17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 55.76 percent of the residents in 17931 has some form of health insurance. 23.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.11 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 17931 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,157 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17931. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 946 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,910 health care providers accessible to residents in 17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Frackville, PA (ZIP Code 17931)

The challenge of providing adequate healthcare, particularly for a complex condition like Alzheimer's disease, is multifaceted. This analysis will explore the availability of resources for Alzheimer's care within Frackville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17931), focusing on primary care physician availability, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health services, and overall physician-to-patient ratios. The goal is to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape in supporting individuals and families affected by this devastating illness.

Frackville, a small borough in Schuylkill County, presents a unique set of circumstances. Its demographic makeup, including an aging population, increases the potential need for specialized care, including Alzheimer's support. Understanding the local infrastructure and resource allocation is critical for ensuring residents have access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support.

One of the fundamental pillars of Alzheimer's care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or memory concerns. They can conduct preliminary assessments, refer patients to specialists, and coordinate care plans. The physician-to-patient ratio in Frackville is a crucial indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, must be utilized to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio should be compared to state and national averages to gauge the relative availability of primary care in the area.

Beyond the simple number of doctors, the characteristics of the practices themselves are important. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate the needs of working caregivers? Do they have experience with geriatric care and dementia management? The presence of board-certified geriatricians or neurologists within the area is a significant advantage. These specialists possess the expertise to diagnose and manage Alzheimer's disease effectively. The availability of specialized memory clinics or geriatric assessment centers would be a major positive factor.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial aspect of modern healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. This is especially important for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may have difficulty traveling to appointments. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups, can significantly enhance the quality of care. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services requires research into local healthcare providers and their telehealth offerings.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential for managing these symptoms and supporting both patients and their caregivers. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups within Frackville is a significant indicator of the community's ability to address the emotional and psychological needs of those affected by Alzheimer's. The availability of these resources should be thoroughly investigated.

Standout practices within Frackville should be identified. This could include practices that have demonstrated a commitment to Alzheimer's care through specialized programs, staff training, or community outreach. Practices that actively participate in research or clinical trials related to Alzheimer's would also be considered exemplary. Identifying these standout practices can help guide individuals and families towards the best possible care options. This identification process requires in-depth research, including online reviews, patient testimonials, and direct contact with local healthcare providers.

The integration of community resources is another critical factor. This includes the availability of adult day care centers, respite care services, and home healthcare agencies. These resources provide support for caregivers, allowing them to take breaks and maintain their own well-being. The presence of support groups specifically for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers is also essential. These groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, offering emotional support, and learning coping strategies. This integration of community resources demonstrates a comprehensive approach to Alzheimer's care.

Evaluating the overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Frackville requires a holistic assessment of all these factors. It's not simply about the number of doctors or the availability of telemedicine. It's about the interconnectedness of all the elements of care. The score would reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. The score would be a composite measure, weighing the various factors according to their relative importance. A higher score would indicate a more robust and supportive environment for Alzheimer's care.

In conclusion, understanding the healthcare landscape in Frackville, Pennsylvania, is crucial for ensuring the well-being of its residents, especially those facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. By evaluating physician availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the integration of community support, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This assessment is vital for identifying areas for improvement and advocating for increased resources and support for individuals and families affected by this devastating illness. The information gathered from this analysis should be used to inform healthcare planning and resource allocation, ultimately leading to better care and improved quality of life for those living with Alzheimer's in Frackville.

**For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Frackville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specialties, and community support services, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the local healthcare landscape. Click here to explore the maps and discover the resources available in your community.**