Alzheimers Score

18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

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Provider Score in 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.39 percent of the residents in 18705 has some form of health insurance. 43.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.54 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 18705 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,167 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18705. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,990 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,985 health care providers accessible to residents in 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

Health Scores in 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania

Alzheimers Score 56
People Score 17
Provider Score 76
Hospital Score 30
Travel Score 78

Provider Type in a 20-Mile Radius

18705 Wilkes Barre 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

Provider Score Review of 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania

## Unveiling the Alzheimer's Score: A Deep Dive into Wilkes-Barre's Healthcare Landscape

The challenge of Alzheimer's disease demands a comprehensive approach to healthcare. This analysis, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," evaluates the availability and quality of primary care within Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18705), focusing on factors crucial for supporting individuals and families navigating this complex condition. We'll examine physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health resources, painting a picture of the healthcare ecosystem's preparedness to address the needs of those impacted by Alzheimer's.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. In Wilkes-Barre, the ratio of primary care physicians to the general population directly impacts the ability of individuals to secure timely appointments for initial screenings, ongoing management, and referrals to specialists. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access. However, this metric alone doesn't tell the whole story. The age and health profiles of the population, the concentration of specialists, and the efficiency of appointment scheduling all play significant roles. Analyzing publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, alongside data from healthcare provider directories, provides a starting point for understanding the local physician landscape.

Within Wilkes-Barre, certain primary care practices stand out due to their specific attributes relevant to Alzheimer's care. Some practices may have developed specialized programs for geriatric care, offering comprehensive assessments and management plans tailored to the needs of older adults. Others might prioritize cognitive assessments as part of their routine checkups, enabling early detection and intervention. Practices that have established strong referral networks with neurologists, neuropsychologists, and other specialists are particularly valuable. These networks facilitate seamless transitions for patients requiring specialized care, minimizing delays and improving overall outcomes. Evaluating the online presence of practices, including their websites and patient reviews, can reveal insights into their focus on geriatric care, patient communication, and the availability of support services.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions and providing access to care in underserved areas. In the context of Alzheimer's, telemedicine can offer several advantages. It can facilitate virtual consultations with physicians, allowing for regular check-ins, medication management, and support for caregivers. Telemedicine can also be used to connect patients with specialists located outside of Wilkes-Barre, expanding access to expertise that might otherwise be unavailable. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine among primary care practices in the area is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointment options, the ease of use of the technology, and the practice's commitment to providing technical support to patients.

The mental health needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers are often significant. The disease itself can lead to behavioral changes, mood swings, and cognitive decline, while caregivers face immense emotional and physical challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including psychiatrists, therapists, and support groups, is therefore critical. Evaluating the presence of mental health providers within Wilkes-Barre, their areas of expertise, and their willingness to work with patients affected by Alzheimer's is essential. This includes assessing the availability of individual therapy, family therapy, and support groups specifically designed for caregivers. Collaborations between primary care practices and mental health providers can enhance the coordination of care and improve patient outcomes.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Wilkes-Barre, therefore, is not a single number but a multifaceted assessment. It considers the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized geriatric care programs, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a healthcare system that is better equipped to support individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

To truly understand the geographical distribution of these resources, and to identify potential gaps in care, mapping is invaluable. CartoChrome maps can visualize physician locations, practice specializations, and the availability of mental health services, creating a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape. This visual representation can help patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers make informed decisions about accessing care and coordinating services. It can also inform policy decisions aimed at improving healthcare access and quality.

The evaluation of primary care availability in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18705) and the creation of an "Alzheimer's Score" is an ongoing process. Regular updates and refinements are needed to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape and to ensure that the analysis remains relevant and useful.

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Health Scores Near 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania

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