17035, Honey Grove, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17035, Honey Grove, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.16 percent of the residents in 17035 has some form of health insurance. 56.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.65 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 17035 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 126 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 41 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17035. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 278 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,583 health care providers accessible to residents in 17035, Honey Grove, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17035 and Primary Care Availability in Honey Grove

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 17035 and the primary care landscape of Honey Grove, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score," a qualitative assessment of the support system available to individuals and families navigating this challenging disease. This score will consider factors like physician access, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health support, all crucial for effective Alzheimer's care.

ZIP code 17035 encompasses the town of Hershey, Pennsylvania, a location known for its medical infrastructure. The presence of Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center significantly influences the healthcare landscape. This large medical center provides a wide array of specialized services, including neurology and geriatric medicine, essential for Alzheimer's diagnosis and management. The availability of specialists, including those with expertise in cognitive disorders, is a major positive factor. The hospital's research focus also suggests access to potential clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments, which can be beneficial for patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio within 17035 is likely favorable compared to rural areas. The concentration of medical professionals associated with the Hershey Medical Center contributes to this. However, the specific ratio for geriatricians and neurologists, the specialists most directly involved in Alzheimer's care, is a more critical metric. Access to these specialists is paramount, as early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective disease management. Delays in diagnosis can significantly impact the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers.

A key aspect of this analysis is the adoption of telemedicine. Hershey Medical Center, being a technologically advanced institution, likely has a robust telemedicine program. Telemedicine can be a game-changer for Alzheimer's patients, especially those with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Virtual consultations can provide access to specialists without the need for frequent travel. Telemedicine also facilitates remote monitoring, allowing physicians to track a patient's progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly. The extent of telemedicine adoption within primary care practices in the area is also a critical factor.

Mental health resources are another critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is vital. The Hershey Medical Center likely offers these services, but the availability of these resources within the broader community is also important. Support groups for both patients and caregivers are essential for providing emotional support and practical advice.

Now, shifting focus to Honey Grove, Pennsylvania, a more rural community, the primary care landscape is likely different. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. The availability of primary care physicians in Honey Grove, and their willingness to screen for cognitive impairment, are critical factors. The physician-to-patient ratio in this rural setting is likely less favorable than in Hershey. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially limit access to specialized care.

The distance to specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, is a significant challenge in Honey Grove. Transportation limitations can further exacerbate this issue. The availability of transportation services for medical appointments, such as those offered by community organizations, becomes increasingly important. The lack of easy access to specialists can delay diagnosis and treatment, which can negatively impact the progression of the disease.

Telemedicine adoption in Honey Grove's primary care practices is particularly important. It can bridge the geographical gap and provide access to specialists who may not be physically present in the community. The availability of reliable internet access is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine. The success of telemedicine hinges on the willingness of both physicians and patients to embrace this technology.

Mental health resources in Honey Grove are also a concern. Rural areas often have limited access to mental health professionals. The availability of mental health services, including counseling and support groups, is crucial for both patients and their caregivers. The lack of these resources can lead to increased stress and caregiver burnout. The availability of home health services, which can provide support for patients in their homes, is another key consideration.

To calculate an Alzheimer's Score, we would consider the following: the availability of specialists (neurologists, geriatricians), the physician-to-patient ratio for these specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the availability of primary care physicians, and the presence of support groups. Hershey (17035) would likely receive a higher score due to its robust medical infrastructure and access to specialists. Honey Grove, with its rural setting, would likely receive a lower score, reflecting the challenges of accessing specialized care.

Standout practices in 17035 might include those actively involved in Alzheimer's research or those with a dedicated geriatric care unit. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and offer comprehensive support services for patients and caregivers would also be highly regarded. In Honey Grove, a standout practice would be one that actively screens for cognitive impairment, provides comprehensive care coordination, and utilizes telemedicine to connect patients with specialists.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for 17035 would be considerably higher than that of Honey Grove, reflecting the disparity in access to healthcare resources. However, both communities would benefit from increased investment in geriatric care, expanded telemedicine capabilities, and enhanced mental health support. The analysis highlights the critical importance of geographic location in accessing quality Alzheimer's care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas with limited access to Alzheimer's resources, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can help visualize physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data points, providing a powerful tool for understanding and addressing healthcare disparities.