17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.19 percent of the residents in 17866 has some form of health insurance. 33.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.12 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 17866 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17866. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,660 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,825 health care providers accessible to residents in 17866, Coal Township, Pennsylvania.

This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment for physicians within ZIP code 17866, focusing on their capacity to address the needs of patients and the overall primary care landscape in Coal Township, Pennsylvania. The assessment considers factors crucial to Alzheimer's care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialized services, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This approach aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.

The concept of an "Alzheimer's Score" is utilized here as a qualitative assessment, a holistic view of the healthcare system's preparedness to care for Alzheimer's patients. It is not a standardized metric but rather a composite evaluation based on available data and observable trends. It allows for a comparative analysis, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare system.

Coal Township, with the ZIP code 17866, presents a unique healthcare environment. The area is characterized by a predominantly rural population, which often faces specific challenges related to healthcare access. This context significantly influences the Alzheimer's Score, as access to specialists, support services, and technology-driven solutions can be limited compared to more urban settings.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental component of the Alzheimer's Score. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Data analysis of the region reveals a potential shortage of primary care physicians, which can create a bottleneck in the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's. This shortage can lead to delayed diagnoses, fewer opportunities for early intervention, and increased strain on existing healthcare providers. This aspect negatively impacts the overall Alzheimer's Score.

The availability of specialized services is another critical factor. Neurology and geriatric medicine specialists are essential for diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. The Alzheimer's Score is positively influenced by the presence of these specialists within or near the 17866 ZIP code. The lack of these specialists, or a limited number of them, can necessitate patients traveling long distances for specialized care, which can be particularly difficult for individuals with cognitive impairments and their caregivers.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care. This includes practices that offer comprehensive memory evaluations, participate in clinical trials, and actively engage with support groups and community organizations. Identifying such practices is crucial for improving the Alzheimer's Score. These practices often serve as models for other healthcare providers, demonstrating best practices in Alzheimer's care. Their presence elevates the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and remote monitoring capabilities. The Alzheimer's Score is positively affected by the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine for consultations, medication management, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to serve patients, especially those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges are common among individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The Alzheimer's Score considers the availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the local healthcare system. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is particularly beneficial, allowing for a more holistic approach to patient care. The presence of robust mental health support significantly improves the score.

Furthermore, the level of community support is an essential element. Alzheimer's support groups, caregiver training programs, and educational initiatives contribute to a more supportive environment for patients and families. The Alzheimer's Score takes into account the availability and accessibility of these resources. The presence of a strong community network can alleviate some of the burden on caregivers and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for physicians in ZIP code 17866, and the primary care environment in Coal Township, is, therefore, subject to a number of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio may be a challenge. The presence of specialists, while important, may be limited. Telemedicine adoption may be in its early stages. Mental health resources may be adequate, but the availability of community support can vary.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a static measure. It can be improved through various initiatives. These initiatives can include efforts to attract and retain primary care physicians, increase the availability of specialists, promote telemedicine adoption, and strengthen community support networks. These improvements can lead to better outcomes for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Coal Township, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping tools can provide valuable insights into physician locations, specialist availability, and the accessibility of support services. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment in 17866.