16837, Glen Richey, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16837, Glen Richey, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16837 has some form of health insurance. 89.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 17.82 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 16837 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 24 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16837. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 12 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 677 health care providers accessible to residents in 16837, Glen Richey, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16837 & Primary Care in Glen Richey

Analyzing healthcare access and resources related to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 16837 (which encompasses parts of Clearfield, Pennsylvania, including Glen Richey) requires a multi-faceted approach. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the integration of mental health services, and the adoption of telemedicine are crucial factors influencing the quality of care for individuals and families grappling with this devastating illness. This analysis aims to assess the current landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and providing a framework for improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 16837 is a critical starting point. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Department of Health & Human Services. However, based on general demographic data for Clearfield County, it's reasonable to assume that the ratio may be strained. Rural areas often face physician shortages, making it challenging for residents to access timely and consistent primary care. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's.

The primary care physician is often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. They are responsible for initial assessments, referrals to specialists (like neurologists or geriatricians), and ongoing management of the patient's overall health. The availability of PCPs in Glen Richey, specifically, is vital. If residents must travel long distances for primary care, it creates significant barriers, especially for those with mobility issues or early-stage Alzheimer's. This geographical constraint necessitates a robust assessment of the current PCP presence, their acceptance of new patients, and their capacity to handle the increasing needs of an aging population.

Standout practices in the area, if any, should be identified. These practices might exhibit exemplary care models, such as specialized memory clinics, comprehensive geriatric assessments, or integrated mental health services. Identifying these practices is essential for understanding best practices and potentially replicating successful models. These practices may also have experience with community outreach programs or support groups, which are invaluable for patients and their families.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical gaps and improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas. Remote consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals can reduce travel burdens and provide timely access to medical advice and support. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption within 16837 requires evaluating the technology infrastructure available, the willingness of physicians to embrace telemedicine, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The emotional and psychological toll of the disease on both patients and caregivers is immense. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is crucial for managing symptoms like depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. The availability of these resources within the community, including access to support groups, counseling services, and medication management, significantly impacts the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's.

The assessment of these factors allows for a comprehensive 'Alzheimer's Score' analysis. The score would be determined by weighting each category (physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources) based on its relative importance. A higher score would indicate better access to care and resources, while a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement. The score would provide a snapshot of the current state of Alzheimer's care in 16837 and Glen Richey, enabling stakeholders to identify priorities for intervention and resource allocation.

For instance, if the physician-to-patient ratio is unfavorable and the availability of PCPs in Glen Richey is limited, the score would be negatively impacted. Conversely, if a practice has a dedicated memory clinic and actively utilizes telemedicine, the score would be positively influenced. The analysis should also consider the availability of specialized services, such as geriatricians, neurologists, and neuropsychologists, as these specialists play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of community-based support services, such as adult day care centers, respite care programs, and home healthcare agencies. These services are essential for supporting caregivers and enabling individuals with Alzheimer's to remain in their homes for as long as possible. The presence and accessibility of these services significantly impact the overall quality of care and the well-being of both patients and their families.

The analysis should also consider the role of hospitals and long-term care facilities in providing Alzheimer's care. The presence of specialized units or programs within these facilities can enhance the quality of care for individuals with advanced stages of the disease. Collaboration between hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community-based organizations is essential for creating a comprehensive and integrated care system.

Finally, the analysis should incorporate data on the demographics of the population in 16837, including the age distribution and the prevalence of Alzheimer's. This demographic data is crucial for understanding the scope of the problem and for planning and implementing appropriate interventions. The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that may impact access to care, such as income levels, insurance coverage, and transportation availability.

In conclusion, the 'Alzheimer's Score' analysis for 16837 and Glen Richey is a complex undertaking that requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a clear picture of the current landscape can be created. This data can be used to identify areas needing improvement and to develop strategies for enhancing the quality of care for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

To further visualize and analyze the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and demographic data, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of the healthcare landscape, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of the challenges and opportunities in 16837 and Glen Richey.