17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.71 percent of the residents in 17324 has some form of health insurance. 37.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.91 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 17324 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17324. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,059 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,042 health care providers accessible to residents in 17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Gardners, PA (ZIP Code 17324)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and resources for Alzheimer's patients in Gardners, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17324) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to assess the availability of primary care physicians, their preparedness for Alzheimer's diagnosis and management, and the overall support system available within the community. This is presented as an "Alzheimer's Score" analysis, evaluating key factors impacting patient care.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with primary care physicians (PCPs). In Gardners, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, should be consulted to determine the current ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, can create significant challenges for patients seeking timely appointments, routine check-ups, and initial screenings for cognitive decline. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to ongoing care management.

Beyond sheer numbers, the expertise of PCPs in Alzheimer's care is paramount. The "Alzheimer's Score" considers the extent to which local physicians are equipped to identify and manage the disease. This includes assessing their training in cognitive assessments, their familiarity with current diagnostic guidelines (such as those from the Alzheimer's Association), and their willingness to refer patients to specialists when necessary. The score will be influenced by the prevalence of PCPs who regularly use standardized cognitive screening tools like the Mini-Cog or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).

Furthermore, the "Alzheimer's Score" incorporates an evaluation of the primary care practices themselves. Are practices equipped with the necessary infrastructure to support Alzheimer's patients? This involves assessing the availability of resources like dedicated staff trained in dementia care, accessible appointment scheduling, and clear communication protocols for patients and their caregivers. Practices with established care pathways, including coordinated referrals to specialists, support groups, and community resources, will receive higher scores.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The "Alzheimer's Score" will reflect the extent to which local PCPs utilize telemedicine for patient consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for Alzheimer's patients, especially those with mobility issues or those living in rural areas, by reducing the need for frequent travel and providing more convenient access to care. Practices embracing telemedicine, particularly those offering remote cognitive assessments or virtual support groups, will contribute positively to the overall score.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The "Alzheimer's Score" will analyze the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the Gardners area. Alzheimer's patients frequently experience mood changes, anxiety, and depression, necessitating access to mental health support. The presence of specialists experienced in geriatric psychiatry and dementia-related behavioral issues will significantly impact the score. Proximity to these resources is a key factor.

In addition to professional care, the "Alzheimer's Score" considers the availability of community support services. This includes the presence of local support groups for patients and caregivers, respite care options, and adult day care facilities. These resources provide crucial emotional support, practical assistance, and opportunities for social engagement, which are vital for maintaining the well-being of Alzheimer's patients and their families. The score will reflect the ease of access to these services and the level of community awareness of their availability.

The specific practices within the 17324 ZIP code require individual evaluation. Certain practices may stand out based on their commitment to Alzheimer's care. For example, a practice that actively participates in clinical trials, offers specialized memory care programs, or has a dedicated dementia care coordinator would receive a higher score. These standout practices serve as models for other providers and can significantly improve the overall quality of care in the community. Identifying these practices is a key component of this analysis.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is dynamic and should be updated regularly. Healthcare landscapes evolve, with new treatments, guidelines, and community resources emerging. The score will be influenced by changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of support services. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the score accurately reflects the current state of Alzheimer's care in Gardners.

The goal is to create a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare ecosystem in Gardners, PA, specifically concerning Alzheimer's care. This analysis is a starting point for identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. By understanding the current state of resources and accessibility, the community can work towards enhancing the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their families.

This "Alzheimer's Score" analysis provides a framework for understanding the complex healthcare landscape in Gardners, PA. The data-driven approach allows for a more nuanced assessment of the available resources and their impact on patient care.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gardners, PA, and surrounding areas, consider using **CartoChrome maps**. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, resource availability, and other relevant data points, making it easier to identify areas of need and assess accessibility.