17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17861 has some form of health insurance. 28.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.98 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 17861 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 61 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17861. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 28 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,091 health care providers accessible to residents in 17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of Alzheimer's care within ZIP code 17861, specifically focusing on Paxtonville and its primary care resources, requires a nuanced approach. Simply ranking doctors based on a single "Alzheimer's Score" is insufficient. A comprehensive assessment must consider a multitude of factors, including physician availability, access to specialists, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health support, all crucial for managing this complex disease.

Paxtonville, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas. One primary concern is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can significantly hinder access to timely diagnoses and ongoing care. This scarcity can force patients to travel longer distances, adding to the burden on both individuals and their families. To accurately assess this, we need data on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and geriatricians actively practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas accessible to Paxtonville residents. This data needs to be juxtaposed with the estimated elderly population, the demographic most vulnerable to Alzheimer's.

Beyond sheer numbers, the specialization of available doctors is critical. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline. Their ability to recognize early symptoms, conduct initial assessments, and refer patients to specialists like neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists is paramount. The availability of these specialists, either within 17861 or a reasonable driving distance, significantly impacts the quality of care. Without timely referrals, patients may miss opportunities for early intervention, which can slow disease progression and improve quality of life.

Standout practices within the region would demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive Alzheimer's care. This includes practices that actively screen for cognitive impairment during routine checkups, utilize standardized assessment tools, and offer patient education resources. Practices that participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's also deserve recognition, as they contribute to advancing the understanding and treatment of the disease. These practices would ideally have dedicated staff trained in dementia care, such as nurses or social workers, who can provide support to patients and their families.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to the geographical challenges faced by rural communities like Paxtonville. The ability to conduct virtual consultations with specialists, monitor patients remotely, and provide ongoing support through video calls can significantly improve access to care. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local practices is therefore a crucial factor in the "Alzheimer's Score" analysis. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, should be viewed favorably.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Their caregivers also face significant emotional and psychological strain. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the community or easily accessible via telehealth, is therefore a critical component of a comprehensive care plan. The presence of support groups for both patients and caregivers is also essential.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for a particular physician or practice should not be a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects their commitment to providing holistic care. This includes the ability to coordinate care with other healthcare providers, social workers, and community resources. A high score would indicate a practice that proactively addresses the needs of Alzheimer's patients and their families, providing comprehensive support and promoting quality of life. This means a commitment to continuing education, staying abreast of the latest research, and adapting their practices to meet the evolving needs of the patient population.

Furthermore, the analysis needs to consider the accessibility of information and resources for patients and their families. This includes the availability of educational materials, support groups, and information on financial assistance programs. Practices that actively engage with the community to raise awareness about Alzheimer's and reduce the stigma associated with the disease are also deserving of recognition. This could include hosting educational seminars, participating in community events, and partnering with local organizations to provide support services.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Paxtonville requires a granular approach. It's not just about the number of physicians but also about their experience, specialization, and the resources they have at their disposal. The ideal scenario is a network of PCPs, specialists, and support services that work collaboratively to provide comprehensive care. This network should be easily accessible to residents of Paxtonville, with minimal barriers to entry.

Ultimately, the goal of the "Alzheimer's Score" analysis is to provide a clear and concise picture of the quality of Alzheimer's care available in the region. This information can then be used by patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their care. The analysis should be transparent, data-driven, and regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

To visualize and better understand the distribution of resources, healthcare access, and the specific locations of physicians and support services discussed in this analysis, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a spatial representation of the data, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Paxtonville and the surrounding areas.