17302, Airville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17302, Airville, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.01 percent of the residents in 17302 has some form of health insurance. 30.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.17 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 17302 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 321 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17302. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 553 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,286 health care providers accessible to residents in 17302, Airville, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17302 and Primary Care in Airville**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning Alzheimer's care, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources within ZIP code 17302 (which includes Airville, Pennsylvania) to determine an Alzheimer's Score. The score reflects the likelihood of residents in this area receiving timely diagnosis, treatment, and support for Alzheimer's disease. It encompasses physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental-health resources.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care begins with accessible primary care. Early detection and management of the disease often rely on the vigilance of PCPs. In ZIP code 17302, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and local healthcare directories, must be consulted. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, this ratio alone doesn't tell the full story. The age distribution of the population in Airville is also relevant. An older demographic necessitates a higher concentration of geriatric-trained PCPs, who possess specialized knowledge of age-related cognitive decline.

To understand the quality of care, identifying standout practices is essential. These practices often exhibit characteristics that improve Alzheimer's care. They may have dedicated memory clinics, staff trained in cognitive assessments, and established referral pathways to neurologists and geriatricians. Practices that participate in clinical trials related to Alzheimer's research are also valuable. Furthermore, a practice’s commitment to patient education and caregiver support is a strong indicator of quality. These practices may offer educational materials, support groups, and counseling services for both patients and their families. Researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and physician profiles can reveal which practices are particularly well-regarded in the community.

Telemedicine adoption has transformed healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Airville. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. For Alzheimer's patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with neurologists, therapists, and other specialists. It can also enable remote monitoring of symptoms and medication management. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption in ZIP code 17302 requires examining the availability of telehealth services offered by local practices and hospitals. The technological infrastructure in the area, including internet access and broadband speeds, also plays a role in the effectiveness of telemedicine.

Mental-health resources are crucial in the care of Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. Access to mental-health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is vital for managing these symptoms. Evaluating the availability of mental-health resources in Airville involves assessing the number of mental-health providers in the area, the types of services they offer, and the waiting times for appointments. Community support groups, such as those offered by the Alzheimer's Association, are also valuable resources for patients and caregivers.

The Alzheimer's Score for ZIP code 17302 will be determined by combining the factors above. A high score indicates better access to care, while a low score suggests potential challenges. The score is not a precise metric, but a holistic assessment. It is based on the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of geriatric specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental-health resources, and the quality of care offered by local practices. This score is dynamic and changes as healthcare resources evolve.

In evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, it is important to consider the distribution of physicians within the ZIP code. If the majority of physicians are concentrated in one specific area, it may create access issues for residents in other parts of Airville. Similarly, the availability of transportation options, such as public transportation or ride-sharing services, can impact access to care. Residents who lack reliable transportation may face significant barriers to accessing medical appointments and support services.

Standout practices may implement innovative approaches to Alzheimer's care. These include using cognitive assessment tools, offering personalized care plans, and providing caregiver training programs. Practices that collaborate with local hospitals and community organizations can create a more integrated and comprehensive approach to care. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can also improve care coordination and communication between healthcare providers. EHRs allow physicians to access patient information quickly and efficiently, which can lead to more informed decision-making.

Telemedicine can be particularly useful for patients who live in rural areas or who have difficulty traveling. It can also be used to provide education and support to caregivers. Telemedicine services may include virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups. The availability of telemedicine services can vary depending on the practice and the patient's insurance coverage.

Mental-health resources are essential for managing the emotional and behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Access to mental-health services can improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Mental-health resources may include individual therapy, group therapy, medication management, and support groups. The availability of these resources can vary depending on the location and the patient's insurance coverage.

The final Alzheimer's Score will reflect the complex interplay of these factors. It is important to remember that this score is just one piece of the puzzle. The best way to assess the quality of Alzheimer's care in a given area is to conduct a thorough investigation of the available resources and services.

For a visual representation of healthcare access and related data in Airville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specializations, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome.