17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.86 percent of the residents in 17930 has some form of health insurance. 36.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.21 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 17930 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 43 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17930. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 60 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,776 health care providers accessible to residents in 17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Cumbola, PA (ZIP Code 17930)

The following analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care resources within ZIP code 17930, focusing on factors pertinent to Alzheimer's disease management. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" reflecting the overall support system available to residents of Cumbola, PA, navigating the complexities of this debilitating disease.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care rests on robust primary care. Early diagnosis, ongoing monitoring, and medication management are often initiated and coordinated by primary care physicians (PCPs). Therefore, the physician-to-patient ratio within 17930 is a critical indicator. Data suggests that rural areas often face shortages of PCPs, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased burdens on existing providers. Accurate, up-to-date information on the precise physician-to-patient ratio for this specific ZIP code is crucial for a comprehensive assessment. Publicly available data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state-level medical boards should be consulted to determine the current ratio. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, would negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly influences Alzheimer's care. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several factors. Does the practice have experience in geriatric care? Are physicians and staff trained in recognizing the early signs of cognitive decline? Do they offer comprehensive memory screenings or have established referral pathways to neurologists or geriatric specialists? Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) related to Alzheimer's and dementia demonstrate a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can improve communication and coordination of care, which is particularly important for managing a complex disease like Alzheimer's. Practices excelling in these areas would positively influence the Alzheimer's Score.

Telemedicine adoption presents another crucial element. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for individuals in rural areas who may face geographical barriers to accessing specialists or attending regular appointments. The ability to conduct virtual consultations for medication management, provide remote monitoring, and offer support to caregivers can be invaluable. The Alzheimer's Score will be positively impacted by the availability of telemedicine services from local primary care practices, neurology clinics, and mental health providers. The ease of access to these virtual services, including user-friendliness of the platforms and the availability of technical support, should also be considered.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often brings with it significant emotional and psychological challenges for both the patient and their caregivers. Depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes are common. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the Cumbola area is therefore essential. The Alzheimer's Score will be positively influenced by the presence of these resources, as well as the ease of access to them. Factors to consider include the number of mental health providers, their acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of support groups for both patients and caregivers.

The availability of specialized care, while often beyond the scope of primary care, is also a factor. Access to neurologists, geriatricians, and memory care specialists is vital for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of Alzheimer's. The distance to the nearest specialized clinics, the wait times for appointments, and the acceptance of insurance are all factors that influence the overall quality of care. The Alzheimer's Score will be improved by the presence of these specialist services, particularly if they are easily accessible to residents of 17930.

Caregiver support is another important consideration. Alzheimer's disease places a tremendous burden on family members and other caregivers. The availability of respite care services, support groups, educational programs, and financial assistance can significantly impact the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. The Alzheimer's Score will be positively influenced by the availability of these resources within the community.

Medication management is a critical aspect of Alzheimer's care. Primary care physicians are often responsible for prescribing and monitoring medications. The Alzheimer's Score will be influenced by the physician's familiarity with the latest pharmacological treatments for Alzheimer's disease, their ability to manage potential side effects, and their willingness to collaborate with specialists.

Finally, the overall coordination of care is essential. A well-coordinated healthcare system ensures that patients receive the right care at the right time. This requires effective communication between primary care physicians, specialists, mental health providers, and caregivers. The Alzheimer's Score will be positively influenced by the presence of care coordination programs or systems within the community.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Cumbola, PA (ZIP Code 17930) is a composite assessment of the factors outlined above. The final score will reflect the overall availability and quality of primary care resources, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health services, and the presence of specialized care options. A comprehensive evaluation requires detailed data collection and analysis, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of geriatric specialists, and the availability of support services. The score will provide a valuable snapshot of the community's capacity to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

For a more detailed and visually informative analysis of healthcare resources in Cumbola, PA (ZIP Code 17930), including the locations of primary care practices, specialist clinics, and mental health providers, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic, interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.