16673, Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Roaring Spring, PA (ZIP Code 16673)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within the Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16673) area, focusing on primary care physicians and associated services. The "Alzheimer's Score" is a composite measure, considering factors like physician density, access to specialized care, telemedicine capabilities, and integration with mental health resources. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the support system available to residents managing or at risk of Alzheimer's disease.

The primary care landscape in Roaring Spring presents a specific set of challenges. The area is relatively rural, influencing the availability of healthcare professionals and specialized services. Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial factor. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times, potentially impacting the timely diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's. Publicly available data suggests that the ratio in this area might be less favorable than in more urbanized regions. This underscores the importance of understanding the distribution and capacity of existing primary care practices.

A significant consideration is the distribution of primary care physicians within the ZIP code. Are the practices concentrated in one area, or are they spread out, offering easier access for residents across the community? Proximity to medical facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics, is also critical. Easy access to diagnostic tools, such as MRI and PET scans, is vital for early detection and monitoring of Alzheimer's. The presence of a local hospital, such as UPMC Altoona, offers some reassurance. However, the accessibility of specialized neurology and geriatric services within that hospital system, or in nearby facilities, needs careful evaluation.

Identifying "standout practices" requires an assessment of their specific capabilities. This includes evaluating the training and experience of the physicians, the availability of support staff (nurses, medical assistants), and the adoption of technology. Practices that have physicians with specific training in geriatrics or neurology are particularly valuable. The availability of memory clinics or specialized programs for patients with cognitive impairment is a significant advantage. Furthermore, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and the integration of these records with other healthcare providers can improve care coordination.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients who have mobility limitations or live in remote areas. The availability of virtual consultations with primary care physicians, neurologists, and mental health professionals can significantly improve the management of Alzheimer's. Practices that offer telemedicine services, including remote monitoring capabilities, are more likely to provide comprehensive care. The adoption of telemedicine, however, requires consideration of technological infrastructure, including internet access and the digital literacy of both patients and providers.

Mental health resources are integral to the Alzheimer's Score. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, requiring access to mental health professionals. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who specialize in geriatric care is essential. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also beneficial, allowing for a more holistic approach to patient care. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals can improve the detection and management of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues that often accompany Alzheimer's.

Support groups and community resources also play a vital role. The presence of local chapters of the Alzheimer's Association or other support organizations provides crucial information, education, and emotional support for patients and their families. These organizations often offer caregiver training, respite care, and other services that can improve the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's. The accessibility and awareness of these resources within the community are important factors in the overall Alzheimer's Score.

Analyzing the availability of medication management services is also important. Primary care physicians need to be able to prescribe and monitor medications used to treat Alzheimer's symptoms. The availability of pharmacists who specialize in geriatric medications and can provide medication counseling is another advantage. This includes ensuring that patients understand their medications, manage side effects, and avoid potential drug interactions.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for Roaring Spring, PA (ZIP Code 16673) would likely be impacted by the rural nature of the area. While the presence of a hospital provides a foundation, the limitations in physician-to-patient ratios, the potential challenges in telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of specialized services need careful consideration. The score would be elevated by practices with geriatric specialists, robust telemedicine capabilities, integrated mental health services, and strong connections to community support organizations.

The success of any healthcare system relies on data-driven insights. To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and access points for specialized care within Roaring Spring and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This tool allows for a detailed geographic analysis, helping to identify areas with limited access and inform strategies for improving healthcare delivery.