Health Scores Near 18324, Bushkill, Pennsylvania
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18324, Bushkill, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 97.15 percent of the residents in 18324 has some form of health insurance. 36.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.40 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 18324 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 2,178 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18324. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,134 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,435 health care providers accessible to residents in 18324, Bushkill, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18324, Bushkill, Pennsylvania
| Alzheimers Score | 14 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 13 |
| Provider Score | 27 |
| Hospital Score | 49 |
| Travel Score | 43 |
| 18324 | Bushkill | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge for communities, especially those with aging populations. Access to quality healthcare, including primary care and specialized geriatric services, is crucial for early diagnosis, effective management, and support for patients and their families. This analysis examines the availability of healthcare resources in ZIP code 18324 (Bushkill, Pennsylvania), focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care, and provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment.
The primary care landscape in Bushkill forms the foundation of Alzheimer's care. Primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline. Their ability to recognize early symptoms, conduct initial assessments, and refer patients to specialists is critical. Assessing primary care availability involves considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the number of PCPs practicing within the area, and their acceptance of new patients. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates greater access to care.
In Bushkill, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall ratio in the Pocono region, including 18324, tends to be a concern. Rural areas often experience shortages of healthcare professionals, making it more difficult for residents to secure timely appointments. This scarcity directly impacts the ability of individuals to receive prompt evaluations for cognitive concerns.
Beyond the number of PCPs, the quality of primary care is essential. Practices that prioritize geriatric care, offer comprehensive assessments, and have established referral pathways to neurologists and other specialists are highly valuable. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to ongoing training for their staff in the latest Alzheimer's diagnostic and treatment protocols.
Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate among PCPs in Bushkill is a key indicator of the community's ability to address the needs of Alzheimer's patients. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, which can be a significant barrier for individuals with mobility issues or those living in remote locations.
The presence of mental health resources is another critical element. Alzheimer's disease frequently co-occurs with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who specialize in geriatric care is essential for providing comprehensive support to patients and their caregivers. The availability of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options further enhances the overall quality of care.
Evaluating the "Alzheimer's Score" for Bushkill involves synthesizing these factors. A high score would reflect a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, a significant number of practices with geriatric expertise, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score would indicate challenges in these areas, potentially leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Standout practices within the 18324 ZIP code, if any, would be those that demonstrate a proactive approach to Alzheimer's care. This includes actively screening patients for cognitive impairment, utilizing validated assessment tools, and establishing strong partnerships with specialists and support organizations. These practices often invest in staff training and education to ensure they are up-to-date on the latest advancements in Alzheimer's research and treatment.
The availability of specialized geriatric services, such as neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists, is another important consideration. While PCPs can provide initial assessments, specialized expertise is often needed for accurate diagnosis and management of the disease. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists directly impact the quality of care available to patients in Bushkill.
Caregiver support is a vital component of Alzheimer's care. The disease places a significant burden on family members and other caregivers. The availability of resources like support groups, educational programs, and respite care services can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.
The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a static metric; it evolves over time. Changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources can impact the score. Regular monitoring and evaluation are necessary to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the community is meeting the needs of its residents affected by Alzheimer's disease.
In conclusion, the assessment of healthcare resources in Bushkill, Pennsylvania (18324) reveals a complex landscape. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of geriatric expertise, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources all contribute to the overall "Alzheimer's Score." Understanding these factors is essential for developing strategies to improve access to care, support patients and their families, and ultimately, enhance the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's disease.
To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bushkill and visualize the distribution of resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that can help you identify healthcare providers, assess access to care, and gain valuable insights into the community's healthcare infrastructure. Explore CartoChrome maps today to visualize the data and gain a clearer picture of the healthcare resources available in your community.
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