17970, Saint Clair, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17970, Saint Clair, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.73 percent of the residents in 17970 has some form of health insurance. 44.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.49 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 17970 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 536 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17970. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 677 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,536 health care providers accessible to residents in 17970, Saint Clair, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Saint Clair, PA (ZIP Code 17970)

The aging population within the Saint Clair, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17970) area, coupled with the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer's disease, necessitates a thorough evaluation of local healthcare resources. This analysis provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, focusing on primary care physician availability, specialized care access, and overall support systems within the community. It considers factors relevant to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of Alzheimer's disease for residents.

The fundamental building block for effective Alzheimer's care is readily accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Saint Clair is a crucial indicator. A high ratio, indicating a limited number of primary care physicians relative to the population, can lead to delayed diagnoses and reduced access to ongoing management. This situation can be further complicated by the aging demographic, which often requires more frequent medical attention. Research into the specific physician-to-patient ratio for ZIP code 17970 is essential to determine the initial score. Publicly available data, such as information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), should be consulted.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices are vital. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer same-day appointments for urgent concerns? Do they have experience in cognitive assessments or a willingness to refer to specialists? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate information sharing between physicians is another key factor. Practices with robust EHR systems are often better equipped to manage complex conditions like Alzheimer's, allowing for more coordinated care.

Specialized care access is another critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. This involves the availability of neurologists, geriatricians, and neuropsychologists. The presence of specialists within the Saint Clair area or in nearby communities is important. The travel time to these specialists and the ease of scheduling appointments are also significant considerations. A lack of readily available specialists can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, negatively impacting the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend that can significantly improve access to care, particularly in rural areas. The availability of telemedicine services, including virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists, can be a game-changer for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. It reduces the need for travel, which can be challenging for those with cognitive impairments, and provides convenient access to medical expertise. The adoption rate of telemedicine among local practices should be assessed to determine its impact on the Alzheimer's Score.

Mental health resources are also crucial in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The emotional and psychological toll on both the individual with the disease and their caregivers is substantial. Access to mental health professionals, support groups, and counseling services is essential for providing comprehensive care. The availability of these resources within Saint Clair or nearby communities should be assessed. The Alzheimer's Association and other local organizations often provide valuable support services, and their presence and accessibility contribute positively to the score.

Standout practices within the area should be recognized. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality Alzheimer's care, such as those with specialized training, dedicated staff, or innovative approaches to patient management, should be highlighted. These practices serve as models for others and can positively influence the overall Alzheimer's Score for the community. Identifying these practices involves researching their services, patient reviews, and any awards or recognition they have received.

Caregiver support is an often-overlooked, yet critical, aspect of Alzheimer's care. The demands placed on caregivers can be overwhelming, and access to resources like respite care, support groups, and educational programs is essential for their well-being. The availability of these resources within the community directly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. Local organizations and community centers often play a vital role in providing these services.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for Saint Clair, PA (ZIP code 17970) is a composite measure of all these factors. It reflects the community's capacity to diagnose, treat, and support individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. A higher score indicates a more robust and accessible system of care. The final score should be accompanied by recommendations for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health and caregiver support services.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score analysis provides a valuable framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape in Saint Clair, PA. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the local system and identifies areas for improvement. The analysis should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and ensure that the community is well-prepared to meet the growing needs of its aging population.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Saint Clair and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and resource distribution, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a dynamic and insightful view of the data, enabling you to make informed decisions and advocate for improved healthcare access within your community.