17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.47 percent of the residents in 17090 has some form of health insurance. 40.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.95 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 17090 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,092 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 124 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17090. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 988 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 24,084 health care providers accessible to residents in 17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17090 and Primary Care Availability in Shermans Dale**

The assessment of healthcare resources within ZIP code 17090, encompassing Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania, requires a nuanced approach, particularly when considering the needs of individuals and families facing Alzheimer's disease. This analysis evaluates primary care physician availability, mental health support, and the integration of technology, offering an Alzheimer's Score framework to understand the accessibility and quality of care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. In Shermans Dale and the broader 17090 area, the ratio of primary care physicians to the elderly population, a demographic particularly vulnerable to Alzheimer's, is a significant factor. Information regarding this ratio is typically available from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or through data aggregators that track healthcare provider information. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and ongoing care. This is especially concerning for individuals requiring regular monitoring and management of Alzheimer's symptoms.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive geriatric care. These practices often integrate memory screenings into routine checkups, offer specialized cognitive assessments, and provide care coordination services. They might also have staff trained in dementia care, including certified dementia practitioners or nurses with geriatric certifications. The presence of these elements significantly improves the Alzheimer's Score. Identifying these practices often involves researching physician profiles, reviewing patient testimonials, and consulting with local senior centers or advocacy groups.

Telemedicine adoption is a key component of modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Shermans Dale. Telemedicine can improve access to specialists, including neurologists and psychiatrists, who are crucial for Alzheimer's diagnosis and management. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of patients, providing support and guidance to caregivers. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online educational resources, receive a higher Alzheimer's Score. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is also a factor, as it impacts the feasibility of telemedicine services.

Mental health resources are essential for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The disease profoundly impacts both the patient's cognitive function and emotional well-being, and the caregiver's mental and emotional health. The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers in the area is crucial. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, or have strong referral networks to mental health professionals, contribute positively to the Alzheimer's Score. Support groups, educational programs, and respite care services for caregivers are also vital components of a supportive healthcare ecosystem.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a single number but a composite assessment based on these factors. The higher the score, the better the healthcare resources are for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. The score should be viewed as a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape and the ongoing efforts to improve access to care.

Assessing the healthcare landscape in 17090 requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves gathering data on physician availability, identifying practices with specialized geriatric care, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and mapping mental health resources. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and various healthcare directories can provide valuable insights. Local advocacy groups, senior centers, and community organizations can offer valuable information about specific practices and their services.

A critical component of the Alzheimer's Score is the availability of specialists. Neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of Alzheimer's. The proximity of these specialists to Shermans Dale is a significant factor. The ability to access these specialists through telemedicine further enhances the Alzheimer's Score.

The quality of care is also a key consideration. This includes the training and experience of the healthcare providers, the availability of diagnostic tools, and the implementation of evidence-based practices. Practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those offered by the Alzheimer's Association or other professional organizations, demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care.

Caregiver support is an essential element of the Alzheimer's Score. Alzheimer's disease places a significant burden on caregivers, who often face emotional, physical, and financial challenges. The availability of support groups, respite care services, and educational resources for caregivers is crucial. Practices that recognize the importance of caregiver support and provide resources to help caregivers receive a higher Alzheimer's Score.

The integration of technology is another significant factor. Electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and communication between healthcare providers. Patient portals can provide patients and caregivers with access to medical information and facilitate communication with their healthcare team. Practices that embrace technology to improve care delivery and patient engagement receive a higher Alzheimer's Score.

The Alzheimer's Score is a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare resources available in a specific geographic area. It can be used by individuals and families to make informed decisions about their healthcare, by healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement, and by policymakers to develop strategies to enhance access to care. The score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a static measure. It is a dynamic assessment that should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The availability of physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are constantly evolving. The score should be reviewed and updated periodically to ensure its accuracy and relevance.

Understanding the healthcare resources in 17090 is essential for anyone impacted by Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Score provides a framework for evaluating these resources, identifying areas of strength, and highlighting areas where improvements are needed. By considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the quality of care, individuals and families can make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**CartoChrome Maps:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 17090, including physician locations, specialist availability, and mental health resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can help you visualize the Alzheimer's Score and make informed decisions about your healthcare.