16849, Lanse, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 16849, Lanse, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.22 percent of the residents in 16849 has some form of health insurance. 25.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.11 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 16849 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16849. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 24 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,966 health care providers accessible to residents in 16849, Lanse, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of Alzheimer's care within the context of primary care in Lanse, Pennsylvania, focusing on the geographic area defined by ZIP code 16849. This analysis considers several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing Alzheimer's disease.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In a rural area like Lanse, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population significantly impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and consistent medical attention. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and increased stress on existing healthcare providers. This is particularly concerning for Alzheimer's patients, who require frequent monitoring and management.

The specific physician-to-patient ratio in 16849, and more broadly in Clearfield County where Lanse is located, requires careful investigation using publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau. This data will reveal the number of primary care physicians serving the population and provide a baseline for assessing the overall healthcare landscape. It is important to note that while the overall physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator, it doesn't tell the whole story. The ratio can be skewed by factors such as the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the geographic distribution of physicians within the ZIP code.

Identifying standout practices within the 16849 ZIP code requires a more nuanced approach. This involves evaluating the quality of care provided by existing medical practices. This includes assessing the availability of specialized services, such as geriatric care, memory clinics, and neuropsychological evaluations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care often have dedicated staff trained in the diagnosis and management of the disease. They may also participate in clinical trials or research initiatives, providing patients with access to cutting-edge treatments and interventions.

Furthermore, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technological tools can significantly enhance the quality of care. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information among different healthcare providers, improving coordination of care and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices that have invested in advanced technologies are often better equipped to manage the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing the accessibility of Alzheimer's care in Lanse. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas where access to specialists may be limited. Telemedicine can enable patients to consult with neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists without having to travel long distances. This can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on caregivers. The extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in 16849 should be carefully examined. This includes assessing the availability of telehealth platforms, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the level of patient and provider satisfaction with these services.

The availability of mental health resources is also essential for supporting Alzheimer's patients and their families. Alzheimer's disease often leads to significant emotional and psychological challenges, including depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbances. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and improving the overall quality of life for patients and their caregivers. The analysis should evaluate the availability of mental health services in the 16849 ZIP code, including the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services to residents.

The coordination of care between primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health providers is also essential. Effective care coordination involves the sharing of information, the development of care plans, and the regular communication between healthcare providers. Practices that have established care coordination systems are better equipped to manage the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients. The analysis should assess the extent to which primary care physicians in 16849 are involved in care coordination efforts.

Caregiver support is another crucial element of Alzheimer's care. Family members who provide care for Alzheimer's patients often experience significant stress and burnout. Access to support groups, educational programs, and respite care services can help caregivers cope with the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease. The analysis should evaluate the availability of caregiver support resources in the 16849 ZIP code, including the number of support groups, the types of educational programs offered, and the availability of respite care services.

Public health initiatives and community programs also play a vital role in supporting Alzheimer's patients and their families. These initiatives may include awareness campaigns, educational programs, and early detection programs. The analysis should assess the presence of such initiatives in the 16849 ZIP code and their impact on the community.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of Alzheimer's care in Lanse, Pennsylvania (16849) requires a comprehensive analysis of several factors. These include the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, care coordination efforts, caregiver support resources, and public health initiatives. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing Alzheimer's disease. A thorough assessment of these factors will provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Lanse and inform efforts to improve the quality of care for Alzheimer's patients and their families.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 16849, including physician locations, service availability, and demographic data, explore CartoChrome maps.