18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.44 percent of the residents in 18224 has some form of health insurance. 48.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.76 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 18224 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,381 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18224. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,311 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,602 health care providers accessible to residents in 18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Freeland, PA (ZIP Code 18224)**

The effective management of Alzheimer's disease requires a comprehensive approach, encompassing early diagnosis, consistent primary care, access to specialized neurology, and readily available mental health support. This analysis assesses the availability of these crucial elements within the Freeland, PA area (ZIP code 18224), focusing on the resources available to individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's. The aim is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" that reflects the overall preparedness of the local healthcare ecosystem to address this complex disease.

The foundation of any Alzheimer's care plan is the primary care physician (PCP). In Freeland, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio offers an initial glimpse into access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, could potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with physician directories, can help calculate this ratio. The ideal scenario involves a sufficient number of PCPs to ensure timely access for all residents, including those seeking initial screening or ongoing management of Alzheimer's symptoms.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and specialization of primary care practices are crucial. Are there practices within the 18224 ZIP code that actively promote geriatric care? Do they have specific programs or staff trained in memory care or cognitive assessments? Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to senior health, including routine cognitive screenings, are likely to score higher in this analysis. These practices will be better equipped to identify early signs of Alzheimer's and initiate appropriate referrals to specialists.

The presence of neurologists and geriatricians is a key indicator of a robust Alzheimer's care system. While Freeland itself may not have these specialists, the proximity to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Hazleton or Wilkes-Barre is essential. The analysis must consider the travel time and ease of access to these specialized providers. A shorter travel time and a well-established referral network between local PCPs and neurology/geriatric practices contribute to a higher Alzheimer's Score. Furthermore, the availability of specialized diagnostic tools, such as advanced imaging (MRI, PET scans), is a significant factor.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local primary care practices and specialists can significantly improve access to care. The analysis should evaluate the extent to which telehealth services are offered, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially mitigate the challenges of geographical limitations and provide more convenient access to care for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Mental health support is an integral component of Alzheimer's care. The disease often brings emotional and psychological challenges for both the patient and their family. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is critical. The analysis should assess the number of mental health providers within the 18224 ZIP code and the surrounding area. Are there support groups or counseling services specifically tailored to individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers? Access to these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

The analysis should also consider the availability of other supportive services, such as home healthcare agencies, adult day care centers, and respite care programs. These services provide crucial support to caregivers, allowing them to maintain their own well-being while caring for their loved ones. The presence of these resources, and their accessibility, significantly impacts the overall Alzheimer's Score.

Evaluating the local pharmacy landscape is also important. Are there pharmacies within the 18224 ZIP code that offer medication adherence programs or specialized services for individuals with Alzheimer's? These programs can help ensure that patients take their medications as prescribed, which is essential for managing the disease.

The Alzheimer's Score for Freeland, PA (18224) is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. It should be updated regularly to account for changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the development of new resources. The score should be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed, with greater weight given to factors that have a more direct impact on patient care.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and concise picture of the healthcare resources available to individuals with Alzheimer's in Freeland. It aims to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to inform efforts to improve the quality of care for those affected by this devastating disease. This understanding is crucial for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's.

For a more detailed and visually comprehensive understanding of healthcare resources in Freeland, PA, and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and proximity to support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides dynamic maps that can help you visualize the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your care.