17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.96 percent of the residents in 17965 has some form of health insurance. 42.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.86 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 17965 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 364 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17965. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 401 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,272 health care providers accessible to residents in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: Port Carbon, PA (ZIP Code 17965)

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare resources, particularly for individuals facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the specific needs within Port Carbon, PA (ZIP Code 17965), evaluating the landscape of primary care physicians, mental health support, and technological integration, all crucial elements in providing adequate care for those affected by this debilitating condition. The ultimate goal is to determine an "Alzheimers Score" reflecting the community's preparedness and responsiveness to the needs of Alzheimer's patients and their families.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care lies in accessible and knowledgeable primary care physicians. In Port Carbon, a critical first step is assessing the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care providers, could significantly hinder timely diagnosis, ongoing management, and the coordination of care. This assessment must go beyond simple numbers, however. It must evaluate the experience and training of the physicians in the area. Are they well-versed in the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options for Alzheimer's? Do they have established relationships with specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, crucial for comprehensive care?

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is another crucial aspect of the analysis. Some practices may demonstrate a superior commitment to Alzheimer's care through specialized programs, dedicated staff, or proactive patient outreach. These practices might offer memory screenings, educational workshops for families, or support groups. Evaluating the quality of these services, the patient satisfaction levels, and the overall approach to patient-centered care is essential. This could include assessing the availability of extended appointments, home visits, and after-hours support.

The adoption of telemedicine is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, especially in rural areas like Port Carbon. Telemedicine offers the potential to connect patients with specialists, provide remote monitoring, and deliver educational resources without requiring extensive travel. An "Alzheimers Score" must therefore evaluate the extent to which local physicians utilize telemedicine platforms. This includes assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring tools, and the integration of telehealth into the overall care plan. A high score would indicate a strong telemedicine infrastructure and a willingness among providers to embrace technology to enhance patient care.

Beyond primary care, the availability of mental health resources is paramount. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who specialize in geriatric mental health is crucial for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. The analysis must therefore assess the number of mental health professionals practicing within the ZIP code, their areas of expertise, and the availability of support groups and counseling services specifically tailored to Alzheimer's patients and their families.

Furthermore, the analysis needs to consider the availability of social services and community support networks. These resources, such as adult day care centers, respite care programs, and home healthcare services, can provide crucial assistance to caregivers and help patients maintain their independence for as long as possible. The "Alzheimers Score" should reflect the presence and accessibility of these services, including their affordability and the quality of care they provide.

The overall assessment of Port Carbon's preparedness for Alzheimer's care will be influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust primary care network, readily available mental health resources, a strong telemedicine infrastructure, and a well-developed support system for patients and their families. Conversely, a low score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and a lack of community resources.

The "Alzheimers Score" is not merely a numerical rating; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing compassionate and effective care for those affected by Alzheimer's disease. It should be a catalyst for improvement, prompting healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers to collaborate and address any identified gaps in care.

The analysis should also consider the demographics of the community. The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease increases with age, so understanding the age distribution of the population in Port Carbon is crucial. A community with a higher proportion of older adults may require more resources and specialized care. This demographic data can inform the allocation of resources and the development of targeted interventions.

Another important factor is the level of awareness and education about Alzheimer's disease within the community. Public awareness campaigns, educational programs for healthcare providers, and support groups for families can play a vital role in early detection, proper management, and reducing the stigma associated with the disease. The analysis should assess the presence and effectiveness of these initiatives.

Finally, the analysis should evaluate the level of collaboration and coordination among healthcare providers, social service agencies, and community organizations. A well-coordinated system of care is essential for ensuring that patients receive the right services at the right time. This includes the seamless transfer of information between providers, the development of care plans, and the ongoing monitoring of patient progress.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimers Score" for Port Carbon, PA (ZIP Code 17965) will be a comprehensive assessment of the community's capacity to provide quality care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. It will consider the availability of primary care physicians, mental health resources, telemedicine adoption, community support networks, and the overall level of awareness and education. This analysis serves as a baseline for future improvements and a guide for those seeking healthcare resources in the area.

**For a more detailed visual representation of healthcare resources and physician locations in Port Carbon, PA (ZIP Code 17965), consider exploring interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of providers, accessibility of services, and other relevant data points. Visit CartoChrome to enhance your understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.**