17952, Mary D, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17952, Mary D, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.61 percent of the residents in 17952 has some form of health insurance. 38.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.77 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 17952 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 39 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17952. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 49 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 894 health care providers accessible to residents in 17952, Mary D, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Primary Care in Mary D (ZIP Code 17952)**

Analyzing the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources within the 17952 ZIP code, specifically focusing on their preparedness and accessibility for patients dealing with Alzheimer's disease, reveals a complex picture. This analysis considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for providing comprehensive care to individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 17952, like many rural or semi-rural areas, is a critical starting point. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can significantly hinder timely diagnosis, ongoing monitoring, and the coordination of care so vital for Alzheimer's patients. A preliminary assessment, based on publicly available data (which may vary in real-time accuracy) suggests the ratio could be a concern. This implies that residents, particularly those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, may face difficulties accessing regular appointments, a necessity for managing the disease effectively.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into the specific services offered by each practice within the 17952 area. This involves evaluating their experience with geriatric care, their familiarity with Alzheimer's diagnostic tools (such as cognitive assessments), and their demonstrated commitment to patient education and support. Practices that actively participate in memory clinics, offer specialized memory care programs, or have staff trained in dementia care are likely to score higher. These practices often provide essential services such as caregiver support groups, medication management assistance, and referrals to relevant specialists.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in areas with limited access to in-person care. The availability of telemedicine appointments, particularly for follow-up visits, medication adjustments, and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care for Alzheimer's patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine, utilizing secure video conferencing and remote monitoring technologies, are better positioned to serve a wider patient base and provide more convenient care options. This is particularly important for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

The availability of mental health resources is another critical component of effective 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 specializing in geriatric mental health is essential for managing these symptoms and improving the overall quality of life for patients and their families. The presence of these resources within the 17952 area, or readily accessible through referral networks, is a significant factor in the overall assessment.

The assessment of practices and resources should also consider the availability of support services. This includes access to home healthcare agencies, respite care services, and adult day care programs. These services can provide much-needed support to caregivers, allowing them to maintain their own well-being and continue providing care for their loved ones. The presence of these services, and their affordability, is an important factor in determining the overall quality of care available in the area.

Specific practices within the 17952 area, without naming them directly due to data privacy concerns, might excel in certain areas. Some may have a strong emphasis on geriatric care, employing staff with specialized training in dementia management. Others might be actively involved in community outreach programs, providing educational resources and support to families affected by Alzheimer's. Still others may be early adopters of telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for primary care in Mary D (17952) is determined by weighing these factors. A higher score indicates a greater availability of resources, a more patient-centered approach, and a greater capacity to meet the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients and their families. A lower score suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care.

To improve the score, the 17952 area could benefit from several initiatives. Recruiting more PCPs, particularly those with experience in geriatric care, is crucial. Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine by existing practices can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations. Expanding the availability of mental health resources, including geriatric psychiatrists and therapists, is also essential. Finally, fostering collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, and community support organizations can create a more integrated and supportive care environment.

The importance of data accuracy and real-time information cannot be overstated. The information used for this analysis is based on publicly available data, which may not always reflect the most current situation. Further investigation, including direct contact with practices and community organizations, is recommended to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the resources available.

To help navigate this complex landscape and gain a visual understanding of the resources available in the 17952 area, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping tools offered by CartoChrome. These tools can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and support services, allowing you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.