Health Scores Near 17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 89.69 percent of the residents in 17104 has some form of health insurance. 57.42 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 43.15 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 17104 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 7,363 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 55 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17104. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,125 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 20,098 health care providers accessible to residents in 17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
| Alzheimers Score | 67 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 4 |
| Provider Score | 95 |
| Hospital Score | 52 |
| Travel Score | 65 |
| 17104 | Harrisburg | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurological disorder, presents significant challenges for patients, families, and healthcare systems. Early diagnosis and comprehensive care are crucial for managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This analysis examines the landscape of Alzheimer's care within ZIP code 17104 (Harrisburg, PA) and assesses primary care availability, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources, to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment.
The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care lies in accessible and responsive primary care. ZIP code 17104, encompassing a significant portion of Harrisburg, presents a mixed picture. While the presence of major healthcare systems like UPMC and Penn State Health offers a potential for robust care, the actual availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the area is a critical determinant. A low physician-to-patient ratio, where the number of patients per PCP is high, can lead to appointment delays, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnosis or inadequate management of Alzheimer's symptoms.
Assessing physician-to-patient ratios requires analyzing data from various sources, including the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards. Ideally, the analysis would determine the number of practicing PCPs within 17104 and compare it to the population. The national average physician-to-patient ratio serves as a benchmark, with lower ratios generally indicating better access to care. Specific data on the 17104 area, however, is essential for a precise evaluation.
Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are crucial. Practices that prioritize geriatric care, employ staff trained in dementia management, and offer comprehensive services are better equipped to serve Alzheimer's patients. Standout practices might include those with dedicated memory clinics, specialized nurses, or social workers who can provide support to patients and families. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of care and reduce the burden on caregivers. Practices with longer appointment times, allowing for thorough patient evaluations, are also more beneficial.
Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve access to care and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. The integration of telehealth platforms into the primary care setting is a positive indicator of a practice's responsiveness to the needs of Alzheimer's patients.
Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists within the community is crucial for providing comprehensive support. Practices that have strong referral networks to mental health professionals or offer in-house mental health services are better positioned to address the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients. The presence of support groups for patients and caregivers is also a valuable resource.
The "Alzheimer's Score" for doctors in ZIP code 17104 would be a composite metric, incorporating these factors. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more specialized services, and greater integration of telemedicine and mental health resources. The score would be based on a weighted average of the following factors: physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of geriatric specialists, the availability of dementia-specific programs, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health services.
The analysis would then provide an overall assessment of primary care availability in Harrisburg. The evaluation would consider the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system within the ZIP code. The analysis would identify areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and expanding access to mental health services. The analysis would highlight any standout practices that are providing exceptional care to Alzheimer's patients.
The analysis would also consider the impact of social determinants of health, such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and cultural factors, on the availability and quality of care. These factors can significantly influence a patient's ability to access and benefit from healthcare services. The analysis would identify any disparities in care and suggest strategies for addressing them.
The analysis would also consider the role of community organizations and support groups in providing care and support to Alzheimer's patients and their families. These organizations can play a crucial role in educating the public about Alzheimer's disease, providing support to caregivers, and advocating for policies that improve the quality of care. The analysis would highlight the contributions of these organizations and suggest ways to strengthen their role in the community.
The "Alzheimer's Score" is not simply a number; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing quality care for those affected by this debilitating disease. It is a call to action for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to work together to improve the lives of Alzheimer's patients and their families. The score serves as a benchmark for progress and a guide for future improvements.
The availability of accurate and up-to-date information is critical for making informed decisions about healthcare. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability. By utilizing CartoChrome maps, individuals can gain a better understanding of the healthcare landscape in their area and make informed choices about their care.
Ready to explore the healthcare landscape in Harrisburg and gain a deeper understanding of Alzheimer's care availability? Visit CartoChrome maps today to access interactive maps and data visualizations that can help you make informed decisions about your health and the health of your loved ones.
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