17959, New Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17959, New Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.27 percent of the residents in 17959 has some form of health insurance. 42.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.68 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 17959 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 363 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17959. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 280 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 875 health care providers accessible to residents in 17959, New Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: New Philadelphia, PA (ZIP Code 17959)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within New Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17959). The focus is on primary care physicians (PCPs), their practices, and the broader support system available to patients and their families. We'll evaluate this based on factors influencing the "Alzheimer's Score," which considers access to care, early diagnosis capabilities, and the availability of ongoing support.

The physician-to-patient ratio in New Philadelphia is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall healthcare landscape in this area, like many rural communities, often faces challenges regarding physician density. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialists, and potentially delayed diagnoses. This is a fundamental factor impacting the Alzheimer's Score, as timely intervention is crucial in managing the disease.

Assessing the specific practices within the area reveals further insights. The presence of practices with a strong focus on geriatric care is a significant positive indicator. Geriatricians, with their specialized training in the health needs of older adults, are better equipped to identify early signs of cognitive decline and provide comprehensive care. Practices that offer memory screenings, cognitive assessments, and counseling services for patients and caregivers contribute positively to the score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online support groups, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices actively embracing telemedicine can enhance the Alzheimer's Score by providing more convenient and accessible care options. The availability of virtual support groups and educational resources also contributes to a higher score, as these resources empower patients and caregivers with knowledge and coping strategies.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists within the community is therefore essential. Practices with integrated mental health services, or strong referral networks to mental health professionals, are better positioned to address the multifaceted needs of patients and their families. The presence of support groups specifically for caregivers is also a crucial factor, as caregivers often experience significant stress and require dedicated support.

Standout practices within the area deserve specific mention, though identifying them requires detailed local research. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to early detection, comprehensive care, and patient-centered approaches would be considered high-scoring. This might include practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, offer caregiver education workshops, or collaborate with local Alzheimer's support organizations. The presence of a dedicated care coordinator, who can help patients navigate the healthcare system and access relevant resources, would be a significant asset.

Evaluating the Alzheimer's Score also involves assessing the availability of diagnostic tools. Access to advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI and PET scans, is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. Practices that have access to these technologies, or readily available referral pathways to facilities that do, contribute to a higher score. Furthermore, the ability to conduct cognitive assessments, such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), is crucial for early detection and monitoring disease progression.

Beyond medical care, the availability of community-based resources is a critical component. The presence of adult day care centers, respite care services, and home healthcare agencies provides essential support for patients and their families. These resources can help alleviate the burden on caregivers, allowing them to maintain their own well-being while providing quality care for their loved ones. The availability of these resources directly impacts the Alzheimer's Score, as they contribute to a more comprehensive and supportive care environment.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for New Philadelphia, PA (ZIP Code 17959) is likely to be moderate, given the potential challenges of a rural setting. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of geriatric specialists, and the adoption of telemedicine are key factors influencing the score. The presence of robust mental health resources and community-based support services is also crucial. Further research is needed to identify specific practices and resources within the area to provide a more precise assessment.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in New Philadelphia and visualize the location of physicians, support services, and other relevant resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you identify healthcare providers, assess access to care, and visualize the distribution of resources within the community.