Health Scores Near 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania
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The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 96.59 percent of the residents in 18655 has some form of health insurance. 42.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.42 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 18655 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,007 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18655. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,327 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,217 health care providers accessible to residents in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18655, Shickshinny, Pennsylvania
| Alzheimers Score | 32 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 29 |
| Provider Score | 68 |
| Hospital Score | 28 |
| Travel Score | 42 |
| 18655 | Shickshinny | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Shickshinny, PA (ZIP Code 18655)
The following analysis assesses the availability of primary care physicians and associated resources relevant to Alzheimer's care within Shickshinny, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18655). This evaluation considers factors influencing access to care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support. The ultimate goal is to provide an Alzheimer's Score, reflecting the overall preparedness of the community to address the needs of individuals and families affected by this debilitating disease.
Shickshinny, a small borough in Columbia County, faces unique challenges in healthcare access due to its rural setting and limited population. The availability of primary care physicians is a critical first step in the diagnosis, management, and ongoing care of Alzheimer's patients. These physicians often serve as the initial point of contact, coordinating specialist referrals and providing essential support to patients and their caregivers.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**
Accurately determining the physician-to-patient ratio in Shickshinny requires up-to-date data, which can fluctuate. However, based on publicly available information and broader trends in rural Pennsylvania, it's reasonable to assume a lower physician density compared to more urban areas. This means that each primary care physician likely serves a larger patient population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased patient loads, and potentially reduced time spent with each patient. This is a crucial factor in determining the Alzheimer's Score.
The availability of primary care is also impacted by the geographic distribution of physicians. If a significant portion of the population relies on physicians located outside the immediate ZIP code, access becomes even more challenging. Transportation limitations, particularly for elderly individuals, can further exacerbate this issue, making it difficult to attend appointments and receive timely care.
**Standout Practices and Specialized Care:**
Identifying "standout" practices in a small community requires a closer examination of the quality of care provided. This includes the training and experience of the physicians, the services offered, and the overall patient experience. While there may not be specialized Alzheimer's clinics within the ZIP code, the presence of practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, memory screenings, or early dementia detection would be highly beneficial. This could involve physicians with specific training in geriatrics or neurology, or practices that offer cognitive assessments as part of their routine care.
The existence of partnerships with local hospitals or healthcare systems is another important factor. These partnerships can facilitate referrals to specialists, access to advanced diagnostic tools, and coordinated care plans. Such collaborations are particularly crucial for Alzheimer's patients, who often require a multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, psychiatrists, and other healthcare professionals.
**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**
Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care in rural areas like Shickshinny. It allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. The adoption of telemedicine among primary care practices in the area is a key consideration. Practices that offer telehealth services, such as virtual consultations or remote monitoring, can provide more timely and accessible care for patients with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.
The availability of telemedicine is not just about technology; it also depends on the willingness of physicians to embrace this approach, the availability of reliable internet access, and the ability of patients to navigate the technology. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the level of telemedicine adoption and its accessibility to the local population.
**Mental Health Resources and Support:**
Alzheimer's disease has a profound impact on mental health, both for the patient and their caregivers. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups.
The presence of local mental health clinics, counseling services, or support groups specifically for Alzheimer's patients and their families is highly desirable. These resources can provide essential emotional support, coping strategies, and education. The availability of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.
**Overall Alzheimer's Score and Conclusion:**
Based on the factors discussed above, a preliminary Alzheimer's Score for Shickshinny, PA (ZIP Code 18655) would likely reflect the challenges associated with rural healthcare access. The lower physician density, potential transportation limitations, and the need for improved telemedicine adoption and mental health resources would likely contribute to a lower score. However, the specific score would depend on the availability of updated data and a more detailed assessment of the local healthcare landscape.
The Alzheimer's Score serves as a valuable tool for identifying areas where improvements are needed. It can inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations about the specific needs of the population and guide efforts to enhance the quality of care for individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease.
To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in Shickshinny and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, practice types, and other relevant data.
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