17862, Penns Creek, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17862, Penns Creek, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.66 percent of the residents in 17862 has some form of health insurance. 27.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.66 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 17862 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 104 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17862. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 62 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,238 health care providers accessible to residents in 17862, Penns Creek, Pennsylvania.

This analysis assesses the "Alzheimer's Score" for primary care physicians (PCPs) and their associated resources in Penns Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17862), focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease care. The "Alzheimer's Score" is a conceptual framework; this analysis will not provide a numerical score, but rather a qualitative evaluation based on available data and assumptions about best practices. The goal is to understand the landscape of care for individuals in this area, particularly regarding their access to resources for Alzheimer's disease.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. In Penns Creek, a rural area, it's reasonable to assume a lower physician density compared to urban centers. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialized care. Information on the exact PCP-to-patient ratio requires access to specific datasets, such as those maintained by the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). These datasets are often proprietary and require subscriptions. However, we can infer that the limited population of Penns Creek, coupled with the potential for residents to seek care outside the immediate ZIP code, likely results in a ratio that is less favorable than in more densely populated areas. This scarcity necessitates careful consideration of resource allocation and innovative approaches to healthcare delivery.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into individual physician profiles and practice characteristics. Factors to consider include: the presence of geriatricians or neurologists within the practice or network; the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate care coordination; participation in programs focused on dementia care; and the availability of patient education materials. Without specific practice names, we must rely on assumptions. We can assume that larger practices or those affiliated with hospitals might have better resources, including access to specialists and support staff. The presence of a practice actively involved in community outreach programs or collaborations with local Alzheimer's support groups would also be a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in rural areas like Penns Creek. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists, cognitive assessments, and ongoing monitoring for patients with Alzheimer's disease. Assessing the adoption rate requires knowing which practices offer telemedicine services. This information is often available through practice websites, insurance provider directories, or direct inquiries. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving access to care, which is crucial in a region with potentially limited resources. The availability of telehealth for mental health services is especially important, as depression and anxiety are common in Alzheimer's patients.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The diagnosis and progression of Alzheimer's often coincide with changes in mood, behavior, and cognitive function. Assessing the availability of mental health support requires looking at the proximity of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs). The presence of these professionals within the primary care practices or in close proximity is a strong indicator of a supportive environment. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, caregiver resources, and memory care facilities in the surrounding area significantly impacts the "Alzheimer's Score." These resources help patients and their families navigate the challenges of the disease.

Care coordination is another critical factor. The ability of PCPs to effectively coordinate care with specialists, therapists, and other healthcare providers is vital. This often involves the use of EHRs, which allow for the secure sharing of patient information and facilitate communication between healthcare professionals. Practices that have invested in care coordination infrastructure are better equipped to manage the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients. The presence of care managers or social workers within the practice can further enhance care coordination efforts.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Penns Creek is likely affected by the rural setting. The lower physician-to-patient ratio, the potential for limited access to specialists, and the challenges of providing comprehensive care in a geographically dispersed area all contribute to the complexity of the situation. The adoption of telemedicine, strong care coordination efforts, and the availability of mental health resources can help mitigate these challenges. The presence of practices committed to geriatric care, and those actively involved in community outreach, would positively impact the score.

The overall picture suggests that while resources may be limited, opportunities exist to improve Alzheimer's care in Penns Creek. The key is identifying and leveraging the available resources effectively. This includes promoting telemedicine, strengthening care coordination, and ensuring that patients and their families have access to mental health support and caregiver resources.

To gain a deeper understanding of the specific healthcare landscape in Penns Creek and visualize the distribution of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help to pinpoint the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, mental health providers, and support services. This visual representation can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and identify potential gaps in service.