17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.08 percent of the residents in 17888 has some form of health insurance. 35.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.37 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 17888 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 126 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17888. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 100 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,065 health care providers accessible to residents in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Wilburton, PA (ZIP Code 17888)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within the Wilburton, PA (ZIP Code 17888) area. The focus is on primary care physician (PCP) access, the presence of specialists, and the integration of telemedicine and mental health support – all critical factors in providing timely diagnosis, management, and care for individuals and families affected by this debilitating condition. We will assess the "Alzheimer's Score" for this region, considering various metrics to gauge the area's preparedness to address the growing needs of its aging population.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care rests on accessible and knowledgeable primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Wilburton is crucial. While precise figures require access to proprietary databases, we can infer potential challenges. Rural areas often face shortages, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased burdens on existing physicians. This scarcity can hinder early detection, which is vital for slowing disease progression and maximizing quality of life. The "Alzheimer's Score" would be negatively impacted if the PCP-to-patient ratio is significantly higher than the national average.

Beyond raw numbers, the expertise of available PCPs is paramount. Do they have specialized training or experience in geriatric care and cognitive assessments? Are they familiar with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options? The "Alzheimer's Score" benefits from practices that prioritize ongoing education for their staff, ensuring they remain current on advancements in Alzheimer's care. We would seek evidence of this through practice websites, professional affiliations, and patient testimonials.

Specialist availability is another critical factor. While PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact, the involvement of neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists is often essential for accurate diagnosis and comprehensive management. The proximity of these specialists to Wilburton and their willingness to accept new patients are key indicators. A lack of specialists would significantly lower the "Alzheimer's Score," potentially forcing patients to travel long distances for specialized care, adding to their burden and that of their caregivers.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve healthcare access, especially in rural communities like Wilburton. Remote consultations with specialists, virtual monitoring of patients, and online support groups can mitigate some of the challenges associated with geographical limitations. The "Alzheimer's Score" would be positively influenced by practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring, and digital educational resources. The availability of reliable internet infrastructure within the ZIP code is also a crucial consideration.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. Both patients and their caregivers often experience significant emotional distress, including depression, anxiety, and grief. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential. The "Alzheimer's Score" would be enhanced by the availability of these services, particularly those specializing in geriatric mental health and dementia-related issues. Partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers, allowing for seamless referrals and integrated care, would further elevate the score.

Standout practices within the Wilburton area deserve recognition. These are the healthcare providers demonstrating a commitment to excellence in Alzheimer's care. This could include practices that have implemented memory clinics, offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and care plans. It could also involve those actively participating in clinical trials or community outreach programs focused on dementia awareness and support. Identifying and highlighting these exemplary practices would positively impact the "Alzheimer's Score," providing a model for others to emulate.

Community support systems play a crucial role. The availability of support groups for patients and caregivers, respite care services, and adult day care centers can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's. The "Alzheimer's Score" would be positively influenced by the presence and accessibility of these community resources. Partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations are essential for creating a robust support network.

Assessing the overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Wilburton, PA (17888) involves a nuanced evaluation of these factors. It is not a simple numerical calculation but a qualitative assessment based on the availability, accessibility, and quality of care. The score would reflect the area's strengths and weaknesses, highlighting areas where improvements are needed. A high score would indicate a community well-equipped to address the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, while a low score would signal a need for increased investment in resources and services.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not static. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in healthcare access, the emergence of new treatments, and the evolving needs of the community. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for ensuring that residents of Wilburton have access to the best possible care for Alzheimer's disease. This includes proactive measures to address any identified deficiencies and to capitalize on opportunities for improvement.

The analysis of the healthcare landscape in Wilburton highlights the importance of comprehensive planning and resource allocation to address the growing prevalence of Alzheimer's disease. By focusing on physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and community resources, the region can work towards improving the "Alzheimer's Score" and providing better care for its residents.

For a comprehensive, visually driven understanding of healthcare access in Wilburton and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, specialists, and support services, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations that can help you assess the landscape and identify areas for improvement.