17578, Stevens, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17578, Stevens, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.74 percent of the residents in 17578 has some form of health insurance. 26.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.92 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 17578 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,440 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 24 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17578. An estimate of 251 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,021 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 20,567 health care providers accessible to residents in 17578, Stevens, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care services in Stevens, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17578), with a particular focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care and support. The goal is to provide an understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive Alzheimer's care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Stevens, 17578, is a critical starting point. Accurate data on this metric requires accessing up-to-date information from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the U.S. Census Bureau, coupled with physician databases. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely primary care appointments, a significant concern for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better accessibility. Analyzing this ratio, along with the specific specialties of available physicians, is essential. Are there geriatricians or neurologists specializing in dementia care? Their presence significantly enhances the local capacity to diagnose, manage, and support individuals with Alzheimer's.

Identifying standout practices within the Stevens area involves evaluating several factors. This includes the size and scope of the practice, the range of services offered, and the practice's commitment to patient-centered care. Practices with electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate care coordination are particularly valuable. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives or have received recognition for their patient care are also noteworthy. Furthermore, the availability of on-site services, such as laboratory testing or physical therapy, can enhance convenience and reduce the burden on patients and caregivers.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like Alzheimer's. Telemedicine offers the potential for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in 17578 is therefore crucial. Practices that offer telehealth options, including video conferencing or remote monitoring, can improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The availability of telehealth also facilitates communication between physicians, patients, and caregivers, fostering a more collaborative approach to care.

Mental health resources are an integral part of Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore a key consideration. Assessing the presence of these resources in the Stevens area involves identifying local mental health providers and evaluating their capacity to provide specialized care for individuals with dementia. The presence of support groups for patients and caregivers is also highly beneficial, providing a platform for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support.

Specific examples of practices within 17578 and their characteristics are vital for a comprehensive analysis. This requires researching individual practices to determine their service offerings, telehealth capabilities, and affiliations with specialists. For instance, a practice with a dedicated geriatrician or a strong partnership with a local memory care center would be considered a standout. The availability of bilingual staff, particularly for Spanish speakers, is also a factor to consider given the demographic makeup of the area.

The overall assessment of primary care availability in Stevens, 17578, for Alzheimer's care is based on the collective evaluation of these factors. The analysis should consider the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape, highlighting areas where access to care may be limited and areas where exceptional services are available. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the resources available to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

The final 'Alzheimers Score' would ideally be a composite score, reflecting the overall assessment of the factors discussed. It would provide a concise and easily understandable measure of the quality and accessibility of primary care services for Alzheimer's patients in Stevens. This score could be presented as a numerical value or a qualitative rating (e.g., "Excellent," "Good," "Fair," "Poor"). The score would be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the rationale behind the rating, highlighting the specific strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Stevens, 17578, for Alzheimer's care is an ongoing process. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new practices opening, existing practices adapting, and new technologies emerging. Regular updates to the analysis are essential to ensure its accuracy and relevance. This includes monitoring changes in physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. It also involves tracking the emergence of new treatment options and support services.

In conclusion, understanding the local healthcare environment is critical for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. The analysis presented here provides a framework for evaluating the availability and quality of primary care services in Stevens, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17578). By considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a comprehensive assessment can be made. This allows individuals and families to make informed decisions about their healthcare and access the support they need.

For a more detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape in Stevens, Pennsylvania, and to explore the locations of physicians, specialists, and support services, visit CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can offer a spatial representation of healthcare resources, allowing for a better understanding of their distribution and accessibility within the community.