17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.68 percent of the residents in 17812 has some form of health insurance. 44.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.34 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 17812 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 427 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17812. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 341 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 616 health care providers accessible to residents in 17812, Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: Beaver Springs, PA (ZIP Code 17812)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Beaver Springs, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17812), to assess its preparedness for the growing challenges of Alzheimer's disease requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimers Score," will evaluate the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. It aims to provide a snapshot of the area's capacity to support individuals and families grappling with this debilitating condition.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Beaver Springs, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical starting point. Assessing this involves examining the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code, considering their specialties (internal medicine, family practice), and evaluating the patient load each physician carries. A high physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with patients, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment plans. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a greater opportunity for proactive care and early intervention, crucial elements in managing Alzheimer's.

Within the 17812 ZIP code, identifying standout primary care practices is essential. This requires investigating practices known for their commitment to geriatric care, their experience in managing patients with cognitive impairments, and their adoption of best practices in Alzheimer's diagnosis and treatment. These practices often demonstrate a proactive approach, offering comprehensive assessments, cognitive screenings, and referrals to specialists when needed. Furthermore, they may have dedicated staff trained in dementia care, providing support and education to patients and their families. This investigation must also consider the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and any specialized programs they may offer.

Telemedicine is increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Its adoption within Beaver Springs directly impacts access to care. Assessing telemedicine capabilities requires evaluating the availability of virtual consultations with primary care physicians, neurologists, and other specialists. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms can expand access to care, offer remote monitoring, and provide support to caregivers, all of which are vital components in Alzheimer's management. The ease of access to these telemedicine services, their integration into the patient's care plan, and the technical infrastructure available within the community are critical factors.

Mental health resources play a significant role in supporting individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. The emotional toll of the disease is substantial, and access to mental health services is crucial for managing depression, anxiety, and other related conditions. Evaluating the availability of these resources involves assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups within the area. Access to counseling, medication management, and caregiver support programs are essential components. The coordination between primary care physicians, neurologists, and mental health professionals is also critical to ensure comprehensive and integrated care.

Beyond the immediate medical resources, the availability of community support services impacts the overall "Alzheimers Score." This includes assessing the presence of adult day care centers, assisted living facilities, and memory care units within the region. These services provide respite for caregivers, offer structured activities for individuals with Alzheimer's, and create a supportive environment. The accessibility, affordability, and quality of these facilities directly impact the quality of life for both patients and their families. The availability of home healthcare services, including skilled nursing and personal care assistance, is also a crucial factor.

The overall "Alzheimers Score" for Beaver Springs, PA (ZIP code 17812) is a composite of these factors. It is not a static number but a reflection of the dynamic healthcare landscape. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the community's capacity to manage Alzheimer's. A high score would indicate strong primary care availability, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, robust telemedicine adoption, ample mental health resources, and comprehensive community support services. A lower score would highlight areas for improvement, such as the need to recruit more physicians, expand telemedicine capabilities, increase access to mental health services, and enhance community support programs.

The analysis also requires considering the demographic characteristics of the population within the ZIP code. The prevalence of Alzheimer's increases with age, so understanding the age distribution of the population is essential. A larger elderly population necessitates a greater investment in Alzheimer's-specific resources and services. Furthermore, the socioeconomic status of the community impacts access to care. Factors such as income, insurance coverage, and transportation availability can influence the ability of individuals and families to access necessary medical and support services.

Finally, the "Alzheimers Score" must consider the level of public awareness and education about Alzheimer's. Community outreach programs, educational initiatives, and support groups play a crucial role in raising awareness, reducing stigma, and empowering individuals and families to seek help. The presence of these resources demonstrates a community-wide commitment to addressing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape within Beaver Springs, PA (ZIP code 17812), requires a detailed assessment of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support services. The "Alzheimers Score" is a reflection of the community's preparedness to address the growing challenges of this debilitating disease.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare resources and their geographic distribution within Beaver Springs and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, allowing you to identify areas of strength and areas needing improvement.