17026, Fredericksburg, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17026, Fredericksburg, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.30 percent of the residents in 17026 has some form of health insurance. 36.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.28 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 17026 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 904 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 41 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17026. An estimate of 12 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 504 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,475 health care providers accessible to residents in 17026, Fredericksburg, Pennsylvania.

The task of assessing healthcare quality, particularly concerning a complex condition like Alzheimer's disease, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on "doctors in ZIP Code 17026" and "primary care availability in Fredericksburg," aiming to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" by evaluating key factors influencing care accessibility and quality. While a single numerical score is inherently reductive for such a nuanced topic, this analysis will provide a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in the specified area.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care lies within primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing management of the disease. Fredericksburg, as a geographic area, needs to be examined in terms of its physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating more PCPs per capita, generally suggests better access to care. However, this ratio alone doesn't tell the whole story. The age distribution of the population in Fredericksburg is crucial. A community with a higher proportion of older adults will naturally experience a greater need for geriatric care, including specialized Alzheimer's services.

Within ZIP Code 17026, the specific practices and their approach to Alzheimer's care become paramount. Are PCPs actively screening for cognitive decline during routine checkups? Do they have established protocols for referring patients to specialists, such as neurologists or geriatricians, when memory concerns arise? The presence of these established pathways directly impacts the timely diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's.

Beyond the PCPs, the availability of specialists is critical. Neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists play a vital role in diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing care for individuals with Alzheimer's. The number of specialists practicing within or easily accessible from ZIP Code 17026 is a key indicator of care quality. The proximity of specialized memory care centers or clinics is also a factor. These centers often offer comprehensive services, including diagnostic evaluations, support groups, and medication management.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of the Alzheimer's Score. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, through video consultations or remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The extent to which practices in ZIP Code 17026 utilize telemedicine for consultations, medication management, and patient education should be assessed. Practices that embrace telemedicine are likely to provide more convenient and accessible care.

Mental health resources are also integral to the Alzheimer's Score. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers. Are there readily accessible mental health services within the community, or are patients forced to travel long distances for care?

The presence of support groups and caregiver resources further contributes to the Alzheimer's Score. Alzheimer's disease is a family disease, and caregivers often bear a significant burden. Support groups provide a vital network for sharing experiences, accessing information, and receiving emotional support. The availability of respite care services, which offer temporary relief for caregivers, is also a critical factor. The community's commitment to supporting caregivers significantly impacts the overall quality of care.

Standout practices in ZIP Code 17026 can be identified by examining their specific approaches to Alzheimer's care. Some practices may have a dedicated memory care program, employing specialized staff and offering comprehensive services. Others may have adopted innovative technologies, such as cognitive assessment tools or remote monitoring devices. Identifying these standout practices can provide valuable insights into best practices and serve as a model for other providers.

The quality of care also extends beyond the clinical setting. The availability of community resources, such as adult day care centers, home healthcare services, and transportation assistance, can significantly improve the lives of individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The extent to which these resources are available and accessible within Fredericksburg and the surrounding areas should be considered.

The Alzheimer's Score, in essence, is a composite measure reflecting the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. It is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors that contribute to this score and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fredericksburg and ZIP Code 17026, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful way to visualize and analyze geographic data, providing valuable insights into healthcare accessibility and resource distribution. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a clearer picture of the healthcare environment.