18254, Tresckow, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18254, Tresckow, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.97 percent of the residents in 18254 has some form of health insurance. 41.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.74 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 18254 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 294 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18254. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 193 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,804 health care providers accessible to residents in 18254, Tresckow, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Tresckow, PA (ZIP Code 18254)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within the Tresckow, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18254) area. The focus is on primary care physicians, specialist availability, and supporting mental health services, crucial components in managing the disease and supporting those affected. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" perspective, evaluating the area's preparedness to address the needs of individuals and families dealing with this complex condition.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with primary care physicians (PCPs). In Tresckow, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Physician-to-patient ratios are a primary indicator. A low ratio, meaning a small number of doctors serving a large population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from insurance providers, can help estimate this ratio within the 18254 ZIP code. A thorough analysis would also consider the age distribution of the population, as the risk of Alzheimer's increases with age. A higher percentage of older residents would necessitate a greater concentration of medical resources.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the doctors’ experience in diagnosing and managing cognitive decline, their willingness to refer patients to specialists, and their ability to communicate effectively with patients and their families. A key element is the physician's familiarity with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options. This includes knowledge of cognitive assessments and access to memory clinics. Reviewing online patient feedback, if available, can offer insights into physician communication skills, empathy, and responsiveness.

Specialist availability is another crucial element. Neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists are essential for comprehensive Alzheimer's care. The proximity of specialists to Tresckow is a vital consideration. If residents must travel long distances to access these specialists, it presents challenges for patients and caregivers, especially given the progressive nature of the disease. The presence of memory clinics or specialized Alzheimer's centers within a reasonable radius significantly enhances the "Alzheimer's Score." These centers often offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, support groups, and access to clinical trials.

The adoption of telemedicine in the region can also impact the score. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Tresckow. Virtual consultations with specialists, remote monitoring of symptoms, and online support groups can improve the quality of life for patients and caregivers. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are an integral part of Alzheimer's care. The disease often brings about anxiety, depression, and behavioral changes in both the patient and their caregivers. Access to mental health professionals, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is essential. The availability of support groups for caregivers is equally critical. These groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, coping strategies, and emotional support. The presence of social workers who can assist with navigating the complexities of healthcare, insurance, and legal matters also enhances the score.

Standout practices within the 18254 area, if any, would positively influence the score. This could include practices that have implemented specialized memory care programs, offer comprehensive geriatric assessments, or actively participate in Alzheimer's research. Identifying these practices would require a detailed review of local healthcare providers, including their websites, patient testimonials, and any publicly available information about their services.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Tresckow, PA (ZIP Code 18254) is therefore a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate excellent access to primary care physicians, a robust network of specialists, readily available mental health resources, and the adoption of telemedicine. Conversely, a low score would reflect challenges in these areas, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and increased stress for patients and their families.

To achieve a more comprehensive assessment, data from several sources would need to be integrated. This includes information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the US Census Bureau, insurance providers, and local healthcare providers. The analysis should also consider the unique characteristics of the community, such as its demographics, socioeconomic factors, and access to transportation.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Tresckow and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, specialists, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, identify potential gaps in care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.