17749, Mc Ewensville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17749, Mc Ewensville, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.11 percent of the residents in 17749 has some form of health insurance. 29.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.50 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 17749 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 79 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17749. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 43 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,292 health care providers accessible to residents in 17749, Mc Ewensville, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17749 and Primary Care Availability in McEwensville, PA**

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, especially concerning Alzheimer's care, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in McEwensville, Pennsylvania, and the broader medical landscape within ZIP code 17749, which encompasses McEwensville and surrounding areas. The goal is to assess the potential for Alzheimer's care, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. This assessment will not be a simple numerical score, but a qualitative evaluation of the existing conditions.

McEwensville, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, directly impacts access to timely appointments, preventative care, and specialist referrals, all critical for early Alzheimer's detection and management. Precise physician-to-patient ratios require current, publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards. However, based on typical rural trends, it is reasonable to anticipate a less favorable ratio compared to urban or suburban areas.

The presence of primary care physicians is the foundation of any healthcare system. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline. They can conduct initial screenings, provide referrals to neurologists or geriatricians for specialized diagnosis, and coordinate ongoing care. The number and availability of PCPs in McEwensville are therefore pivotal. Furthermore, the age and experience of these physicians are relevant. Older, more experienced physicians may have encountered more cases of Alzheimer's and have a deeper understanding of the disease.

Within ZIP code 17749, the characteristics of medical practices are also significant. Are practices solo operations, or part of larger networks? Larger networks, like those affiliated with hospitals or health systems, often have access to more resources, including specialized equipment for cognitive assessments, electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing, and established referral pathways to specialists. The presence of geriatricians, neurologists, or memory care specialists in the area is a strong indicator of a healthcare system prepared to address Alzheimer's. Even if specialists are not directly located in McEwensville, the proximity and ease of access to specialists in nearby towns or cities are important.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers are significant. The ability to have virtual appointments with PCPs, neurologists, or therapists can reduce travel time and costs for patients and caregivers, making it easier to receive ongoing care and support. The availability of telemedicine platforms, the willingness of physicians to adopt them, and the technological infrastructure in the area (internet access) all impact the effectiveness of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and supporting both patients and their caregivers. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care programs can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting is also a positive indicator, as it allows for coordinated care and easier access to mental health support.

The analysis of Alzheimer's care potential within ZIP code 17749 should also consider the demographics of the population. An older population base, which is common in rural areas, increases the prevalence of Alzheimer's and the need for healthcare services. The socioeconomic status of the population can also influence access to care. Lower-income individuals may face barriers to accessing healthcare, such as lack of insurance, transportation challenges, and the inability to afford medications.

The absence of a dedicated Alzheimer's care center or memory clinic within ZIP code 17749 would be a significant concern. These centers provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, treatment plans, and support services for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. Their presence indicates a commitment to specialized care and a higher level of expertise in managing the disease. The availability of these resources in nearby towns or cities would be a positive factor.

In conclusion, assessing the Alzheimer's care potential in ZIP code 17749 and primary care availability in McEwensville requires a comprehensive evaluation of several factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of medical practices, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, and the demographics of the population all play a crucial role. Based on the typical challenges faced by rural areas, it is likely that McEwensville and the surrounding areas face some limitations in access to specialized Alzheimer's care. The availability of primary care physicians and their willingness to screen for cognitive decline are critical. The integration of telemedicine and the presence of mental health resources can significantly improve the quality of care. Further investigation into the specific resources and services available in the area is necessary to provide a more definitive assessment.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare resources in the area, including the location of physicians, hospitals, and support services, we recommend using **CartoChrome maps**. CartoChrome maps can provide a geographic overview of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify potential gaps in care and visualize the proximity of resources.