17252, Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17252, Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.50 percent of the residents in 17252 has some form of health insurance. 31.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.28 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 17252 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,158 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17252. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 415 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,456 health care providers accessible to residents in 17252, Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17252 & Saint Thomas Primary Care

This analysis delves into the availability of primary care and related resources within ZIP code 17252 (Saint Thomas, Pennsylvania) with a specific focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease management. 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. The analysis will not generate a numerical score but will provide a qualitative assessment of the landscape.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care lies in accessible primary care. In Saint Thomas, this begins with assessing the physician-to-patient ratio. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide estimates of the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the population they serve. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This is especially crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's, who often require frequent check-ups, medication management, and support from their primary care physician.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves are critical. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate the needs of caregivers? Do they have experience in geriatric care? Practices that actively cater to the elderly, with specialized training in geriatric medicine or a focus on chronic disease management, would score favorably in this assessment. It's important to look for practices that emphasize preventative care, cognitive assessments, and early intervention strategies for memory concerns.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can be invaluable for patients with Alzheimer's, particularly those who experience mobility issues or live in rural areas. Telemedicine can facilitate medication management, follow-up appointments, and consultations with specialists, reducing the burden on both patients and caregivers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, will receive a higher score. This adoption demonstrates a commitment to accessibility and patient convenience.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups within the Saint Thomas area is therefore a critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. Proximity to mental health providers, coupled with the ability of primary care physicians to effectively coordinate care with these specialists, is essential. Practices that have established referral pathways to mental health professionals and actively address the mental health needs of their patients will be viewed more favorably.

Identifying "standout practices" involves looking for those that demonstrate a proactive approach to Alzheimer's care. This might include practices that: participate in clinical trials, offer memory screenings, partner with local Alzheimer's support organizations, or have dedicated staff trained in dementia care. Practices that are actively involved in community outreach and education about Alzheimer's would also be considered exemplary. These practices represent a commitment to comprehensive care and a deeper understanding of the disease.

The availability of specialized geriatric care is also a key consideration. Are there geriatricians practicing within or near ZIP code 17252? Geriatricians possess specialized knowledge and training in the care of older adults, including the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease. Their presence significantly enhances the quality of care available. The ability of primary care physicians to readily refer patients to geriatric specialists is also crucial.

Caregiver support is another important factor. Alzheimer's is a disease that places a significant burden on caregivers. The availability of resources like support groups, respite care, and educational programs for caregivers directly impacts the quality of life for both patients and their families. Practices that actively connect patients and caregivers with these resources will receive a higher score.

In the context of Saint Thomas, a thorough analysis would involve reviewing practice websites, contacting local healthcare providers, and consulting with community organizations that serve the elderly. This would provide a more nuanced understanding of the resources available. This analysis would be enhanced by an understanding of the local demographics, including the age distribution of the population. A higher percentage of elderly residents would necessitate a greater emphasis on Alzheimer's care resources.

The overall assessment of the Alzheimer's Score for primary care availability in Saint Thomas (ZIP code 17252) would be based on a synthesis of these factors. The score would reflect the accessibility of primary care physicians, the characteristics of their practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of geriatric specialists, and the support available for caregivers. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape relevant to Alzheimer's disease management.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of these resources and visualize the healthcare landscape in Saint Thomas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and other relevant data, providing a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare ecosystem.