17217, Concord, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17217, Concord, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.69 percent of the residents in 17217 has some form of health insurance. 40.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.17 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 17217 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 23 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17217. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 29 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,486 health care providers accessible to residents in 17217, Concord, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17217 & Primary Care in Concord

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 17217, focusing on primary care physician (PCP) access and related services. The parallel consideration examines the broader primary care landscape in Concord, providing a comparative perspective. This analysis aims to offer insights into the preparedness of these areas for the growing needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

ZIP code 17217, encompassing Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, presents a specific demographic profile that informs the analysis. Understanding the age distribution, particularly the percentage of the population aged 65 and older, is crucial. A higher proportion of seniors necessitates a robust healthcare infrastructure equipped to address age-related illnesses, including Alzheimer's. This includes not only the availability of PCPs but also the presence of geriatric specialists, neurologists, and support services.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to timely care. Researching the PCP-to-patient ratio within 17217 is essential. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide this crucial information. This data should be compared against state and national averages to assess the relative adequacy of physician availability.

Beyond simple numbers, the types of practices available in 17217 are significant. Are there large group practices, smaller independent clinics, or a mix of both? Larger practices often have the resources to offer a wider range of services, including on-site diagnostic testing and specialized care. The presence of practices with a focus on geriatric care or those actively participating in Alzheimer's research or clinical trials is a positive indicator. Identifying practices with a demonstrable commitment to dementia care, perhaps through specialized training for staff or designated memory care programs, is critical.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations and remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine among PCPs in 17217 is important. Are providers offering virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication management, or initial consultations? The availability of telehealth platforms that are user-friendly and accessible to older adults is a significant advantage.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is crucial. Identifying the presence of these specialists within 17217, and their willingness to work with patients with dementia, is paramount. Furthermore, access to support groups and counseling services for both patients and caregivers is essential for overall well-being.

The analysis extends to the broader primary care landscape in Concord. While not directly focused on a specific ZIP code, this comparative perspective offers valuable context. Concord, as a potential point of comparison, allows for an assessment of best practices and areas where 17217 could improve. Examining the physician-to-patient ratio in Concord, the types of practices available, and the adoption of telemedicine provides a benchmark against which to evaluate the healthcare resources in Chambersburg.

The primary care availability in Concord should be assessed using the same criteria as 17217. This includes the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of geriatric specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Comparing the findings in Concord with those in 17217 can highlight potential disparities and identify areas where Chambersburg might benefit from adopting successful strategies.

Standout practices within both areas should be identified. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's. This could include practices that have implemented innovative programs, such as memory cafes, caregiver support groups, or specialized training for staff. Highlighting these exemplary practices can serve as a model for other providers and encourage the adoption of best practices.

The analysis should also consider the availability of community resources. This includes access to adult day care centers, respite care services, and home healthcare agencies. These resources are crucial for supporting both patients and their caregivers, allowing them to maintain quality of life and manage the challenges of Alzheimer's. Investigating the availability and accessibility of these resources within 17217 and Concord is essential.

The analysis of mental health resources must be detailed. Are there specialized memory care units within local hospitals or nursing homes? Do local mental health providers have experience treating patients with dementia and their families? The availability of these resources can significantly impact the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's.

The overall assessment should consider the degree to which healthcare providers in both 17217 and Concord are collaborating with other organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association or local support groups. Collaboration can lead to improved care coordination, access to resources, and patient outcomes.

In conclusion, a comprehensive Alzheimer's Score analysis for 17217 and a comparative assessment of primary care in Concord require a multi-faceted approach. This involves assessing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the types of practices available, examining telemedicine adoption, and analyzing the availability of mental health and community resources. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure in these areas, we can identify areas for improvement and advocate for policies that support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 17217 and Concord, including physician locations, practice types, and resource availability, explore the power of spatial data analysis. **Visit CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the healthcare resources in your area.**