Health Scores Near 18214, Barnesville, Pennsylvania
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18214, Barnesville, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 97.85 percent of the residents in 18214 has some form of health insurance. 44.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.46 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 18214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 263 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18214. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 545 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,610 health care providers accessible to residents in 18214, Barnesville, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18214, Barnesville, Pennsylvania
| Alzheimers Score | 63 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 69 |
| Provider Score | 25 |
| Hospital Score | 62 |
| Travel Score | 55 |
| 18214 | Barnesville | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Alzheimer's Disease Score: Barnesville, PA (ZIP Code 18214) – A Primary Care Perspective
Analyzing the availability of primary care physicians and the overall healthcare landscape within Barnesville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18214) through the lens of Alzheimer's disease presents a multifaceted challenge. The score isn't a single number but a complex evaluation of factors crucial for effective Alzheimer's care, including physician access, resource availability, and the proactive integration of technologies. This analysis will delve into these areas, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.
Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care
The foundation of any Alzheimer's care plan lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Barnesville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can significantly impact access to timely diagnoses, regular check-ups, and ongoing management of the disease. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnosis, which is a significant detriment to early intervention strategies that can improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, is also essential. Barnesville's proximity to larger medical centers in surrounding areas, such as Pottsville and Hazleton, may mitigate some of the challenges associated with a lower physician-to-patient ratio, but travel time and transportation limitations remain crucial considerations.
Standout Practices and their Approaches
Identifying standout primary care practices in Barnesville requires a deep dive into their specific approaches to patient care, especially concerning cognitive health. Practices that proactively screen for cognitive decline, utilize standardized assessment tools, and offer patient education programs deserve recognition. Furthermore, practices that collaborate with specialists, such as geriatric psychiatrists and neuropsychologists, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a key indicator of quality. EHRs facilitate efficient information sharing, allowing for better coordination of care among different healthcare providers. This is particularly important for Alzheimer's patients, who often require care from multiple specialists.
Telemedicine Adoption: A Vital Bridge
Telemedicine offers a powerful solution to address geographical limitations and improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Barnesville. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices is a crucial factor in the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, which can significantly benefit patients and their caregivers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more frequent check-ins, reduce the need for travel, and offer support to caregivers who may be struggling to manage the disease at home. The availability of telehealth services for mental health is also particularly important.
Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component
Alzheimer's disease is not only a physical ailment; it profoundly impacts mental health. The availability of mental health resources in Barnesville is a critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. Access to psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups is essential for both patients and their caregivers. Caregivers often experience significant stress and emotional burden, and access to mental health services can help them cope with the challenges of caregiving. Support groups provide a valuable platform for sharing experiences, receiving emotional support, and learning coping strategies. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also highly desirable.
The Alzheimer's Score: A Holistic View
The Alzheimer's Score for Barnesville, PA (ZIP code 18214) is not a simple metric but a comprehensive assessment. It reflects the interplay of physician access, specialist availability, technology adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to diagnose, treat, and support individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. A lower score highlights areas where improvements are needed. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the healthcare system in Barnesville is meeting the needs of its residents.
Recommendations and Future Considerations
To improve the Alzheimer's Score, Barnesville should focus on several key areas. First, efforts to recruit and retain primary care physicians and specialists are crucial. Second, promoting the adoption of telemedicine among primary care practices can significantly enhance access to care. Third, expanding the availability of mental health services, including support groups and therapy, is essential. Fourth, fostering collaboration between primary care practices, specialists, and community organizations will improve care coordination. Finally, raising awareness about Alzheimer's disease and its impact on the community can encourage early detection and intervention.
The Alzheimer's Score should be viewed as a dynamic measure that evolves with the healthcare landscape. Regular assessments and adjustments are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, technology adoption, and the availability of resources. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that provides the best possible care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.
Unlock Deeper Insights with CartoChrome Maps
For a detailed visual representation of healthcare resources in Barnesville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and mental health facilities, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape, identify areas of need, and make informed decisions about your healthcare options. Contact CartoChrome today to discover how their mapping tools can empower you with critical information about Alzheimer's care in your community.
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