18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.51 percent of the residents in 18619 has some form of health insurance. 53.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.15 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 18619 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18619. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 42 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 185 health care providers accessible to residents in 18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Hillsgrove, PA (ZIP Code 18619)

Analyzing the availability of Alzheimer's care within Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18619) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers primary care physician (PCP) accessibility, the presence of specialized geriatric care, mental health support, and the integration of technology like telemedicine. A comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" is difficult to quantify precisely without detailed proprietary data, but we can provide a qualitative assessment based on publicly available information and general healthcare trends.

The core of Alzheimer's care often begins with primary care. In Hillsgrove, the availability of PCPs is a crucial starting point. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A higher ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau can help estimate the population within the ZIP code. Comparing this population with the number of practicing PCPs in the area provides a preliminary understanding of accessibility. Areas with lower ratios (more doctors) generally score higher in this category.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and characteristics of the available primary care practices matter. Do practices accept Medicare and Medicaid, which are critical for many Alzheimer's patients and their families? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Are they equipped to handle the complex needs of older adults, perhaps through geriatric-trained physicians or nurses? These factors contribute significantly to the overall score.

Specialized geriatric care is another critical element. While PCPs often manage initial assessments and ongoing care, access to geriatricians, neurologists, and neuropsychologists is vital for diagnosis, treatment planning, and disease management. The presence of these specialists within the ZIP code or in nearby areas, such as Williamsport or Scranton, is a significant positive factor. The closer the proximity, the better. Transportation challenges, especially for those with cognitive impairments, can significantly impact access to specialized care.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Patients and caregivers often experience significant emotional distress, including depression, anxiety, and caregiver burnout. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups within the community is therefore crucial. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups specifically tailored to Alzheimer's patients and their families would significantly enhance the score. Information on these resources can be found through local health departments, hospitals, and Alzheimer's Association chapters.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important in healthcare, and particularly relevant for Alzheimer's care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with specialists, medication management, and remote monitoring of patients' conditions. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring, are likely to score higher. This is especially important in rural areas like Hillsgrove, where travel distances can be a barrier to care.

Specific practices in the area may stand out based on their commitment to geriatric care. While a comprehensive assessment requires in-depth research, some practices may be known for their expertise in geriatric medicine, their patient-centered approach, or their integration of technology. Identifying and highlighting these standout practices is essential for guiding patients and caregivers to the best possible care. This could involve looking at patient reviews, awards, or affiliations with reputable healthcare systems.

Caregiver support is another critical consideration. The burden of caregiving for Alzheimer's patients can be immense. The availability of respite care services, support groups, and educational programs for caregivers is a significant factor in the overall score. These resources can help caregivers manage their own well-being and provide better care for their loved ones.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Hillsgrove, PA (ZIP Code 18619) is likely to be moderate. The rural nature of the area presents challenges in terms of physician availability and access to specialized care. While the presence of PCPs is essential, the availability of geriatric specialists and mental health resources may be limited. Telemedicine adoption could be a significant advantage, mitigating some of the geographical barriers. The presence of strong caregiver support programs would also be a positive factor.

To summarize, the analysis suggests that while the area has the potential to provide adequate care, improvements in physician-to-patient ratios, access to specialists, and mental health resources would significantly enhance the quality of care available to Alzheimer's patients and their families in Hillsgrove. The integration of telemedicine and robust caregiver support programs is also vital.

This analysis provides a general overview. For a more detailed and personalized assessment, a comprehensive search of local healthcare providers, resources, and support systems is essential. The information provided here should be considered a starting point for further investigation.

For a visual representation of physician locations, primary care availability, and the proximity of specialized services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. They can provide a powerful visual tool for understanding the healthcare landscape in Hillsgrove and identifying potential areas for improvement.