18211, Andreas, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18211, Andreas, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.52 percent of the residents in 18211 has some form of health insurance. 45.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.46 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 18211 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 225 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18211. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 279 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,716 health care providers accessible to residents in 18211, Andreas, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimers Score Analysis: Andreas, PA (18211)

This analysis assesses the preparedness of Andreas, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18211) and its surrounding medical infrastructure for addressing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. The evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Alzheimers Score' analysis, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the community's capacity to support individuals and families affected by this debilitating illness.

Andreas, nestled within Schuylkill County, is a small, primarily rural community. Its demographic profile, including a potentially aging population, necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare, particularly concerning age-related conditions like Alzheimer's. The availability and quality of primary care physicians form the bedrock of early detection, diagnosis, and ongoing management of the disease.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Andreas is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of primary care physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Data from the US Department of Health and Human Services, and similar sources, would need to be consulted to determine the exact ratio within the 18211 ZIP code and surrounding areas. This data would then be compared to state and national averages to ascertain whether Andreas faces a shortage of primary care providers. A concerningly low ratio would negatively impact the 'Alzheimers Score.'

Beyond the sheer number of physicians, the quality and specialization of care are equally important. Are primary care physicians in the area equipped with the knowledge and resources to effectively screen for and diagnose Alzheimer's? Do they have access to specialized geriatricians, neurologists, or memory care specialists? The presence of such specialists within a reasonable distance significantly enhances the 'Alzheimers Score.' A robust network of specialists allows for accurate diagnosis, comprehensive care planning, and access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.

Identifying standout practices within the area is crucial. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care might offer memory screenings, cognitive assessments, patient and caregiver education programs, and support groups. These practices would be considered positive contributors to the 'Alzheimers Score.' The practices' integration of technology, such as electronic health records that facilitate care coordination, would also be a positive factor.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to care for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The availability of telemedicine services for neurology, psychiatry, and geriatric care would significantly boost the 'Alzheimers Score.' The ease of access, user-friendliness of the technology, and the level of support provided to patients using telemedicine services would also be considered.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms and supporting both patients and their caregivers. The availability of these resources within the community, including the presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups, would positively influence the 'Alzheimers Score.' The ability to provide mental health services in conjunction with primary care would be highly valued.

The quality of care also depends on the availability of support services. These include home healthcare agencies, adult day care centers, and respite care services. These resources provide crucial support to caregivers, allowing them to continue caring for their loved ones while also maintaining their own well-being. The existence and accessibility of these support services would be factored into the 'Alzheimers Score.'

The analysis would also consider the availability of resources for financial assistance, such as Medicaid and Medicare programs, as well as other programs designed to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. The availability of these resources would be a positive factor.

In conclusion, the 'Alzheimers Score' for Andreas, PA (18211) would be determined by a holistic assessment of all these factors. A strong score would indicate a community well-prepared to address the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, with a sufficient number of primary care physicians, access to specialists, telemedicine capabilities, robust mental health resources, and a network of support services. A low score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, or a lack of support services.

To gain a visual understanding of the medical landscape in Andreas, including the locations of physicians, specialists, and support services, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of healthcare resources, making it easier to identify gaps in care and understand the geographical distribution of services.