18248, Sheppton, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18248, Sheppton, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.01 percent of the residents in 18248 has some form of health insurance. 31.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.89 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 18248 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 165 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18248. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 96 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,790 health care providers accessible to residents in 18248, Sheppton, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18248 and Primary Care in Sheppton**

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare for Alzheimer's patients in a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 18248, encompassing the town of Sheppton, Pennsylvania, and aims to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment. This score, though not a formal, standardized metric, will reflect the accessibility, resources, and overall support system available for individuals facing Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

The first critical element is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Sheppton, being a smaller community, likely faces challenges in this area. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key indicator. A higher ratio (fewer doctors per capita) suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and establishing consistent care. Researching the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas is crucial. This includes not only general practitioners but also internal medicine specialists, as they often serve as the initial point of contact for health concerns, including cognitive decline.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves assessing the PCPs' experience with geriatric care and their familiarity with the early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's. Do they routinely screen for cognitive impairment? Do they have established protocols for referring patients to specialists, such as neurologists or geriatricians, for further evaluation and diagnosis? This information can be gathered through online reviews, healthcare directories, and, if possible, direct inquiries to the practices.

The next area of focus is the presence of specialists. Neurologists and geriatricians are essential for diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's disease. Their availability within or near ZIP code 18248 significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. The distance patients must travel to access these specialists, the waiting times for appointments, and the overall accessibility of these services all contribute to the score. A lack of local specialists necessitates longer travel times, potentially increasing stress and burden on patients and caregivers.

Mental health resources are another critical component. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who specialize in geriatric mental health is essential. These professionals can provide both medication management and therapeutic interventions to help patients and their families cope with the challenges of the disease. The presence of support groups for caregivers is equally important, offering a space for sharing experiences, receiving emotional support, and accessing valuable information.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations with PCPs, neurologists, and mental health professionals, can significantly improve access to care for patients in Sheppton. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients and caregivers to receive timely and convenient care. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the extent to which local healthcare providers offer telehealth options and the availability of reliable internet access in the area.

Standout practices deserve recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care can positively influence the overall score. This might include practices that:

* Have dedicated memory care clinics.
* Offer comprehensive cognitive assessments.
* Provide educational resources for patients and families.
* Participate in clinical trials related to Alzheimer's.
* Have staff trained in dementia care.

These practices can serve as models for other providers in the area, contributing to a higher standard of care.

The availability of community resources is also a factor. This includes adult day care centers, assisted living facilities with memory care units, and home healthcare services specializing in Alzheimer's. These resources provide essential support for patients and caregivers, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life for as long as possible. The presence and accessibility of these resources directly impact the Alzheimer's Score.

Analyzing the financial aspects of care is important, too. Understanding the insurance coverage accepted by local providers and the availability of financial assistance programs for Alzheimer's patients can significantly influence the score. The cost of care, including medications, specialist visits, and long-term care, can be a significant burden on families. Information on available financial resources is essential for families.

Finally, the Alzheimer's Score should consider the overall awareness and understanding of Alzheimer's disease within the community. This includes the presence of public health campaigns, educational programs, and community events aimed at raising awareness and reducing stigma. A well-informed community is more likely to provide support and understanding to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

In conclusion, assessing the Alzheimer's Score for doctors in ZIP code 18248 and primary care availability in Sheppton requires a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors. This includes the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the availability of specialists and mental health resources, telemedicine adoption, the presence of standout practices, the availability of community resources, financial aspects, and community awareness. A higher score reflects a more supportive and accessible healthcare environment for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in the area and to explore the geographic distribution of providers and services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed, interactive view of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 18248 and surrounding areas.