17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.44 percent of the residents in 17236 has some form of health insurance. 33.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.28 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 17236 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,682 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17236. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,577 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,717 health care providers accessible to residents in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians and related resources within ZIP code 17236 (Mercersburg, Pennsylvania), with a focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in supporting patients and families dealing with this challenging disease. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health services, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care.

Mercersburg, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The relative size of the population impacts the availability of specialized services, including those specifically focused on Alzheimer's disease. The analysis begins by examining the physician-to-patient ratio, a fundamental indicator of access to care.

Accurately determining the physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing current, verifiable data. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health are primary sources for this information. However, obtaining precise, up-to-the-minute data can be difficult. A general estimation can be made by examining the number of primary care physicians practicing within the 17236 ZIP code and comparing it to the population of Mercersburg. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can signal potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care. Conversely, a higher ratio might suggest better access, although other factors, such as physician specialization and practice size, also play a role.

Beyond simple ratios, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves are critical. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they have experience treating patients with cognitive decline? Are they part of a larger healthcare network that offers specialized services, such as neurology or geriatric care? These factors contribute significantly to the quality of care. Practices with a demonstrated commitment to geriatric care, including specialized training for staff and the implementation of cognitive assessments, would score higher in an Alzheimer's-focused evaluation.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial consideration. The ability to conduct virtual consultations and provide remote monitoring can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate medication management, provide support to caregivers, and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, would receive a more favorable assessment. This includes evaluating the user-friendliness of the platforms used, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease profoundly affects not only the patient but also their caregivers. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges are common among both groups. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is therefore a critical component of comprehensive care. Practices that have established relationships with mental health providers, or that offer on-site mental health services, would be viewed more favorably. The ability to quickly connect patients and caregivers with mental health support can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

Standout practices within the 17236 ZIP code would be those that demonstrate a proactive approach to Alzheimer's care. This includes practices that actively screen patients for cognitive impairment, provide education and support to caregivers, and coordinate care with specialists. Practices that participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's disease would also be considered noteworthy. A commitment to continuing education for staff, ensuring they are up-to-date on the latest advancements in Alzheimer's treatment and care, is another key indicator of quality.

The assessment of primary care availability in Mercersburg must also consider the broader context of the healthcare system. The presence of a local hospital or medical center, and its capacity to provide specialized services, is a significant factor. Does the hospital have a dedicated memory care unit or a neurology department? Are there support groups or educational programs for patients and caregivers? The availability of these resources can significantly impact the quality of care. The proximity to larger medical centers in nearby towns or cities is also a relevant consideration.

In the absence of publicly available, specific data, a general assessment can be made based on publicly available information and anecdotal evidence. This analysis would ideally be supplemented by direct outreach to local practices and healthcare providers. This would allow for a more detailed and accurate evaluation of their services and capabilities.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, would be based on a composite of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of the primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources would all contribute to the score. Practices demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care, the implementation of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services would receive higher scores. The availability of specialized services, such as neurology and memory care units, would also positively influence the score.

The analysis highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to Alzheimer's care, emphasizing the need for accessible primary care, telemedicine integration, and readily available mental health resources. The specific strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Mercersburg can be identified through a detailed assessment of these factors.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mercersburg and surrounding areas, including the locations of primary care practices, specialist offices, and support services, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geographically-based view of healthcare resources, helping you to identify the most accessible and convenient options for Alzheimer's care.