17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.88 percent of the residents in 17936 has some form of health insurance. 32.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.10 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 17936 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 369 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17936. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 189 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,774 health care providers accessible to residents in 17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below assesses the availability of primary care physicians and related resources within ZIP Code 17936, specifically focusing on Gordon, Pennsylvania, and its implications for Alzheimer's care. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health support, all crucial factors in supporting individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease.

Gordon, Pennsylvania, a small borough in Schuylkill County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. The rural nature of the area often translates to challenges in accessing specialized medical care, including geriatric and neurological expertise essential for Alzheimer's diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The availability of primary care physicians forms the cornerstone of this healthcare ecosystem. These physicians often serve as the initial point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline or memory concerns, making their accessibility and capacity to manage early-stage Alzheimer's a critical factor.

Physician-to-patient ratios in Gordon and the surrounding areas are a primary concern. A limited number of primary care physicians, coupled with an aging population, can create significant strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate follow-up care. Assessing the actual physician-to-patient ratio requires gathering data from local hospitals, clinics, and insurance providers. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can offer insights, but often requires additional research to accurately reflect the current situation.

Identifying standout medical practices within the ZIP code is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, incorporating best practices in geriatric medicine and cognitive health. They may employ specialized staff, such as nurses or medical assistants trained in dementia care, or offer memory screenings and cognitive assessments. Practices that actively participate in research or clinical trials related to Alzheimer's disease are also valuable resources. Further investigation involves reviewing online patient reviews, contacting local hospitals for recommendations, and directly contacting practices to inquire about their specific services and expertise in dementia care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a crucial avenue for expanding access to care, especially in rural areas like Gordon. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists who may not be available locally. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management support, which are particularly beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. Examining the websites of local practices and contacting them directly can reveal the extent of their telemedicine adoption.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists is essential for managing these symptoms and supporting both the patient and their caregivers. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care programs can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease. Assessing mental health resources involves researching local mental health providers, contacting community organizations, and exploring the availability of support groups through the Alzheimer's Association and other relevant organizations.

The assessment of primary care availability in Gordon and the surrounding area requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves gathering data on physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout medical practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. This analysis should be continually updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers have access to the support they need.

The complexities of Alzheimer's care underscore the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare planning and resource allocation. The need for accessible, high-quality primary care, coupled with specialized geriatric and neurological expertise, is paramount. Telemedicine and robust mental health support systems are also essential components of an effective care model.

The challenges faced by individuals and families in Gordon, Pennsylvania, highlight the need for proactive measures to improve access to care. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health resources are crucial steps. Investing in training and education for healthcare professionals, as well as raising public awareness about Alzheimer's disease, are also vital.

For healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members seeking to understand and improve the healthcare landscape in Gordon, Pennsylvania, and beyond, the ability to visualize and analyze geographic data is invaluable. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing physician distribution, identifying areas with limited access to care, and mapping the availability of support services. This allows for data-driven decision-making and the development of targeted interventions to address the specific needs of the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Gordon, Pennsylvania, and to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a valuable resource for assessing primary care availability, identifying underserved areas, and planning for the future of Alzheimer's care.