18635, Nescopeck, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18635, Nescopeck, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.88 percent of the residents in 18635 has some form of health insurance. 35.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.11 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 18635 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 731 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18635. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 801 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 769 health care providers accessible to residents in 18635, Nescopeck, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Nescopeck, PA (ZIP Code 18635)

Analyzing the availability of healthcare resources for Alzheimer's patients in Nescopeck, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18635) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis assesses the landscape of primary care physicians, their capacity to manage Alzheimer's patients, the integration of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health support systems. We will evaluate these factors to generate an "Alzheimer's Score," offering insights into the quality of care available within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests on the shoulders of primary care physicians (PCPs). Their ability to diagnose, manage symptoms, and coordinate specialized care is critical. However, the physician-to-patient ratio in Nescopeck and the surrounding Luzerne County can significantly impact access. Data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and similar sources should be consulted to ascertain the precise ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, presents a challenge, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced patient-physician interaction.

Identifying the specific number of PCPs practicing within the 18635 ZIP code is crucial. This includes both general practitioners and internal medicine specialists. Furthermore, understanding their individual patient loads is essential. Are these physicians accepting new patients? Do they have experience managing patients with cognitive decline? These factors directly influence the accessibility of care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the qualifications and experience of the PCPs are paramount. Do they possess certifications or training in geriatrics or dementia care? Are they familiar with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options for Alzheimer's disease? The level of specialized knowledge within the primary care network is a key determinant of the Alzheimer's Score.

The presence of standout practices within the area can elevate the overall score. These practices might be distinguished by their commitment to geriatric care, offering specialized memory clinics, or integrating innovative approaches to patient management. Identifying these exemplary practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, assessing online reviews, and researching the services they offer. Practices that actively participate in research or clinical trials related to Alzheimer's would also contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine is rapidly transforming healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption by local PCPs is a significant factor in this analysis. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for routine check-ups, medication management, or follow-up appointments? Telemedicine can improve access to care for patients who have difficulty traveling, which is often the case for individuals with Alzheimer's. The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as wearable devices that track vital signs or activity levels, can also enhance the quality of care.

Mental health resources are integral to the care of Alzheimer's patients and their families. The disease not only impacts the individual's cognitive abilities but also often leads to depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists in the area is critical. Assessing the accessibility of these mental health professionals, including wait times and insurance acceptance, is part of the analysis. Support groups for both patients and caregivers are also vital. These groups provide emotional support, education, and a sense of community.

The integration of mental health services with primary care is another important consideration. Does the practice have a collaborative relationship with mental health providers? Are there on-site mental health professionals? This integration can streamline care and improve outcomes.

To calculate the Alzheimer's Score, a weighted system must be established. Each factor – physician-to-patient ratio, physician qualifications, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – would be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The score would then be calculated based on the performance of the available resources in each category. For example, a low physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score, while a practice with a dedicated memory clinic would positively influence it.

The final score would be presented as a number or a rating, such as a letter grade (A-F) or a star rating (1-5 stars). This score would provide a concise overview of the quality of Alzheimer's care available in Nescopeck.

It is important to acknowledge the limitations of this analysis. The accuracy of the score depends on the availability and reliability of data. Publicly available information may not always reflect the full picture of the healthcare landscape. Furthermore, the analysis does not account for individual patient experiences or preferences.

The Alzheimer's Score is intended to be a starting point for understanding the healthcare resources available in Nescopeck. It can be used by patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers to identify areas for improvement and to make informed decisions about care.

The analysis would ideally include a detailed breakdown of the specific practices within the 18635 ZIP code, including their contact information, services offered, and patient reviews. This information would provide valuable insights for individuals seeking care.

In conclusion, the Alzheimer's Score for Nescopeck, PA, would provide a valuable assessment of the local healthcare landscape. It would highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the system, offering a roadmap for improvement and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their care. This analysis emphasizes the importance of accessible primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health support.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources in Nescopeck and the surrounding area, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help you visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, providing a comprehensive overview of the care landscape.