17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.89 percent of the residents in 17737 has some form of health insurance. 40.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.90 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 17737 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,583 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17737. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,293 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,653 health care providers accessible to residents in 17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Hughesville, PA (ZIP Code 17737)

Analyzing the availability of care for Alzheimer's disease within Hughesville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17737) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors crucial for patients and their families: the density and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs), the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health support. This comprehensive evaluation will culminate in an "Alzheimer's Score," offering a snapshot of the community's preparedness to address the challenges of this debilitating disease.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with the primary care physician. In Hughesville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures require data analysis from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and publicly available physician directories, a general assessment can be made. Hughesville, being a relatively small, rural community, likely faces challenges in physician recruitment and retention. This can translate into a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban areas. A lower ratio might mean longer wait times for appointments and potentially limited access to specialized care.

Primary care practices in Hughesville should be evaluated based on their capacity to manage Alzheimer's patients. This includes assessing their experience in diagnosing cognitive decline, their familiarity with current treatment guidelines, and their willingness to coordinate care with specialists. Standout practices will likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care, including regular cognitive screenings, patient education, and support for caregivers. These practices might also proactively integrate technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing and care coordination.

The availability of specialists is another crucial factor. Neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists are essential for diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. The proximity of these specialists to Hughesville is important. Travel distance can be a significant barrier for patients, especially as the disease progresses. The absence of specialists within the immediate area necessitates travel to larger cities, potentially adding to the burden on patients and their families. The presence of these specialists, and the ease of access to their services, will significantly impact the Alzheimer's Score.

Telemedicine is increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical gaps, allowing patients to consult with specialists remotely. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialist providers in the Hughesville area is a key consideration. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more accessible and convenient care, especially for follow-up appointments and consultations. This can significantly improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers. The extent to which telemedicine is utilized will be a factor in the Alzheimer's Score.

Mental health support is integral to Alzheimer's care. Both patients and caregivers often experience significant emotional distress. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is crucial. The presence of support groups, educational programs, and respite care services is also important. The community's commitment to providing mental health resources directly impacts the well-being of those affected by Alzheimer's. The accessibility of these resources will be a factor in the Alzheimer's Score.

The Alzheimer's Score for Hughesville (ZIP code 17737) will be a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed. A high score would indicate a community with a robust healthcare infrastructure, including a sufficient number of PCPs, easy access to specialists, widespread telemedicine adoption, and comprehensive mental health support. A lower score would reflect challenges in these areas, potentially indicating limited access to care and a greater burden on patients and their families.

Specific practices in Hughesville should be evaluated based on their adherence to best practices in Alzheimer's care. This includes their commitment to early detection, accurate diagnosis, and comprehensive management. Practices that offer cognitive screenings, provide patient and caregiver education, and coordinate care with specialists will be considered more favorably. The specific practices' performance will be a significant factor in the overall score.

The overall Alzheimer's Score will reflect the community's preparedness. It will also highlight areas where improvements are needed. This analysis is not intended to be a definitive assessment, but rather a starting point for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hughesville.

The score will also consider the availability of resources outside of medical care. This includes access to community services, such as adult day care centers, home healthcare agencies, and transportation services. These services can provide essential support for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers, improving their quality of life and reducing the burden on the healthcare system. The availability of these resources will influence the Alzheimer's Score.

Finally, the Alzheimer's Score is a dynamic measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. As new treatments and technologies emerge, and as the needs of the community evolve, the score should be adjusted to provide an accurate reflection of the quality of care available. The score will be updated regularly to provide the most accurate assessment.

In conclusion, assessing the Alzheimer's care landscape in Hughesville requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all play a crucial role in determining the quality of care available to patients and their families. The Alzheimer's Score provides a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the community's healthcare infrastructure.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Hughesville and surrounding areas, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and support services, explore the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data discussed, providing a valuable tool for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.