17974, Seltzer, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17974, Seltzer, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.92 percent of the residents in 17974 has some form of health insurance. 59.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.97 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 17974 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 107 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17974. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 87 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,495 health care providers accessible to residents in 17974, Seltzer, Pennsylvania.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge, demanding comprehensive care and readily accessible resources. Assessing the landscape of healthcare providers and support systems is crucial, particularly within specific geographic areas. This analysis focuses on the healthcare infrastructure within ZIP code 17974 (which includes Seltzer, Pennsylvania), evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, mental health resources, and telemedicine adoption, with a particular focus on Alzheimer's-related care.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with primary care physicians. They serve as the initial point of contact, responsible for early detection, diagnosis, and coordination of care. The physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 17974 is a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can create significant barriers to timely appointments and consistent care. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing specific, up-to-date data, which is often proprietary. However, local healthcare directories and community resources can provide insights into the number of primary care physicians practicing within the area.

The availability of primary care in Seltzer specifically is a vital component of this analysis. Seltzer, as a smaller community within the ZIP code, may have limited access compared to more populated areas. Understanding the distribution of primary care practices within Seltzer, including their patient load, is essential. Are there any practices that are particularly well-regarded for their geriatric care or their experience in managing patients with cognitive decline?

Beyond primary care, access to specialists is crucial. Neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists play a vital role in diagnosing, treating, and managing Alzheimer's disease. The presence of these specialists within the ZIP code or in nearby areas significantly impacts the quality of care available. Travel time to specialist appointments can be a major factor for patients and their caregivers.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Patients with Alzheimer's often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups is crucial for providing holistic care. Are there any community mental health centers in the area? Do local hospitals offer psychiatric services? Are there support groups specifically for caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's? The presence of these resources can greatly improve the quality of life for both patients and their families.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists within ZIP code 17974 is an important consideration. Does the area have providers offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or online support groups? Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and provide timely support.

Standout practices within the area could be identified through various means. Patient reviews, peer recommendations, and information from local healthcare organizations can provide insights into the quality of care offered by different practices. Are there any practices that have a particular focus on geriatric care or that are known for their expertise in managing patients with Alzheimer's? Do they have dedicated staff trained in dementia care? Do they offer comprehensive services, including memory screenings, care planning, and support for caregivers?

The quality of care extends beyond the direct provision of medical services. The availability of community resources, such as adult day care centers, home healthcare agencies, and respite care services, is crucial for supporting patients and their caregivers. Are these resources readily available within the ZIP code or in nearby areas? Do they offer specialized programs for individuals with Alzheimer's? Access to these resources can significantly impact the ability of patients to remain at home and maintain their independence.

Caregiver support is a critical element of Alzheimer's care. Caregivers often face significant emotional, physical, and financial burdens. The availability of support groups, educational programs, and respite care services can make a significant difference in their well-being. Are there any local organizations that offer caregiver support services? Do they provide resources for navigating the challenges of caregiving, such as legal and financial planning?

The presence of research and clinical trials related to Alzheimer's disease is another factor to consider. Are there any research centers or clinical trial sites within the area or in nearby regions? Participation in research can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and contribute to the advancement of knowledge about the disease.

Overall, the "Alzheimer's Score" for doctors in ZIP code 17974 and primary care availability in Seltzer would be a composite score based on several factors. These factors include the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialists, mental health resources, telemedicine adoption, the presence of standout practices, and the availability of community resources and caregiver support. A higher score would indicate greater access to comprehensive care and a more supportive environment for patients and their families.

This analysis highlights the complexities of assessing healthcare access and the importance of considering multiple factors. A comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape is essential for providing quality care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare resources in ZIP code 17974 and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, specialists, and support services, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. Their interactive maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the healthcare infrastructure in your area.