18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.44 percent of the residents in 18702 has some form of health insurance. 45.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.29 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 18702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,062 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18702. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,408 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,893 health care providers accessible to residents in 18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Wilkes-Barre, PA (ZIP Code 18702)

Evaluating the landscape of Alzheimer's care within Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on ZIP code 18702, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, reflecting the ease of access to quality care for individuals and families navigating this challenging disease.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care lies in accessible primary care. In Wilkes-Barre (18702), the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio within this ZIP code provides a preliminary understanding. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per resident, could signal potential challenges in securing timely appointments and ongoing care. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are crucial for determining this ratio accurately. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of primary care practices within the ZIP code is essential. Are practices clustered in certain areas, potentially creating access barriers for residents in other parts of 18702?

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the expertise of physicians in recognizing early signs of cognitive decline, conducting initial assessments, and providing appropriate referrals. The "Alzheimer's Score" must factor in the training and experience of local primary care physicians in managing patients with memory concerns. Are they actively involved in continuing medical education (CME) focused on dementia care? Do they utilize standardized cognitive screening tools during routine check-ups? These factors contribute significantly to the early detection and management of Alzheimer's disease.

Specialized care is another key component of the "Alzheimer's Score." The presence of neurologists, geriatricians, and memory care specialists within or near 18702 is a significant indicator of the quality of care available. These specialists possess the expertise to diagnose Alzheimer's, develop personalized treatment plans, and provide ongoing support to patients and their families. Investigating the number of specialists, their affiliations with hospitals or clinics, and their acceptance of various insurance plans is crucial. Are there dedicated memory care clinics or programs within the area? Do these clinics offer comprehensive services, including diagnostic testing, medication management, and support groups?

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly relevant, particularly in the context of healthcare access. The "Alzheimer's Score" must assess the availability of telehealth services offered by local primary care physicians and specialists. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients who have mobility issues or live in areas with limited access to specialists. Are physicians offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management through telehealth platforms? The adoption of telemedicine can significantly enhance the quality of care for Alzheimer's patients.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease profoundly impacts both patients and their caregivers, often leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The "Alzheimer's Score" must evaluate the availability of mental health services within 18702. Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists who specialize in geriatric mental health or dementia care? Do these mental health professionals collaborate with primary care physicians and specialists to provide integrated care? The availability of support groups for patients and caregivers is also a crucial factor in the overall "Alzheimer's Score."

Standout practices within 18702 deserve special recognition. Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in Alzheimer's care is important. This includes practices that have a strong track record of early diagnosis, comprehensive care coordination, and patient-centered approaches. Factors to consider include the use of evidence-based treatments, participation in clinical trials, and positive patient feedback. These standout practices can serve as models for other providers in the area.

Evaluating the resources available to caregivers is also a crucial part of the "Alzheimer's Score" analysis. Caregivers often bear a significant burden, and access to support services can make a huge difference in their ability to provide care. This includes access to respite care, home healthcare services, and educational resources. Are there local organizations that offer caregiver training programs or support groups? Are there resources available to help caregivers navigate the financial and legal aspects of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's?

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not simply a numerical ranking. It's a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare ecosystem within 18702, reflecting the availability, accessibility, and quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. It is a dynamic assessment, and it should be updated regularly. This is because healthcare landscapes are constantly changing.

Ultimately, the goal is to empower individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's with the information they need to make informed decisions about their care. The "Alzheimer's Score" analysis, based on the factors discussed, provides a valuable starting point for navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's care in Wilkes-Barre.

To visualize the geographic distribution of physicians, specialists, and support services within 18702, and to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of resources and areas where access may be limited.