18240, Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18240, Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.71 percent of the residents in 18240 has some form of health insurance. 46.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.79 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 18240 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 737 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18240. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 862 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,656 health care providers accessible to residents in 18240, Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Nesquehoning, PA (ZIP Code 18240)**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare resources, particularly concerning Alzheimer's disease, within Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18240) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of mental health support, and the overall physician-to-patient ratio. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, offering insights into the accessibility and quality of care for individuals and families navigating the challenges of this debilitating disease.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests on the shoulders of primary care physicians. They serve as the initial point of contact, providing screenings, diagnosis, and ongoing management of the disease. The availability of PCPs in Nesquehoning is crucial. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate limited access to timely appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from healthcare directories, would provide the necessary data for calculating this ratio. This ratio is a key component in determining the "Alzheimer's Score".

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Does the practice offer comprehensive cognitive assessments? Are physicians knowledgeable about the latest Alzheimer's treatments and clinical trials? Do they have established referral pathways to specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians? These factors significantly impact the "Alzheimer's Score". Practices demonstrating a proactive approach to cognitive health, including regular screenings for at-risk patients, would receive higher marks.

The adoption of telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, making it easier for patients to connect with their physicians. The "Alzheimer's Score" will reflect the extent to which practices in Nesquehoning utilize telemedicine platforms. Practices embracing telehealth will be viewed more favorably.

Mental health support is an integral part of Alzheimer's care. The disease can lead to significant emotional and psychological challenges for both patients and their caregivers. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore essential. The "Alzheimer's Score" will consider the proximity and accessibility of these resources. Are there local mental health clinics? Do practices have partnerships with mental health providers? The presence of robust mental health support will positively influence the overall score.

Identifying standout practices is critical. Some primary care providers may have developed specialized programs or demonstrated a commitment to providing exceptional Alzheimer's care. These practices might have dedicated staff trained in dementia care, offer support groups for caregivers, or participate in research studies. Highlighting these practices will provide valuable information to patients and families seeking the best possible care.

Evaluating the accessibility of specialists is also a key component of the "Alzheimer's Score". While PCPs are the first line of defense, access to neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists is crucial for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and management of Alzheimer's disease. The distance to these specialists, the availability of appointments, and the ability to obtain referrals from primary care physicians will all be considered.

Another factor that influences the "Alzheimer's Score" is the availability of resources for caregivers. Alzheimer's disease places a significant burden on caregivers, and access to support services, such as respite care, educational programs, and support groups, can make a tremendous difference. The "Alzheimer's Score" will reflect the presence of these resources in the Nesquehoning area.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment reflecting the evolving healthcare landscape. It's crucial to regularly update this score as new practices emerge, telemedicine adoption increases, and mental health resources expand. This ongoing evaluation ensures that the assessment remains relevant and provides the most accurate picture of the care available in Nesquehoning.

The analysis will consider the availability of memory care facilities. These facilities provide specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The proximity of these facilities, the quality of care they provide, and their ability to meet the specific needs of patients will be considered. The presence of high-quality memory care facilities will positively impact the "Alzheimer's Score".

Furthermore, the analysis will delve into the availability of community resources. Senior centers, libraries, and other community organizations often offer programs and services that can benefit individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. The "Alzheimer's Score" will take into account the presence of these resources.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Nesquehoning, PA (ZIP code 18240) will be determined by a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialist access, caregiver support, and community resources. This score will provide valuable insights into the accessibility and quality of care for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease in this community.

For a more detailed, interactive map of healthcare resources in Nesquehoning and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and mental health facilities, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps.