18453, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18453, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.19 percent of the residents in 18453 has some form of health insurance. 38.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.27 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 18453 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 325 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18453. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 297 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 722 health care providers accessible to residents in 18453, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Pleasant Mount, PA (ZIP Code 18453)

Analyzing the availability of resources and healthcare professionals equipped to address Alzheimer's disease within Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18453) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," considers factors crucial for effective patient care, including physician density, primary care accessibility, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support. We'll examine these elements to provide a nuanced understanding of the local landscape and its capacity to serve individuals impacted by this debilitating illness.

Pleasant Mount, a rural community, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. National averages often mask the realities of rural healthcare. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can severely limit access to timely diagnoses, specialized care, and ongoing management for Alzheimer's patients. Investigating the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 18453 is the starting point. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are essential to determine the number of primary care physicians, neurologists, geriatricians, and psychiatrists practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas.

Primary care availability is intrinsically linked to early detection and management of Alzheimer's. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. The ease with which patients can secure appointments, particularly for comprehensive assessments, is a key factor. This includes considering wait times, insurance acceptance, and the overall responsiveness of local practices. Evaluating the number of primary care practices accepting new patients and the average appointment wait times for routine check-ups and cognitive assessments is crucial.

Standout practices, if any, warrant specific attention. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care, perhaps through specialized programs, staff training, or partnerships with local support groups, would significantly elevate the Alzheimer's Score. This could include practices that utilize standardized cognitive screening tools, offer memory clinics, or actively participate in clinical trials. These practices, if present, serve as valuable resources for the community and should be highlighted.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital component of this analysis. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, offering remote consultations, monitoring, and support for patients and caregivers. Investigating the availability of telemedicine services within local practices, especially those specializing in neurology or geriatrics, is essential. This includes assessing the types of services offered (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring), the platforms used, and the level of patient and caregiver support provided. The ability to access care remotely can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often brings about significant emotional and psychological challenges for both patients and their families. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the local area is therefore paramount. This includes assessing the number of providers, their areas of specialization (e.g., geriatric psychiatry), their acceptance of insurance, and the availability of support groups or counseling services for both patients and caregivers.

Beyond the direct healthcare providers, the presence of community support systems also influences the Alzheimer's Score. This includes organizations like the Alzheimer's Association, which provide education, support groups, and resources for patients and families. Assessing the local chapter's activities, the accessibility of its services, and its overall impact on the community is an essential part of the evaluation.

The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, is not a single number but a composite of these factors. It requires a thorough assessment of the local healthcare landscape, considering both the quantity and quality of available resources. The score would ideally reflect the ease of access to primary care, the availability of specialized care, the integration of telemedicine, the presence of mental health support, and the strength of community resources.

The analysis must also acknowledge the limitations of a rural setting. Resource scarcity is a common challenge. The Alzheimer's Score for Pleasant Mount might reflect a lower level of resources compared to more urban areas. The analysis must, therefore, consider the context of the community and assess the effectiveness of the available resources within that context.

The final Alzheimer's Score would be a reflection of the overall capacity of the local healthcare system to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. It would serve as a valuable tool for patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and policymakers, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local system and informing efforts to improve care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in Pleasant Mount, PA (ZIP Code 18453) is crucial for assessing the community's ability to support individuals with Alzheimer's disease. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

For a more detailed, visual, and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pleasant Mount and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice specializations, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a dynamic platform for mapping and analyzing healthcare data, allowing you to gain deeper insights into the availability of resources and the challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's disease.