16740, Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16740, Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.92 percent of the residents in 16740 has some form of health insurance. 55.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.34 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 16740 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 236 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16740. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 158 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 344 health care providers accessible to residents in 16740, Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Mount Jewett, PA (ZIP Code 16740)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Mount Jewett, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16740), requires a nuanced approach, particularly when assessing its capacity to address the needs of individuals facing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, culminating in an overall "Alzheimer's Score" assessment. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in supporting those affected by this debilitating illness.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests on the shoulders of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Mount Jewett, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Determining the exact number of practicing PCPs within the 16740 ZIP code requires direct investigation, often involving contacting local hospitals, clinics, and physician directories. The number of PCPs, however, is only one piece of the puzzle. The physician-to-patient ratio, calculated by dividing the population of Mount Jewett by the number of available PCPs, provides a more accurate picture of access. A lower ratio generally indicates better access to care, allowing physicians more time to dedicate to each patient, including those with complex needs like Alzheimer's. This is crucial for early diagnosis, ongoing management, and coordinating care with specialists.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care offered by local practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves assessing factors such as physician experience, specialized training in geriatrics or dementia care, and the adoption of best practices. Practices that actively participate in dementia-specific education programs, offer memory screenings, and have established care coordination protocols are highly desirable. Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as social workers, care managers, and memory care specialists, within a practice significantly enhances its ability to serve patients with Alzheimer's and their families. Researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites can provide valuable insights into the reputation and quality of care offered by different practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in healthcare, especially in rural areas like Mount Jewett. Its adoption can significantly improve access to specialists, particularly neurologists and geriatricians, who may not be readily available locally. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and ongoing monitoring, reducing the need for frequent travel and easing the burden on patients and caregivers. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption among local practices involves determining which physicians offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the ease of access to these services for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to expanding access to care and improving patient convenience.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease profoundly impacts not only the patient but also their caregivers, often leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the community is therefore crucial. Access to support groups, counseling services, and respite care options can provide invaluable support to caregivers, enabling them to cope with the emotional and physical demands of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's. Assessing the availability of these resources involves identifying local mental health providers, support groups, and community organizations that offer services specifically tailored to the needs of individuals with dementia and their families.

Synthesizing all these factors allows for the creation of an "Alzheimer's Score." This score is not a single, quantifiable number but rather a composite assessment reflecting the overall capacity of the local healthcare system to meet the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. The score would consider the following: physician-to-patient ratio; the presence of practices with specialized training and care coordination protocols; the adoption of telemedicine; and the availability of mental health resources and caregiver support. A higher score would indicate a more robust and supportive healthcare environment for individuals with Alzheimer's, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement.

For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio, coupled with limited telemedicine adoption and a scarcity of mental health resources, would likely result in a lower Alzheimer's Score. Conversely, a lower physician-to-patient ratio, combined with practices specializing in geriatric care, widespread telemedicine use, and ample mental health support, would result in a higher score. The score should be viewed as a dynamic assessment, subject to change as healthcare resources and practices evolve.

The specific details of the Alzheimer's Score for Mount Jewett (ZIP code 16740) would depend on the data collected through local research. Without direct access to the necessary information, a definitive score cannot be assigned. However, the analysis framework provides a clear methodology for evaluating the local healthcare landscape and identifying areas of strength and weakness in Alzheimer's care.

In conclusion, understanding the healthcare landscape in Mount Jewett, PA, is essential for supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. This analysis provides a framework for assessing the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. By understanding these factors, we can work towards improving the quality of care and support available to those living with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

For a comprehensive, visual representation of healthcare access and resources in Mount Jewett, and across the region, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points to help you better understand the healthcare landscape.