17968, Sacramento, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17968, Sacramento, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 76.92 percent of the residents in 17968 has some form of health insurance. 37.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.89 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 17968 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 79 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17968. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 53 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 177 health care providers accessible to residents in 17968, Sacramento, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: 17968 & Sacramento Primary Care

This analysis provides an "Alzheimers Score" assessment, not a numerical ranking, for primary care physician (PCP) accessibility and associated resources in two distinct geographic areas: ZIP Code 17968 (assumed to be a rural area) and Sacramento, California (a major metropolitan area). The score reflects the availability of resources crucial for Alzheimer's disease management, including physician access, mental health support, and technology integration. The score is relative, comparing the two locations and considering factors that contribute to the overall quality of care for patients with, or at risk of, Alzheimer's.

**17968: A Rural Landscape of Challenges**

ZIP Code 17968, likely representing a rural community, faces inherent challenges in providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. The most significant hurdle is likely **physician-to-patient ratio**. Rural areas often experience a shortage of PCPs and specialists, including neurologists and geriatricians, crucial for diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's. The limited number of physicians translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. This scarcity also impacts the availability of specialized support services, such as memory clinics or dedicated Alzheimer's care centers.

Standout practices in 17968 are difficult to identify without specific data. However, any practice demonstrating a proactive approach to Alzheimer's care would be considered exceptional. This includes practices that actively screen for cognitive decline, offer patient education, and provide caregiver support groups. Such practices may also collaborate with local hospitals or regional healthcare systems to access specialist consultations via telehealth.

**Telemedicine adoption** in 17968 is a critical factor. Given the geographic isolation, telemedicine offers a lifeline for patients to access specialist consultations, medication management, and ongoing monitoring. Practices that embrace telemedicine, particularly those offering remote cognitive assessments and virtual support groups, would receive a higher score. The success of telemedicine, however, depends on reliable internet access, which can be a significant barrier in rural areas.

**Mental health resources** in 17968 are likely limited. Alzheimer's disease often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is crucial. The lack of these resources, coupled with the potential for social isolation in rural areas, presents a significant disadvantage for patients and their caregivers. The absence of readily available mental health support would negatively impact the Alzheimers Score.

**Sacramento: A Metropolitan Perspective**

Sacramento, a major metropolitan area, presents a different landscape for Alzheimer's care. The **physician-to-patient ratio** is generally more favorable than in rural areas, providing greater access to PCPs, neurologists, and geriatricians. However, even in a city, disparities can exist, particularly for underserved communities. The concentration of specialists in certain areas may still create access challenges for patients in other parts of the city.

**Standout practices** in Sacramento would likely include those with dedicated memory clinics, offering comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, treatment plans, and support services. Practices that participate in clinical trials for Alzheimer's research and offer innovative therapies would also be highly regarded. The integration of multidisciplinary teams, including PCPs, neurologists, geriatricians, neuropsychologists, and social workers, is essential for providing holistic care.

**Telemedicine adoption** in Sacramento is likely more widespread than in 17968, but its effectiveness depends on how well it is integrated into the existing healthcare system. Practices that offer convenient telehealth appointments, remote monitoring of cognitive function, and virtual support groups for patients and caregivers would be considered leaders in this area. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

**Mental health resources** in Sacramento are generally more abundant than in rural areas. However, the demand for mental health services, particularly those specializing in geriatric mental health, can still exceed supply. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups is crucial for addressing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with Alzheimer's. Practices that have strong partnerships with mental health providers and offer integrated care models would receive a higher score. The presence of specialized memory care units within hospitals and assisted living facilities also contributes positively to the overall score.

**Comparative Analysis and Conclusion**

Comparing the two locations, Sacramento generally scores higher on the Alzheimers Score due to its greater access to physicians, specialists, and mental health resources. However, Sacramento must ensure equitable access to these resources for all residents. 17968 faces significant challenges due to its rural nature, but the adoption of telemedicine and the development of collaborative care models can mitigate some of these disadvantages. The availability of reliable internet access and the implementation of innovative telehealth solutions are critical for improving the Alzheimers Score in rural areas.

Both locations need to prioritize patient education, caregiver support, and early detection programs. The integration of technology, such as remote monitoring devices and cognitive assessment tools, can further enhance the quality of care. Ultimately, the Alzheimers Score is a reflection of the community's commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease.

**Explore the Healthcare Landscape with CartoChrome Maps**

Want to visualize the healthcare resources in your area and compare access to care? CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into physician density, specialist availability, and the location of mental health facilities. Explore the interactive maps to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify potential gaps in care.