17263, State Line, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17263, State Line, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17263 has some form of health insurance. 25.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.29 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 17263 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 225 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17263. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 112 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,642 health care providers accessible to residents in 17263, State Line, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: State Line, PA (ZIP Code 17263)

This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment for primary care physicians and associated resources within ZIP code 17263 (State Line, Pennsylvania), focusing on factors crucial for supporting individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's disease. This is not a definitive ranking but an overview of available information and potential strengths and weaknesses.

The core of this analysis centers on access to quality primary care, as these physicians often serve as the first point of contact for individuals exhibiting cognitive decline. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for effective management of Alzheimer's, and primary care providers play a vital role in this process. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and integration with mental health resources.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 17263 requires access to real-time, comprehensive data. However, publicly available resources from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can offer insights. These resources provide data on the number of primary care physicians, the population size, and the designation of areas as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). If 17263 is designated an HPSA, it suggests a shortage of primary care physicians, potentially impacting access to timely and appropriate care for all residents, including those with or at risk of Alzheimer's.

The availability of primary care is influenced by several factors. The presence of larger healthcare systems, independent practices, and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) all contribute to the overall accessibility of care. The number of physicians accepting new patients, the hours of operation, and the proximity of these practices to residents are crucial considerations.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Services**

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the specific services offered by each practice. This includes assessing the training and experience of physicians in diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's, the availability of cognitive assessments within the practice, and the referral pathways to specialists such as neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists. Practices that actively participate in research related to Alzheimer's or offer specialized programs, such as memory clinics, would be considered particularly valuable.

Furthermore, the presence of ancillary services is important. Access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's. Practices that have established relationships with these providers, and that offer these services on-site or nearby, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in rural areas, and its adoption within 17263 is a critical factor. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing travel time and facilitating consultations with specialists. Primary care practices that offer telehealth appointments, especially for follow-up visits and medication management, can improve access to care. The availability of telehealth also allows for remote monitoring of patients, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The effectiveness of telemedicine depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, the patient's comfort with technology, and the integration of telemedicine into the practice's workflow. Practices that have successfully implemented telemedicine programs and provide training and support to both patients and providers are likely to have a positive impact on care.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration**

Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. The integration of mental health resources into primary care is therefore essential. Practices that have established relationships with mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, can provide comprehensive care.

The availability of mental health services within the community is also a key consideration. The presence of outpatient mental health clinics, support groups for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, and access to crisis intervention services are all important factors. Practices that actively screen for mental health conditions and have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to address the complex needs of patients with Alzheimer's.

**Overall Assessment and Potential Challenges**

An Alzheimer's Score for 17263 would be determined by weighing these factors. The presence of a sufficient number of primary care physicians, the availability of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to a higher score. Conversely, a shortage of physicians, limited access to specialists, a lack of telemedicine options, and a lack of integration with mental health services would negatively impact the score.

Potential challenges in State Line could include a shortage of primary care physicians, limited access to specialized geriatric care, and the availability of mental health services. The rural nature of the area may present challenges in terms of internet access and access to transportation, which can affect the ability of patients to access care.

**Conclusion**

This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the resources available to support individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's disease in State Line, PA (17263). A more detailed assessment would require access to comprehensive data on physician practices, healthcare utilization, and community resources. The ability to identify and address the specific needs of individuals with Alzheimer's is crucial for improving their quality of life and supporting their caregivers.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in State Line, PA, including physician locations, healthcare facilities, and resource availability, consider exploring interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the distribution of resources, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about accessing and navigating the healthcare system.