17353, Orrtanna, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17353, Orrtanna, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.34 percent of the residents in 17353 has some form of health insurance. 31.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.75 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 17353 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 623 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17353. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 494 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,732 health care providers accessible to residents in 17353, Orrtanna, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17353 and Orrtanna Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of Alzheimer's care within ZIP code 17353 (Hanover, Pennsylvania) and the availability of primary care resources in the nearby community of Orrtanna, focusing on factors crucial for supporting individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. The analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all vital components in delivering comprehensive Alzheimer's care.

The initial assessment focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 17353 ZIP code and the surrounding areas, including Orrtanna. Primary care serves as the crucial entry point into the healthcare system, and PCPs often play a vital role in early detection, diagnosis, and initial management of cognitive decline. A robust PCP network is the foundation upon which specialized Alzheimer's care is built.

Determining the physician-to-patient ratio in this specific area requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the Pennsylvania Department of Health. This data would reveal the number of PCPs practicing within the defined geographic boundaries and the estimated population they serve. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. However, this raw number alone doesn't paint the complete picture.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of care are critical. This involves evaluating the practices within the area. Identifying standout practices involves assessing their services. Are they accepting new patients? Do they have experience with geriatric care? Do they offer specialized services relevant to Alzheimer's, such as memory screenings or cognitive assessments? Are they integrated with specialists, such as neurologists or geriatric psychiatrists?

Furthermore, the availability of specialized care within the region is paramount. Access to neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists is essential for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing management of Alzheimer's. Proximity to specialized centers or hospitals with dedicated memory care units is a significant advantage. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and respite care services for caregivers also enhances the overall care ecosystem.

Telemedicine adoption represents another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers potential benefits for patients and caregivers. It can reduce travel time, improve access to specialists, and provide convenient follow-up appointments. Practices that embrace telemedicine, particularly for medication management or routine check-ins, are better positioned to serve patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth services can be a game-changer, especially for those in rural or underserved areas.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet essential, component of Alzheimer's care. Both patients and caregivers experience emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and grief. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for providing emotional support, managing behavioral symptoms, and improving overall quality of life. Assessing the availability of these resources within the community, including the presence of mental health clinics, therapists specializing in geriatric care, and support groups, is a key indicator of the community's ability to support Alzheimer's patients and their families.

The analysis of primary care availability in Orrtanna is equally important. Orrtanna's proximity to Hanover means that the primary care resources in this smaller community can supplement the care available in the 17353 ZIP code. The same factors apply: physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The presence of a strong primary care network in Orrtanna can alleviate some of the pressure on the resources in Hanover and increase overall access to care.

When assessing the quality of practices, it is important to consider factors beyond just the qualifications of the physicians. The patient experience is critical. Do practices offer convenient appointment scheduling? Are they accessible to patients with disabilities? Do they have a patient-centered approach that prioritizes communication and shared decision-making? The availability of translation services for non-English speaking patients is another important consideration.

The analysis also considers the availability of community resources. Are there local chapters of the Alzheimer's Association or other organizations that provide support, education, and advocacy? Do local pharmacies offer medication management services or home delivery? Are there transportation services available to help patients get to appointments? A comprehensive network of community resources can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the integration of care. Does the local healthcare system promote collaboration between PCPs, specialists, and other healthcare providers? Are there electronic health records systems that facilitate information sharing? Do practices participate in care coordination programs that help manage patients' care across different settings? Coordinated care is essential for ensuring that patients receive the right care at the right time.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for this area would be a composite of these factors. It would reflect the overall availability, accessibility, and quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families. A higher score would indicate a more robust and supportive care environment. A lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

This analysis, while aiming for specificity, is limited by the availability of data. A comprehensive assessment would require detailed information from various sources, including healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations. Data privacy regulations would also need to be considered.

Ultimately, understanding the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 17353 and the surrounding areas is crucial for improving Alzheimer's care. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers can work together to create a more supportive and effective care environment for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Hanover and Orrtanna? Explore the locations of doctors, primary care facilities, and community resources with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive, data-driven maps to uncover valuable insights.