18249, Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18249, Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.65 percent of the residents in 18249 has some form of health insurance. 31.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.02 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 18249 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 777 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18249. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 906 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,662 health care providers accessible to residents in 18249, Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania.

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) presents a significant challenge, especially in rural areas like Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania, within the 18249 ZIP code. This analysis aims to provide an Alzheimer's Score assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) in this area, considering factors crucial for effective AD management. The score will reflect the availability and quality of care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. This assessment is not a definitive medical recommendation but rather a snapshot of the local healthcare landscape concerning AD.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per patient, can strain resources and potentially limit the time a PCP can dedicate to each patient, including those with AD. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health will be crucial in determining the population size and the number of practicing PCPs within the 18249 ZIP code. This data will be compared to national averages to gauge whether Sugarloaf faces a physician shortage. A low physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a proactive approach to AD care. This includes early detection programs, cognitive assessments, and comprehensive care plans. Practices that actively participate in research or clinical trials related to AD would also receive higher marks. These practices often employ specialized staff, such as geriatricians, neurologists, and social workers, who are trained in AD management. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the presence of these specialists within the practices serving the 18249 area.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients who have difficulty traveling. It can also facilitate remote monitoring and consultations with specialists. Practices that offer telemedicine services, especially for cognitive assessments and follow-up appointments, will receive a higher score. The score will evaluate the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access, and the availability of technical support for patients.

Mental health resources are essential for AD patients and their caregivers. AD often leads to behavioral changes, depression, and anxiety. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and providing support. The Alzheimer's Score will assess the availability of mental health services in the 18249 ZIP code, including the number of mental health professionals, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services for AD patients and their families.

The Alzheimer's Score will incorporate these factors into a composite rating. Each factor will be weighted based on its importance in AD care. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of mental health resources will likely be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption. The final score will provide a relative ranking of the primary care landscape in Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania, concerning AD care.

Data collection will involve several steps. First, a comprehensive search of online physician directories and healthcare provider databases will be conducted to identify all PCPs practicing within the 18249 ZIP code. Then, each practice will be researched to gather information on physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialists, telemedicine services, and mental health resources. This information will be verified through direct contact with the practices, if possible.

The analysis will also consider the availability of support groups and community resources for AD patients and their caregivers. These resources can provide valuable emotional support, education, and practical assistance. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the presence and accessibility of these resources in the Sugarloaf community.

The Alzheimer's Score will not only evaluate the current state of care but also identify areas for improvement. This information can be used to advocate for increased resources, improved access to care, and the development of new programs to support AD patients and their families in the 18249 ZIP code.

The final Alzheimer's Score will be presented as a numerical rating, accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology and the factors considered. The score will be accompanied by recommendations for improving AD care in the area. This information will be valuable for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers in Sugarloaf.

The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to technology can all create barriers to care for AD patients. The Alzheimer's Score will reflect the impact of these factors on the overall quality of care in the 18249 ZIP code.

The Alzheimer's Score will also consider the availability of educational resources for patients and caregivers. These resources can help them understand the disease, manage symptoms, and access support services. The score will assess the availability of educational materials, workshops, and online resources in the Sugarloaf community.

The goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the primary care landscape in Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania, regarding AD care. This information can be used to improve the quality of care, increase access to resources, and support AD patients and their families in the community. The analysis will be a valuable tool for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers in the 18249 ZIP code.

To visualize the healthcare landscape and pinpoint the locations of these critical resources, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a dynamic and interactive platform to understand geographic data, allowing you to visualize physician locations, mental health facilities, and support services within the 18249 ZIP code and beyond. Use CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to you and your loved ones.