17953, Middleport, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17953, Middleport, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.93 percent of the residents in 17953 has some form of health insurance. 43.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.24 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 17953 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 55 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17953. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 89 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 852 health care providers accessible to residents in 17953, Middleport, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Middleport, PA (ZIP Code 17953)

Middleport, Pennsylvania, a small borough nestled within Schuylkill County, presents a unique challenge in assessing its preparedness for the growing prevalence of Alzheimer's disease. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," will examine the availability of healthcare resources, particularly primary care physicians, and their ability to address the needs of individuals and families affected by this devastating illness. The analysis will focus on ZIP code 17953, the primary geographic identifier for Middleport, and its surrounding areas.

The foundation of any Alzheimer's care system lies in accessible primary care. In Middleport, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. While precise figures require access to proprietary databases, publicly available information suggests a potential shortage of primary care physicians compared to the national average. This scarcity translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying early diagnosis and intervention, critical factors in managing Alzheimer's. Furthermore, the age distribution of the population in and around Middleport, with a higher proportion of senior citizens, exacerbates this concern. The demand for primary care services, including cognitive assessments and ongoing management of chronic conditions often associated with Alzheimer's, is likely to be significantly higher than in areas with younger populations.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are essential. Identifying standout practices in the area requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, physician specializations, and the availability of comprehensive services. Practices that actively participate in memory care programs, offer cognitive screenings, and have experience managing patients with dementia are highly valuable. These practices often employ nurses and support staff trained in geriatric care, creating a more supportive environment for both patients and their caregivers. The presence of specialists, such as neurologists or geriatricians, within a reasonable distance is another crucial factor. While Middleport may not have these specialists directly within its borders, proximity to larger medical centers in Pottsville or Reading becomes a vital consideration.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Middleport. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide access to specialists via video conferencing can significantly improve access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially overcome geographical barriers, making it easier for patients and their families to connect with physicians and receive timely support. The availability of telehealth services for cognitive assessments, medication management, and caregiver support is particularly important in the context of Alzheimer's. However, the digital divide, encompassing factors like internet access and technological literacy, can present a significant challenge in rural communities, potentially limiting the effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The emotional and psychological impact of the disease on both patients and caregivers is profound. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups is crucial for addressing these needs. Middleport's access to these resources needs careful evaluation. Are there mental health professionals practicing locally? Are there support groups for caregivers and individuals with Alzheimer's? Are these resources readily accessible and affordable? The lack of adequate mental health support can exacerbate the challenges faced by families dealing with Alzheimer's, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and even burnout for caregivers.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Middleport, therefore, is likely to be moderate. While the community likely benefits from the inherent strength of a close-knit rural environment, it faces considerable challenges. The potential shortage of primary care physicians, the need for improved access to specialists, the importance of expanding telemedicine capabilities, and the critical need for accessible mental health resources all contribute to a complex picture. The score would be negatively impacted by the potential physician shortage and lack of specialized care directly within the ZIP code. Positive factors would include the potential for strong community support networks, but these need to be formally assessed.

Addressing the challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, and fostering partnerships between local healthcare providers and mental health professionals are essential steps. Increasing awareness about Alzheimer's, providing educational resources for families, and establishing robust caregiver support programs are equally important. A collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial to improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families in Middleport.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Middleport and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of visual data. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, interactive view of physician locations, specialist availability, healthcare facility locations, and demographics, all overlaid on a geographic map. This visual representation can help identify areas of high need and potential gaps in care, allowing for more informed decision-making and targeted resource allocation.

**Click here to explore CartoChrome maps and visualize the healthcare resources in Middleport, PA (ZIP code 17953). Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in Alzheimer's care within your community.**