17222, Fayetteville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17222, Fayetteville, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.51 percent of the residents in 17222 has some form of health insurance. 44.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.28 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 17222 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,124 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17222. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,828 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,088 health care providers accessible to residents in 17222, Fayetteville, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Fayetteville, PA (ZIP Code 17222)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care services within the 17222 ZIP code, focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease diagnosis, management, and patient support. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This evaluation is not a definitive ranking, but rather an informed perspective based on available public data and general industry trends.

Fayetteville, Pennsylvania, a community within Franklin County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in addressing the needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. The rural nature of the area, coupled with potential limitations in access to specialized care, necessitates a careful examination of the local healthcare landscape.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Primary Care Availability:**

A critical component of the Alzheimer's Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly impacts access to care, especially for a condition requiring regular monitoring and management. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), provides insights into primary care physician (PCP) density. However, this data often reflects county-level averages, which may not accurately represent the situation within the 17222 ZIP code. Further investigation, potentially involving contacting local healthcare providers and analyzing insurance network directories, would be necessary to determine the precise PCP-to-patient ratio within Fayetteville. A higher ratio, indicating a greater number of patients per physician, could negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score, as it may lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care.

Primary care availability extends beyond physician numbers. It encompasses the accessibility of appointments, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the provision of after-hours or weekend care. Practices offering extended hours or telehealth options enhance the Alzheimer's Score, as they provide greater flexibility for patients and caregivers. Conversely, practices with limited appointment availability or restrictive insurance policies may lower the score.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout primary care practices requires a deeper dive into their specific offerings. Practices demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care and memory health are highly valued. This includes physicians with specialized training or certification in geriatrics or dementia care. The presence of dedicated memory clinics or cognitive assessment programs within a practice significantly elevates the Alzheimer's Score.

Another key factor is the practice's approach to patient education and caregiver support. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or resources for caregivers demonstrate a proactive approach to managing Alzheimer's disease. These resources are crucial for empowering families and improving the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Furthermore, practices that collaborate with local Alzheimer's organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association, demonstrate a commitment to community involvement and support.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in improving the Alzheimer's Score, especially in rural areas like Fayetteville. Telehealth allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and minimizing disruptions to their routines. For individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience difficulties with transportation or mobility, telemedicine offers a significant advantage.

The availability of telehealth consultations for primary care, medication management, and even cognitive assessments can dramatically improve the Alzheimer's Score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and secure communication channels, are better positioned to provide accessible and convenient care. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on several factors, including patient access to technology, internet connectivity, and the physician's comfort level with virtual consultations.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

Alzheimer's disease often co-occurs with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbances. The integration of mental health resources within primary care practices significantly enhances the Alzheimer's Score. Practices that have psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers on staff or readily available through referral networks provide a more comprehensive approach to patient care.

The ability to address both the physical and mental health needs of individuals with Alzheimer's is critical for improving their overall well-being. Practices that prioritize mental health screening, offer counseling services, and provide access to psychiatric medications are better equipped to manage the complex symptoms associated with the disease. Furthermore, practices that collaborate with local mental health organizations and support groups demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

**Overall Alzheimer's Score Assessment:**

Based on the available information and general industry trends, the Alzheimer's Score for primary care in Fayetteville, PA (17222) is likely moderate. The rural nature of the area may present challenges in terms of physician density and access to specialized care. However, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers, the potential for telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources can significantly improve the score. Further research, including direct contact with local practices and a more detailed analysis of available resources, is necessary to provide a more precise and nuanced assessment. The commitment of local healthcare providers to geriatric care, memory health, and caregiver support will be crucial in shaping the overall Alzheimer's Score.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Fayetteville, PA, is vital for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. While this analysis provides an overview, the specifics can be complex. To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare resources available in the area, including physician locations, practice specializations, and the availability of support services, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can offer a geographically-driven visualization of healthcare data, enabling you to make more informed decisions about your healthcare options.