17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.27 percent of the residents in 17768 has some form of health insurance. 45.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.40 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 17768 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 56 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17768. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 57 health care providers accessible to residents in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Physicians and Resources in ZIP Code 17768 and Primary Care Availability in Shunk

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of resources relevant to Alzheimer's care within ZIP code 17768, and specifically addresses primary care accessibility in the neighboring community of Shunk. The goal is to provide an informed overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape concerning this critical health concern. The analysis incorporates factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health support systems.

The area encompassed by ZIP code 17768, which includes the town of Muncy, Pennsylvania, presents a unique demographic profile. The population is predominantly rural, with a significant aging demographic. This demographic reality necessitates a robust healthcare infrastructure capable of addressing age-related illnesses, including Alzheimer's disease. The proximity of Shunk further complicates the analysis due to the limited access to healthcare in the rural area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures are dynamic, data suggests that the ratio of primary care physicians to residents in 17768 may be below the national average. This scarcity is exacerbated by the aging population, increasing the demand for medical services. The availability of geriatricians, specialists in the care of older adults, is particularly crucial. Their presence is a strong indicator of a community's commitment to addressing the specific needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. The lack of geriatric specialists can create delays in diagnosis and treatment, potentially impacting patient outcomes.

Standout practices within the area, if any, should be recognized for their commitment to Alzheimer's care. This includes clinics or medical groups that have implemented specialized programs for diagnosis, treatment, and support. These programs may include memory clinics, cognitive assessments, and patient education initiatives. The adoption of evidence-based practices, such as early intervention strategies and medication management protocols, is also critical. The absence of such specialized programs, or a reliance on general practitioners without specialized training, would be a significant drawback.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in improving access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may have difficulty traveling. The availability of telehealth services for cognitive assessments, medication management, and support groups is a positive indicator. The lack of telemedicine services would be a significant barrier to care.

Mental health resources are an essential component of Alzheimer's care. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for providing comprehensive care. Support groups for both patients and caregivers are also vital. These groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, receiving emotional support, and learning coping strategies. The presence of robust mental health resources is a strong indicator of a community's commitment to holistic care.

Primary care availability in Shunk, a neighboring community, further impacts the overall healthcare landscape. Limited primary care access in Shunk can place additional pressure on the resources available in 17768. Residents of Shunk may need to travel to Muncy or other nearby towns for primary care services. The quality of care in Shunk, including the availability of preventative services and chronic disease management, can also impact the overall health of the region. The lack of adequate primary care in Shunk would compound the challenges faced by residents of 17768.

The analysis should also consider the availability of community resources. These resources may include adult day care centers, respite care services, and home healthcare agencies. These services provide support for both patients and caregivers, enabling individuals with Alzheimer's to remain in their homes for as long as possible. The presence of these resources is a significant advantage. The absence of these resources would place an additional burden on caregivers and limit the options available for patients.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for the region is based on the composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with a strong healthcare infrastructure, including a sufficient number of physicians, specialized programs, telemedicine services, and mental health resources. A low score would indicate a community with limited resources, potentially leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment, and ultimately, poorer patient outcomes. The specific score would depend on the relative weight assigned to each factor.

The analysis should conclude with a summary of the findings, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in 17768 and Shunk. It should also provide recommendations for improvement, such as increasing the number of physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and strengthening mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear and concise overview of the current situation, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions about how to improve Alzheimer's care in the region.

For a visual representation of healthcare access in this region, and to explore the geographic distribution of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, interactive visualization of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and demographic data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape.