17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.33 percent of the residents in 17044 has some form of health insurance. 44.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.16 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 17044 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,476 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17044. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,943 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,002 health care providers accessible to residents in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on healthcare accessibility and resources related to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 17044 (Lewistown, Pennsylvania) and its surrounding area, with a particular emphasis on primary care availability and related services. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the local landscape for individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's.

Understanding the healthcare environment is crucial for those affected by Alzheimer's. Early diagnosis and ongoing management are critical, and access to qualified medical professionals, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), is the first step. The availability of specialists, support services, and mental health resources significantly impacts the quality of life for patients and their caregivers.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Lewistown, and by extension ZIP code 17044, is a key indicator of accessibility. Data on this metric is often localized to the county level, which is Mifflin County in this case. Mifflin County, like many rural areas, may face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians. National averages suggest a benchmark of approximately 1 PCP per 1,000 residents. However, the actual ratio in Mifflin County could vary depending on factors such as physician distribution, patient demographics, and the presence of large healthcare systems. A lower ratio indicates a potential shortage, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to care.

Primary care availability is directly linked to the ability to receive timely diagnoses and initiate treatment plans for Alzheimer's. PCPs are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. They can perform initial assessments, order necessary tests, and provide referrals to specialists like neurologists or geriatricians. The presence of a robust primary care network, with sufficient capacity to handle the needs of the community, is a fundamental requirement for effective Alzheimer's care.

Standout practices in the Lewistown area could be those that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care and the management of cognitive disorders. These practices may have physicians with specialized training or experience in Alzheimer's disease. They might also offer comprehensive services, including memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and support groups for patients and their families. Identifying these practices requires a review of online directories, patient reviews, and information provided by local healthcare organizations.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. The availability of telemedicine services for Alzheimer's-related care can be a significant advantage for residents of ZIP code 17044. This can include virtual consultations with neurologists, cognitive therapists, and other specialists. Practices that have embraced telemedicine may offer a more convenient and accessible option for patients and their caregivers.

Mental health resources are integral to the care of individuals with Alzheimer's. The disease can cause significant emotional and psychological distress for both patients and their families. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors, is essential. These professionals can provide therapy, support, and medication management to address symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges that often accompany Alzheimer's. The availability of support groups, educational programs, and respite care services also contributes to the overall well-being of those affected.

The local healthcare landscape may be impacted by the presence of hospitals and healthcare systems. These organizations often play a crucial role in providing specialized services, such as neurology departments, memory clinics, and geriatric care units. They can also serve as a resource for information and support. The presence of a well-equipped hospital or healthcare system in or near Lewistown can significantly enhance the quality of care available to individuals with Alzheimer's.

Analyzing the availability of these resources is complex. Publicly available data sources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), can provide some insights into physician demographics, hospital quality ratings, and the utilization of healthcare services. Local healthcare organizations, such as hospitals and medical societies, may also publish information about the services they offer. Patient advocacy groups and online directories can provide additional information about available resources and support services.

The assessment of Alzheimer's care in ZIP code 17044 must also consider the social determinants of health. These factors, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and social support networks, can significantly influence an individual's ability to access and benefit from healthcare services. Understanding these factors is essential for developing effective strategies to improve Alzheimer's care in the Lewistown area.

Caregivers play a critical role in the lives of individuals with Alzheimer's. They often provide round-the-clock care and support, which can be physically and emotionally demanding. The availability of caregiver support services, such as respite care, educational programs, and support groups, is crucial for maintaining the well-being of caregivers and preventing burnout. These services can provide caregivers with the resources and support they need to effectively care for their loved ones.

The overall 'Alzheimer's Score' for ZIP code 17044 would be a composite measure of all these factors. It would reflect the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the availability of caregiver support services. It would also consider the social determinants of health and the overall healthcare infrastructure in the Lewistown area. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lewistown and visualize the distribution of resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can offer a visual representation of physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points, providing a valuable tool for assessing access to care and identifying potential gaps in services.