17237, Mont Alto, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17237, Mont Alto, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.38 percent of the residents in 17237 has some form of health insurance. 25.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.32 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 17237 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 348 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17237. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 241 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,629 health care providers accessible to residents in 17237, Mont Alto, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Mont Alto, PA (ZIP Code 17237)

Analyzing the availability and quality of Alzheimer's care within ZIP Code 17237 (Mont Alto, PA) requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll examine physician availability, specifically primary care physicians (PCPs), as they often serve as the initial point of contact for patients exhibiting cognitive decline. We'll also assess the availability of specialized resources, including neurologists, geriatricians, and mental health professionals, all crucial in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. Finally, we'll consider the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services, which can significantly impact the accessibility and quality of care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. In Mont Alto, a rural community, the ratio of PCPs to the overall population is likely a key factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This is particularly concerning for Alzheimer's patients, as early intervention is often crucial. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or similar sources would be needed to accurately determine the physician-to-patient ratio within 17237. This data would then be compared to state and national averages to gauge whether Mont Alto faces a shortage of primary care physicians.

Beyond the raw numbers, the distribution of physicians matters. Are PCPs clustered in a single practice or hospital system, or are they spread throughout the area? This distribution affects access for residents, especially those with limited transportation options or mobility issues. The physical accessibility of practices, including wheelchair accessibility and convenient parking, also impacts patient care. Further, the ability of physicians to accept new patients is a key factor. Practices that are at capacity may not be able to provide timely care, further exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals and families dealing with Alzheimer's.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This includes assessing the experience and training of the physicians, the availability of specialized services, and the overall patient experience. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care often have dedicated staff trained in dementia care, offer comprehensive diagnostic services, and provide support groups for patients and caregivers. Reviewing patient testimonials, if available, can offer insights into the practice's reputation and the satisfaction levels of patients and their families.

Telemedicine adoption is another important factor. Telemedicine, which includes virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Mont Alto. It can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, which can be challenging for patients with cognitive impairments and their caregivers. The availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered (e.g., medication management, cognitive assessments), and the technological infrastructure required to support them (e.g., reliable internet access) must be considered. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely better positioned to serve patients with Alzheimer's, particularly those with mobility limitations or who live far from medical facilities.

The integration of mental health resources is paramount in Alzheimer's care. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who specialize in geriatric care is crucial. These professionals can provide essential support for both patients and caregivers. Close collaboration between PCPs, neurologists, and mental health professionals is critical for providing holistic care. Access to mental health services, including the availability of therapists who accept Medicare or other insurance plans, must be assessed.

Mental health resources in Mont Alto and surrounding areas must be evaluated. This includes the presence of geriatric psychiatrists, therapists specializing in dementia care, and support groups for patients and caregivers. The availability of these resources and their integration with primary care practices are vital for comprehensive Alzheimer's care. The ability of these services to accept Medicare or other insurance plans is also a key factor, as many patients and their families rely on these programs for financial assistance.

In assessing the overall Alzheimer's Score for Mont Alto, we must consider the availability of memory care units and assisted living facilities. These facilities provide specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The quality of these facilities, including the training of staff, the activities offered, and the overall environment, significantly impacts the quality of life for residents. The number of beds available in these facilities and the wait times for admission are also important factors to consider.

The presence of community resources, such as the Alzheimer's Association, is also a key factor. These organizations provide valuable information, support, and educational programs for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. They also often offer support groups, respite care services, and other resources that can help families cope with the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. The accessibility of these resources, including their location and the availability of services in multiple languages, is important.

In conclusion, determining an Alzheimer's Score for Mont Alto requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and the availability of community resources. This analysis is further complicated by the rural nature of the area, which may present challenges to accessing specialized care. A thorough investigation of these factors is essential to understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Mont Alto and to identifying areas for improvement.

For a detailed visual representation of healthcare resources in Mont Alto and surrounding areas, including physician locations, facility locations, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring the CartoChrome maps platform. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing a valuable tool for both patients and healthcare providers. Explore the CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mont Alto.