18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.29 percent of the residents in 18510 has some form of health insurance. 37.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.96 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 18510 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,679 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18510. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,855 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,022 health care providers accessible to residents in 18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Alzheimer's disease, a neurodegenerative condition, presents a significant challenge for healthcare systems globally. Within the context of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and specifically the 18510 ZIP code, understanding the landscape of care for Alzheimer's patients requires a nuanced analysis. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," will evaluate the availability and quality of care, focusing on primary care physicians, mental health resources, telemedicine adoption, and physician-to-patient ratios.

The 18510 ZIP code, encompassing a portion of Scranton, demands careful scrutiny. The "Alzheimer's Score" here considers the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) as the initial point of contact for patients and their families. A crucial aspect is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The availability of PCPs who specialize in geriatric care or have experience with cognitive impairments is also vital. These specialists are better equipped to recognize early signs of Alzheimer's and to initiate appropriate diagnostic procedures.

Scranton's primary care landscape needs assessment. A robust network of primary care physicians is crucial for early detection and ongoing management of Alzheimer's. The "Alzheimer's Score" will consider the presence of practices with a dedicated focus on geriatric care, including those that offer memory screenings and cognitive assessments. The integration of these practices with local hospitals and specialists, such as neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists, is another critical factor. Strong referral pathways are essential for ensuring that patients receive timely and appropriate care.

The "Alzheimer's Score" will also evaluate the availability of mental health resources. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. Access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is crucial for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers. The presence of support groups and counseling services for caregivers is equally important. These resources provide emotional support, education, and practical advice for navigating the challenges of caring for someone with Alzheimer's.

Telemedicine adoption is another key component of the "Alzheimer's Score." Telemedicine offers significant advantages for Alzheimer's patients, particularly those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Virtual consultations can provide access to specialists, facilitate medication management, and offer remote monitoring of patients' health. The availability of telemedicine services among primary care physicians and specialists in the 18510 ZIP code will be evaluated. The ease of access to these services and the technological infrastructure supporting them are also important considerations.

Specific practices within the 18510 ZIP code warrant examination. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to Alzheimer's care, such as those actively participating in clinical trials or offering specialized memory care programs, will receive higher scores. The integration of these practices with community resources, such as the Alzheimer's Association, is also a positive indicator. The "Alzheimer's Score" will look for practices that prioritize patient education and caregiver support.

The "Alzheimer's Score" will also consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in Scranton. The presence of hospitals with specialized memory care units or geriatric departments is a positive factor. The availability of skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities that provide specialized care for Alzheimer's patients is also crucial. The coordination between these different levels of care is a key factor in ensuring continuity of care and preventing fragmentation.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not just a numerical rating; it's a holistic assessment of the care environment for Alzheimer's patients in the 18510 ZIP code. This assessment considers the availability of primary care physicians, the presence of mental health resources, the adoption of telemedicine, and the overall healthcare infrastructure. The score will be used to identify areas of strength and weakness in the current system and to inform strategies for improving care.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimer's Score" for the 18510 ZIP code will reflect the complex interplay of factors that influence the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The availability of primary care physicians, mental health resources, telemedicine adoption, and the overall healthcare infrastructure all play a crucial role. The score will serve as a valuable tool for understanding the current state of care and for identifying opportunities for improvement.

If you're seeking a visual representation of healthcare resources in the Scranton area, including physician locations, facility locations, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the power of interactive mapping. Discover the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the population they serve. Visit CartoChrome maps today to visualize the healthcare landscape and gain deeper insights into the accessibility of care in your community.