17840, Locust Gap, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17840, Locust Gap, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17840 has some form of health insurance. 54.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.69 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 17840 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 71 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17840. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 127 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,473 health care providers accessible to residents in 17840, Locust Gap, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses the quality of healthcare, specifically concerning Alzheimer's disease care and primary care availability, within ZIP code 17840 (Locust Gap, Pennsylvania) and its surrounding areas. The evaluation considers factors relevant to Alzheimer's diagnosis, treatment, and patient support. It also examines the broader primary care landscape, as this is often the entry point for patients experiencing cognitive decline.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access to care. In rural areas like Locust Gap, this ratio is often less favorable than in urban centers. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the US Department of Health & Human Services indicates that rural Pennsylvania, including areas near 17840, faces a shortage of primary care physicians. This shortage directly impacts access to specialists, including neurologists and geriatricians, who are essential for Alzheimer's diagnosis and management.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive Alzheimer's care. This includes early detection programs, accurate diagnostic tools, and a multidisciplinary approach. While specific practice names are difficult to ascertain without detailed, up-to-the-minute data, the presence of a geriatrician or neurologist within a practice is a strong indicator of specialized care. Practices that offer cognitive assessments, memory clinics, and support groups for patients and caregivers are also highly valued. The availability of these resources within the local community is paramount.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly in underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and easing the burden on both patients and their families. Practices that have embraced telemedicine for consultations, medication management, and even remote cognitive assessments are likely to score higher in terms of accessibility. The effectiveness of telemedicine, however, depends on factors such as reliable internet access and the patient's comfort level with technology.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists within the community is critical. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans, or that have established referral pathways to mental health providers, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient well-being. Support groups for caregivers are equally important, as they provide emotional support and practical guidance for those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's.

The availability of memory care facilities and assisted living facilities with specialized Alzheimer's units is also an important consideration. These facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals with advanced stages of the disease. The quality of care within these facilities, including staffing levels, staff training, and the implementation of evidence-based practices, is a key factor in determining their effectiveness.

The overall 'Alzheimer's Score' for the healthcare landscape in and around 17840 would likely be negatively impacted by the rural nature of the area. The physician shortage and the limited availability of specialized care, including neurologists and geriatricians, are significant challenges. The lack of readily available data regarding specific practice offerings, telemedicine adoption rates, and the presence of integrated mental health services makes a precise score difficult to calculate. However, the known challenges suggest a need for increased resources and targeted interventions.

The primary care availability in Locust Gap directly impacts the early detection and management of Alzheimer's disease. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline. Their ability to recognize early signs of the disease, conduct initial assessments, and refer patients to specialists is crucial. The effectiveness of primary care in this role is influenced by several factors, including the physician's training in geriatric medicine, their access to diagnostic tools, and their ability to coordinate care with specialists and other healthcare providers.

The primary care landscape in Locust Gap is further shaped by the availability of support services for patients and their families. This includes access to social workers, home health agencies, and community-based organizations that provide assistance with daily living activities. The coordination of care between primary care physicians and these support services is essential for ensuring that patients receive the comprehensive care they need.

The assessment of primary care availability must also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence access to care. This includes the patient's ability to afford healthcare services, their access to transportation, and their level of health literacy. Addressing these factors is essential for ensuring that all residents of Locust Gap have equal access to quality primary care and Alzheimer's care.

Improving the 'Alzheimer's Score' in 17840 requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes efforts to recruit and retain primary care physicians and specialists, expand telemedicine services, increase the availability of mental health resources, and support the development of memory care facilities. Public health initiatives aimed at raising awareness of Alzheimer's disease, promoting early detection, and providing education and support to patients and their families are also essential.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17840, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of specialized services, and the presence of support resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize and analyze healthcare data, helping you to identify areas of need and make informed decisions about your healthcare choices.