17223, Fort Littleton, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17223, Fort Littleton, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.61 percent of the residents in 17223 has some form of health insurance. 40.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.55 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 17223 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 64 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17223. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 31 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,341 health care providers accessible to residents in 17223, Fort Littleton, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17223 & Primary Care in Fort Littleton

This analysis evaluates the availability of primary care physicians and associated resources within ZIP code 17223, encompassing the town of Fort Littleton, Pennsylvania, with a specific focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This score is not a single number but a composite understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Determining the exact ratio for Fort Littleton requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). However, a general understanding can be gleaned from national averages. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely primary care, a crucial factor in Alzheimer's diagnosis, management, and ongoing support. If the ratio in 17223 is significantly below the national average, the "Alzheimer's Score" would be negatively impacted. Conversely, a favorable ratio would contribute positively.

Examining the characteristics of primary care practices within the ZIP code is essential. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often offer a broader range of services and potentially better coordination of care. The presence of geriatricians or physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or cognitive disorders is highly beneficial. Their expertise is critical for early detection, diagnosis, and the development of personalized care plans for individuals with Alzheimer's. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's would further enhance the "Alzheimer's Score."

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to access virtual consultations, especially for follow-up appointments or medication management, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals in rural areas like Fort Littleton, where travel distances can be a barrier. Practices that offer telemedicine options, especially for cognitive assessments or medication refills, would receive a positive rating. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the availability of technical support, and the practice's commitment to patient privacy are all important considerations.

The availability of mental health resources within the community is paramount. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups is essential for managing these symptoms and providing comprehensive care. The presence of memory care clinics or centers specializing in Alzheimer's care would significantly boost the "Alzheimer's Score." The accessibility of these resources, including their cost and insurance acceptance, is also a key factor.

Standout practices within the 17223 ZIP code would be those that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. This includes practices that have:

* **Dedicated staff:** Nurses or medical assistants trained in Alzheimer's care and patient communication.
* **Care coordination:** Systems for coordinating care with specialists, such as neurologists, and social workers.
* **Patient and caregiver education:** Providing educational materials and resources for patients and their families about the disease and available support.
* **Community outreach:** Collaborating with local organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association, to provide support and education.
* **Advanced diagnostic capabilities:** Access to cognitive assessments and other diagnostic tools.

The absence of these elements would negatively affect the practice's contribution to the "Alzheimer's Score."

Furthermore, the integration of technology can greatly improve the quality of care. Electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for seamless information sharing between providers, the use of remote monitoring devices to track vital signs and activity levels, and the availability of online patient portals for communication and access to medical records are all positive indicators. Practices that embrace technology to enhance patient care would receive a higher rating.

The evaluation of the "Alzheimer's Score" also considers the availability of support services for caregivers. Alzheimer's disease places a significant burden on caregivers, and access to respite care, support groups, and counseling services is essential for their well-being. The presence of these resources within the community would contribute positively to the score. The cost and accessibility of these services are also important factors.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimer's Score" for the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 17223, specifically concerning primary care availability in Fort Littleton, is a complex assessment. It requires a detailed evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of support services for caregivers. A high score indicates a robust and accessible healthcare system capable of providing comprehensive care for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. A low score highlights areas for improvement, emphasizing the need for increased resources, better coordination of care, and a greater focus on the specific needs of this vulnerable population. The overall score is not a static number but a dynamic representation of the community's commitment to Alzheimer's care.

To further investigate the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 17223 and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice types, and the availability of support services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, providing a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.