16835, Fleming, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16835, Fleming, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.06 percent of the residents in 16835 has some form of health insurance. 29.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.88 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 16835 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 55 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16835. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 49 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,834 health care providers accessible to residents in 16835, Fleming, Pennsylvania.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge to healthcare systems, demanding proactive and comprehensive approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. This analysis focuses on the availability of resources and the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's and related dementias within the specific geographic parameters of ZIP code 16835 (covering parts of State College, PA) and the town of Fleming, PA, aiming to provide an 'Alzheimer's Score' assessment. The evaluation considers several critical factors: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informed assessment based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) to the population generally suggests easier access to initial assessments and ongoing care, crucial for early detection and management of Alzheimer's. In the 16835 ZIP code, which includes a significant portion of State College, the presence of a major university and associated medical facilities, such as Mount Nittany Medical Center, likely contributes to a relatively favorable PCP-to-patient ratio compared to more rural areas. However, the specific ratio within 16835 needs to be considered in the context of the area's aging population and the potential demand for specialized geriatric care. Fleming, being a smaller community, likely faces a lower PCP density. Residents may need to travel to State College or other nearby towns for primary care services. This geographical constraint can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those who lack reliable transportation, impacting their access to timely medical attention.

Standout practices in the region are crucial for providing high-quality care. Mount Nittany Medical Center, with its affiliation to Penn State University, is a major healthcare provider. Its resources and infrastructure can include specialized geriatric clinics, memory care units, and neurological services. The presence of neurologists and geriatricians is critical for diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's. A practice that demonstrates a commitment to research, clinical trials, and innovative therapies would be considered a standout. Furthermore, practices that emphasize a multidisciplinary approach, involving physicians, nurses, social workers, and therapists, are vital for comprehensive patient care. The availability of support groups and educational programs for patients and caregivers also enhances the quality of care. The assessment of standout practices would involve evaluating their specific services, patient outcomes, and community involvement.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas and for patients with mobility issues. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, monitoring, and medication management, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The adoption of telemedicine within the 16835 ZIP code and the Fleming area would be assessed by examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local medical practices and hospitals. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring, would receive a higher score. The availability of user-friendly technology and digital literacy among both patients and providers is a critical factor in the success of telemedicine initiatives. The ability to integrate telemedicine with existing electronic health records is also important.

Mental health resources are integral to the care of Alzheimer's patients and their families. Alzheimer's disease often brings about behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is essential. The presence of memory care units or assisted living facilities with dedicated mental health support is also important. Support groups for caregivers provide emotional support and practical advice. The assessment of mental health resources would include evaluating the availability of these services, the accessibility of mental health professionals, and the availability of support programs for patients and caregivers.

Specific to Fleming, the availability of resources is likely more limited than in the larger State College area. Residents of Fleming may need to rely on services offered in State College or other nearby towns. The distance and transportation challenges could exacerbate the difficulties in accessing care. The assessment would focus on the ability of Fleming residents to access the necessary medical and support services. The degree of collaboration between healthcare providers in Fleming and those in the surrounding areas is also an important consideration.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for the 16835 ZIP code would be influenced by the availability of medical professionals, the presence of specialized clinics, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The score would also consider the demographic characteristics of the population, including the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and the age distribution. The score for Fleming would reflect the challenges of accessing care in a more rural setting, considering the proximity to State College and the resources available there.

In conclusion, the care of individuals with Alzheimer's disease requires a multifaceted approach. The availability of primary care physicians, specialized geriatric services, telemedicine options, and mental health resources are all crucial factors. The specific circumstances of the 16835 ZIP code and Fleming, PA, influence the accessibility and quality of care. The presence of a major medical center in the State College area is a significant advantage. However, the needs of residents in more rural areas like Fleming should be considered. To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in these areas, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations available through CartoChrome maps.