The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 93.17 percent of the residents in 18706 has some form of health insurance. 51.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.99 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 18706 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 3,622 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18706. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,080 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,835 health care providers accessible to residents in 18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania
Alzheimers Score | 42 |
---|---|
People Score | 13 |
Provider Score | 80 |
Hospital Score | 30 |
Travel Score | 59 |
18706 | 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 |
The analysis below provides an assessment of primary care physicians in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18706), specifically focusing on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. It considers physician availability, access to mental health resources, telemedicine adoption, and other pertinent elements. This is not a definitive "Alzheimer's Score" in the traditional sense, but rather an evaluation of the healthcare landscape's suitability for individuals and families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.
Wilkes-Barre, a city in Luzerne County, presents a unique healthcare environment. Its proximity to larger metropolitan areas, coupled with its own established medical infrastructure, offers a mix of opportunities and challenges for those seeking Alzheimer's care. The availability of primary care physicians, the first point of contact for many, is a critical factor.
Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator of accessibility. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall physician density in the Wilkes-Barre area, including ZIP code 18706, can be described as moderate. This means that while there are physicians available, the patient load per physician may be significant. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less time dedicated to each patient during consultations. The need for specialized geriatric care, crucial in Alzheimer's diagnosis and management, further complicates the situation.
Standout practices within the 18706 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care and cognitive health. This includes practices that employ geriatricians or physicians with specialized training in geriatrics. These specialists possess a deeper understanding of the complexities of age-related diseases, including Alzheimer's, and can provide more comprehensive and tailored care. The presence of dedicated memory care clinics or programs within a practice is another positive indicator. These programs often offer specialized diagnostic tools, support groups, and care coordination services.
Telemedicine adoption is an increasingly important aspect of healthcare accessibility, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. The availability of telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care for Alzheimer's patients. This is particularly relevant for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing support to caregivers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide timely and convenient care.
Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease itself often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, and caregivers frequently experience significant stress and emotional challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore crucial. The presence of support groups, both for patients and caregivers, is also a vital component of a supportive care environment. These groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, receiving emotional support, and learning coping strategies. The availability of mental health services within the primary care setting or through referrals is a significant advantage.
The overall assessment of primary care availability in Wilkes-Barre (ZIP code 18706) for Alzheimer's care is nuanced. While the area benefits from a moderate physician density, the specific availability of geriatric specialists and the adoption of telemedicine technologies are key factors that influence the quality and accessibility of care. The presence of robust mental health resources and support groups is also essential for providing comprehensive care to patients and their families.
To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilkes-Barre, and to identify specific practices and resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provides a visual representation of healthcare providers, including their specialties, services, and geographical locations. This can be a valuable tool for patients and caregivers seeking to navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care.
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