18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.14 percent of the residents in 18056 has some form of health insurance. 25.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.37 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 18056 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 294 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 40 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18056. An estimate of 94 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 195 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 43,900 health care providers accessible to residents in 18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: Hereford, PA (ZIP Code 18056)

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, specifically concerning Alzheimer's care, in Hereford, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18056), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all of which contribute to an "Alzheimers Score" for the region. This score, while not a formal metric, reflects the overall preparedness of the community to address the needs of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning a limited number of physicians available to serve a large population, can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate follow-up care, and increased patient burden. While precise figures for ZIP code 18056 are difficult to obtain without proprietary data, we can infer some details. Hereford is a rural community, and rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. Therefore, it is likely that the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for primary care physicians and neurologists, is less favorable compared to more urbanized areas. This scarcity can significantly impact the timely detection and management of Alzheimer's.

Identifying standout medical practices within the area is crucial. These practices often serve as benchmarks for quality of care. In the absence of readily available public data, we can look for indicators of excellence. This might include practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, those with accredited geriatric specialists, or those that actively participate in clinical trials related to Alzheimer's disease. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive memory evaluations, and provide support services for caregivers would also be considered highly valuable. The presence of such practices would positively influence the "Alzheimers Score."

Telemedicine adoption is another essential factor. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and consultations that might otherwise be unavailable in a rural setting. It allows for remote monitoring, medication management, and virtual support groups, which can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration within local practices is therefore critical. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring systems, and online educational resources. High adoption rates would contribute positively to the "Alzheimers Score."

The availability of mental health resources is particularly important. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore crucial for managing these symptoms and improving the overall well-being of patients and their families. This includes the availability of individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups specifically designed for caregivers. The presence of readily accessible mental health resources would significantly enhance the "Alzheimers Score."

Furthermore, the accessibility of diagnostic tools is critical. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for initiating timely treatment and care planning. This includes the availability of cognitive assessments, neuroimaging facilities (such as MRI and PET scans), and access to specialists who can interpret these results. The proximity of these diagnostic resources directly impacts the speed and accuracy of diagnosis, which in turn influences the overall care provided.

Beyond the direct medical aspects, the community's support infrastructure plays a significant role. This includes the availability of assisted living facilities, memory care units, home healthcare services, and respite care for caregivers. These services provide essential support for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families, allowing them to maintain their quality of life and manage the challenges of the disease. The presence of robust support services would contribute favorably to the "Alzheimers Score."

Another important consideration is the level of community awareness and education regarding Alzheimer's disease. This includes public awareness campaigns, educational programs for healthcare professionals, and support groups for individuals and families affected by the disease. A well-informed community is better equipped to recognize the early signs of Alzheimer's, seek timely medical attention, and provide appropriate support to those affected.

In conclusion, determining a definitive "Alzheimers Score" for Hereford, PA (ZIP code 18056) requires a comprehensive assessment of the factors mentioned above. While the rural nature of the community may present challenges, the presence of dedicated medical professionals, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health and support resources can significantly impact the quality of care provided. Understanding the specific characteristics of the local healthcare landscape is crucial for developing effective strategies to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in Hereford, PA (ZIP code 18056), including the location of medical practices, the availability of resources, and other relevant data points, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare infrastructure, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of the community's preparedness to address the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.