17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.55 percent of the residents in 17239 has some form of health insurance. 31.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.48 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 17239 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 57 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17239. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 36 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,348 health care providers accessible to residents in 17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis assesses the landscape of Alzheimer's care within the specified geographic parameters: doctors in ZIP Code 17239 and primary care availability in Neelyton, Pennsylvania. This analysis aims to provide an "Alzheimer's Score," a qualitative assessment reflecting the accessibility, quality, and integration of resources for individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. The score considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support.

ZIP Code 17239, encompassing the town of McConnellsburg, is a rural area in south-central Pennsylvania. The demographic profile, with a potentially aging population, underscores the significance of accessible and quality Alzheimer's care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the initial point of contact for diagnosis and management. The physician-to-patient ratio within this ZIP code is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained resources for existing providers. Investigating the actual ratio requires accessing specific datasets, such as those maintained by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state medical boards. However, based on the rural nature of the area, it is reasonable to anticipate a potentially lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban settings.

Primary care availability in Neelyton, a smaller community, is a critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. Neelyton's access to PCPs directly influences the ability of residents to receive timely evaluations and ongoing care. The distance to the nearest primary care facilities, the number of available PCPs, and their capacity to accept new patients are all essential considerations. A limited number of PCPs or long wait times can create barriers to accessing care, particularly for individuals experiencing memory issues who may have difficulty navigating complex healthcare systems.

Standout practices within ZIP Code 17239, or those serving its population, would significantly contribute to a higher Alzheimer's Score. These practices would ideally demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care through several key features. First, a practice should have physicians with specialized training or experience in geriatric medicine or neurology. Second, the practice should offer comprehensive diagnostic services, including cognitive assessments and access to advanced imaging, like MRI or PET scans. Third, the practice should provide care coordination services, such as a dedicated care manager, to assist patients and their families in navigating the complexities of the disease. Finally, the practice should actively participate in research or clinical trials related to Alzheimer's disease, indicating a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in treatment and care.

Telemedicine adoption is an increasingly important factor in assessing the quality of Alzheimer's care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to receive consultations, monitoring, and support from specialists without the need for extensive travel. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for cognitive assessments, medication management, and caregiver support would receive a higher score. The availability of secure video conferencing platforms, remote monitoring devices, and digital health tools are all indicators of a practice's commitment to leveraging technology to improve patient care.

Mental health resources are crucial for both patients and caregivers. Alzheimer's disease often leads to behavioral changes, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Caregivers also experience significant stress and emotional strain. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within ZIP Code 17239 and the surrounding areas is a significant factor in the Alzheimer's Score. Access to support groups, counseling services, and respite care programs for caregivers is also essential. The integration of mental health services into the overall care plan, with seamless referrals and coordinated care, is a hallmark of a well-rounded approach to Alzheimer's care.

A comprehensive Alzheimer's Score for this region would require a detailed investigation. The score would be a composite of several factors: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a more coordinated approach to treatment, and a greater emphasis on supporting both patients and their caregivers. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of physicians, expanding access to specialized services, and promoting the integration of mental health resources.

The challenges of Alzheimer's disease are complex, and the need for accessible and high-quality care is critical. The analysis of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17239 and the surrounding areas, including Neelyton, is a crucial step in understanding the availability of resources for those affected by this devastating disease. Understanding these challenges and the resources available is the first step in improving the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape and the distribution of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the location of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized services, and the accessibility of support resources.