17322, Felton, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17322, Felton, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.31 percent of the residents in 17322 has some form of health insurance. 31.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.48 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 17322 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,176 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17322. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 905 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,606 health care providers accessible to residents in 17322, Felton, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Felton, PA (ZIP Code 17322)**

The health of a community is intricately linked to the accessibility and quality of its healthcare providers, particularly when addressing complex conditions like Alzheimer's disease. This analysis focuses on Felton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17322), evaluating the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and assessing the potential support structure for individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's. Our "Alzheimer's Score" is a composite, considering factors crucial for effective care: physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

Felton, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The rural nature of the area can influence access to care, potentially impacting the early diagnosis and ongoing management of Alzheimer's. A crucial starting point is understanding the PCP landscape. The physician-to-patient ratio is a vital metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the US Department of Health & Human Services, can offer insights into these ratios, comparing Felton's figures to state and national averages. A higher ratio, indicating a better physician-to-patient ratio, would contribute positively to the Alzheimer's Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout primary care practices within 17322 is essential. These practices should demonstrate a commitment to early detection and management of cognitive decline. This includes offering cognitive assessments as part of routine checkups, providing patient education materials about Alzheimer's, and establishing referral pathways to specialists like neurologists and geriatricians. Practices actively participating in research or employing innovative care models would further enhance their standing. Reviews from patients, accessibility to care, and a demonstrable understanding of the disease are key.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by primary care practices in Felton is a significant factor in our Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those in the early stages of cognitive decline. It can also be used for remote monitoring, helping to track symptoms and manage medications. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, bolstering the overall score.

The presence of robust mental health resources is another crucial element. Alzheimer's disease often brings about significant emotional and psychological challenges for both patients and their caregivers. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is vital for managing these issues. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and respite care programs within the Felton area contributes positively to the Alzheimer's Score. These resources provide caregivers with much-needed support and can improve the overall quality of life for both patients and their families.

Further, the presence of memory care facilities or assisted living communities specializing in Alzheimer's care within or near Felton is another crucial factor. These facilities provide specialized care and support for individuals with Alzheimer's, offering a safe and secure environment and access to trained staff. The availability and quality of these facilities significantly impact the Alzheimer's Score, reflecting the community's capacity to meet the needs of those affected by the disease.

The Alzheimer's Score is a dynamic measure, subject to change based on evolving healthcare landscape and the specific needs of the community. Felton's score would be positively influenced by a high physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of primary care practices with specialized Alzheimer's care protocols, a high adoption rate of telemedicine, and the availability of comprehensive mental health resources and memory care facilities. Conversely, a low physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to specialists, lack of telemedicine adoption, and scarcity of mental health support would negatively impact the score.

The analysis is not a static ranking, but a snapshot of the current situation. Regular updates, incorporating new data and changes in healthcare practices, are essential to provide an accurate and relevant assessment. This continuous evaluation helps identify areas for improvement and highlights the strengths of the healthcare system in Felton. The ultimate goal is to support the community in providing the best possible care for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Felton, and visually explore the locations of healthcare providers, mental health resources, and memory care facilities, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic, interactive platform for visualizing geographical data, allowing you to pinpoint the locations of critical resources and assess their proximity to residents.