17364, Thomasville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17364, Thomasville, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.11 percent of the residents in 17364 has some form of health insurance. 36.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.42 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 17364 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 881 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 8 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17364. An estimate of 54 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 640 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,734 health care providers accessible to residents in 17364, Thomasville, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Thomasville, PA (ZIP Code 17364)**

This analysis evaluates the landscape of Alzheimer's care and primary care availability within the Thomasville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17364) area. It assesses the resources available to residents, considering factors crucial for managing this complex disease, from physician access to mental health support. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview, ultimately informing residents and healthcare providers about strengths and areas needing improvement.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care is access to skilled medical professionals. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio within 17364 is critical. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau must be cross-referenced. This involves determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and neurologists practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the population size. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, would negatively impact the "Alzheimer's Score." Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, allowing for earlier diagnosis and more consistent management.

Primary care physicians play a pivotal role. They are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. Their ability to recognize early symptoms, conduct initial assessments, and refer patients to specialists is paramount. The availability of PCPs accepting new patients, and their willingness to engage in comprehensive geriatric care, significantly affects the score. Practices with specialized training in geriatric medicine or memory care would be viewed favorably.

Standout practices within the Thomasville area warrant specific attention. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care is essential. This involves examining their services, such as memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and care coordination programs. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's disease would receive higher marks. Additionally, the availability of support groups, educational resources for patients and caregivers, and partnerships with local organizations like the Alzheimer's Association are crucial indicators of excellence.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to enhance access to care, especially in rural or underserved areas. The availability of telehealth services for primary care visits, neurological consultations, and mental health therapy directly impacts the score. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals would be rated more favorably. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, providing patients with access to specialists and support services without the need for extensive travel.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The disease often brings about emotional and psychological challenges for both patients and their caregivers. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the Thomasville area is assessed. Access to mental health services is crucial for managing symptoms like depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. The presence of specialized mental health programs for individuals with dementia and their families is a positive factor.

Caregiver support is an essential component. Alzheimer's places a significant burden on family caregivers. The availability of respite care services, adult day care programs, and support groups for caregivers directly influences the score. Programs that offer education, training, and emotional support for caregivers are highly valued. A robust caregiver support system can improve the quality of life for both patients and their families, reducing caregiver burnout and improving overall care outcomes.

The assessment also considers the availability of diagnostic tools. Access to advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. The presence of local facilities offering these services is a positive factor. Furthermore, the availability of cognitive testing and neuropsychological evaluations is important for assessing cognitive function and tracking disease progression.

Community resources play a vital role. The presence of local organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association, that offer education, support, and advocacy for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families is essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations can create a more comprehensive and supportive care environment. The availability of transportation services for patients to attend appointments and access support programs is another important factor.

Medication management is a critical aspect of Alzheimer's care. The availability of pharmacists specializing in geriatric medications and the ease of accessing prescription medications are assessed. Practices that offer medication reconciliation services and provide education about medication side effects are viewed favorably. Proper medication management can help to control symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Thomasville, PA (17364) is derived from a weighted average of these factors. Each factor is assigned a weight based on its relative importance in providing quality Alzheimer's care. The score is then presented as a numerical value or a rating (e.g., excellent, good, fair, poor), reflecting the overall quality of care available in the area. The score is dynamic and can change based on improvements or declines in the resources available.

This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of Alzheimer's care and primary care availability in Thomasville. It highlights areas of strength and identifies areas where improvements are needed. The information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to develop strategies to enhance the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

For a visual representation of physician locations, facility locations, and other relevant data points within the Thomasville area, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can help you visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your care.