18235, Lehighton, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18235, Lehighton, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.62 percent of the residents in 18235 has some form of health insurance. 38.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.49 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 18235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,756 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18235. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,645 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,164 health care providers accessible to residents in 18235, Lehighton, Pennsylvania.

## Lehighton's Healthcare Landscape: An Alzheimer's Score Analysis

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within Lehighton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18235), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, structured as an "Alzheimer's Score," considers factors crucial for managing Alzheimer's disease, particularly the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), mental health resources, and innovative healthcare delivery methods. While a numerical score is not provided, this analysis offers a qualitative assessment based on available data and publicly accessible information, focusing on the elements most relevant to Alzheimer's care.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Lehighton, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical consideration. Precise figures are difficult to obtain without direct access to insurance claims data, but publicly available information, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health data and online physician directories, suggests a potential shortage of PCPs relative to the population. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. For individuals with Alzheimer's, timely access to a PCP is vital for managing comorbidities, coordinating specialist care, and receiving ongoing monitoring.

Within the Lehighton area, several practices stand out for their potential contributions to Alzheimer's care. Practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, such as those associated with St. Luke's University Health Network or Lehigh Valley Health Network, often offer more comprehensive services, including access to specialists (neurologists, geriatricians) and potentially, memory care clinics. Assessing the specific services offered by these practices, including their experience with patients with cognitive decline, is essential. Investigating the availability of care coordinators within these practices is also crucial, as care coordinators can assist with navigating the complex healthcare system and ensuring patients receive the appropriate support.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in the "Alzheimer's Score." Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, common issues for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. It allows for virtual consultations with PCPs, specialists, and mental health professionals. The availability of telemedicine services, including the ease of scheduling virtual appointments and the technical infrastructure supporting these services, directly impacts the accessibility of care. Examining which practices in Lehighton have embraced telemedicine and the extent of their telehealth offerings provides valuable insights.

Mental health resources are particularly important in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Lehighton involves examining the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Investigating the availability of support groups for caregivers is also critical, as these groups provide emotional support and practical advice.

Beyond the availability of physicians and mental health resources, other factors contribute to the "Alzheimer's Score." These include the presence of assisted living facilities and memory care units within the community. These facilities offer specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, providing a safe and supportive environment. Assessing the quality of these facilities, including their staffing ratios, staff training, and activities programs, is an important consideration.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as the local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, can significantly impact the quality of care. These organizations offer educational programs, support groups, and advocacy services for patients and caregivers. Their presence in the community indicates a commitment to supporting individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease.

The effectiveness of care also depends on the coordination between various healthcare providers. The ability of PCPs to communicate effectively with specialists, mental health professionals, and caregivers is crucial for ensuring seamless care. Assessing the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and the interoperability of these systems can provide insights into the level of coordination.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Lehighton, Pennsylvania, is therefore a complex assessment that goes beyond simply counting doctors. It requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of mental health resources, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of specialized care facilities, and the availability of community support. While specific data on these elements is often limited, a thorough investigation using publicly available information, online physician directories, and local community resources provides a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape.

The challenges in Lehighton's healthcare landscape, particularly regarding PCP availability and mental health resources, underscore the need for innovative solutions. Telemedicine, for example, can bridge geographical barriers and increase access to care. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and caregivers is essential for providing comprehensive and coordinated care. Furthermore, efforts to increase the number of healthcare professionals in the area, especially those specializing in geriatrics and neurology, are crucial for improving the "Alzheimer's Score."

To gain a more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lehighton and its surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and community resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a spatial representation of healthcare accessibility, allowing you to identify areas with limited resources and better understand the distribution of care.

**Click here to explore the potential of CartoChrome maps and visualize the healthcare landscape of Lehighton and beyond.**