18347, Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18347, Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.56 percent of the residents in 18347 has some form of health insurance. 49.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.87 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 18347 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 107 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18347. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,126 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,923 health care providers accessible to residents in 18347, Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score: Analyzing Primary Care in Pocono Lake (ZIP Code 18347)

Evaluating the preparedness of a community for the challenges of Alzheimer's disease requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," focuses on the availability and quality of primary care within Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18347). This includes examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and understanding the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the local healthcare landscape and its capacity to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's.

The first crucial element is the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within ZIP code 18347 requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the American Medical Association. However, Pocono Lake is a relatively small community. It is likely that residents rely on PCPs located in surrounding towns like Pocono Pines, Lake Harmony, or even further afield in areas like Stroudsburg or Scranton. This geographic spread complicates the calculation of a precise ratio, but it highlights a potential challenge: the need for residents to travel for care. A low physician-to-patient ratio, or a ratio that reflects a significant reliance on PCPs outside the immediate ZIP code, could indicate potential access issues, especially for individuals with mobility limitations often associated with Alzheimer's.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several factors. These include the availability of comprehensive geriatric care, which focuses on the unique needs of older adults. Practices with physicians who are board-certified in geriatrics or have extensive experience in managing age-related conditions are highly valuable. Another key consideration is the practice's approach to cognitive assessment and early detection of Alzheimer's. Do they routinely screen for cognitive decline? Do they have established referral pathways to neurologists or specialists in memory care? Practices that prioritize these aspects demonstrate a proactive approach to Alzheimer's care. Patient reviews, available through online platforms, can also provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in the context of Alzheimer's care. Telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Virtual consultations can facilitate medication management, provide support for caregivers, and offer access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires several elements. These include access to reliable internet connectivity, patient comfort with technology, and the ability of physicians to conduct effective virtual examinations. The success of telemedicine in Pocono Lake will depend on the infrastructure available and the willingness of both patients and providers to embrace this technology.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for managing these symptoms and supporting both patients and their caregivers. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care programs can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's. Assessing the availability of these resources within Pocono Lake and the surrounding areas is a critical component of the Alzheimer's Score.

The analysis must consider the integration of primary care with other healthcare services. Strong coordination between PCPs, neurologists, mental health professionals, and social workers is essential for providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate information sharing and the establishment of clear communication channels between different providers. Practices that actively participate in care coordination efforts are better equipped to meet the complex needs of Alzheimer's patients.

Another factor is the availability of specialized memory care facilities. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the proximity and accessibility of assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities, and memory care units are vital for individuals in later stages of Alzheimer's. The presence of these resources within a reasonable distance from Pocono Lake can significantly impact the quality of life for patients and their families.

Furthermore, community awareness and education play a vital role. Public health initiatives, educational programs, and support groups can help raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease, reduce stigma, and empower individuals and families to seek early diagnosis and support. The level of community engagement in Alzheimer's-related activities is a key indicator of preparedness.

Finally, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of this analysis. Obtaining comprehensive data on physician practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources can be challenging. Publicly available information may be incomplete or outdated. This analysis should be considered a starting point for a more in-depth investigation, and it should be continuously updated as new information becomes available.

In conclusion, assessing the Alzheimer's Score for Pocono Lake (ZIP code 18347) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care access, the quality of physician practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the level of community support. The findings will determine the current state of preparedness for the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. To visualize the healthcare landscape of Pocono Lake and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, healthcare facilities, and support services, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome.