18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 18818 has some form of health insurance. 38.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.47 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 18818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 248 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 230 health care providers accessible to residents in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Friendsville, PA (ZIP Code 18818)

The assessment of Alzheimer's care accessibility and quality within the Friendsville, PA ZIP code 18818 necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, incorporating factors like physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, aims to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" reflecting the area's capacity to serve individuals and families affected by this devastating disease. Due to the limitations of publicly available data, this analysis relies on publicly available information, and anecdotal evidence, and is therefore an estimation.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Friendsville, the assessment of primary care availability is critical. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, poses a significant challenge. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient during consultations, and ultimately, decreased access to timely diagnoses and ongoing care. The scarcity of PCPs can also impact the ability to coordinate care, a crucial element in managing Alzheimer's.

Beyond the raw numbers, the characteristics of the existing primary care practices are vital. Are the practices equipped with the necessary resources to diagnose and manage Alzheimer's? This includes access to cognitive assessment tools, partnerships with specialists (neurologists, geriatricians), and staff trained in dementia care. Practices with a demonstrable commitment to geriatric care, including specialized training for nurses and support staff, would naturally contribute positively to the "Alzheimer's Score."

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, has demonstrated its potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to healthcare. For individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas like Friendsville, telemedicine offers a valuable means of accessing consultations, medication management, and ongoing support. Practices that actively integrate telemedicine into their service offerings will receive a higher score. This includes the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the utilization of digital platforms for patient education and communication.

The availability of mental health resources is inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health is therefore essential. The accessibility of these services, including the acceptance of insurance and the availability of support groups, significantly impacts the overall care landscape. The presence of memory care centers or specialized Alzheimer's units within local facilities would also positively influence the score.

Specific practices within the 18818 ZIP code, if identified, would be individually assessed. Their commitment to Alzheimer's care would be evaluated based on several criteria. This includes the presence of a dedicated geriatric care program, the availability of specialized diagnostic tools (e.g., cognitive assessments), the integration of telemedicine, and the provision of patient and caregiver education resources. Practices that proactively participate in community outreach programs related to Alzheimer's awareness and education would be recognized for their contributions.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the overall ecosystem of care. It is a measure of the community's preparedness to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. The score considers the availability of physicians, the quality of their practices, the integration of technology, and the availability of mental health support. A high score would indicate a robust and accessible care environment, while a low score would highlight areas needing improvement.

The Friendsville area's score is likely impacted by its rural nature. Rural communities often face challenges in healthcare access, including physician shortages and limited access to specialized services. This can be particularly acute for conditions like Alzheimer's, which require a multidisciplinary approach to care. The lack of specialists, coupled with the potential for longer travel distances to access care, could negatively affect the score.

Caregiver support is another critical element. Alzheimer's places a significant burden on caregivers, often leading to stress, burnout, and social isolation. The availability of support groups, respite care services, and educational programs for caregivers is vital. These resources provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community, helping caregivers navigate the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's. The existence of these resources, or the lack thereof, would impact the score.

The analysis of the 18818 ZIP code's Alzheimer's care landscape reveals potential areas for improvement. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio, enhancing the integration of telemedicine, and expanding mental health resources are crucial steps. Strengthening caregiver support systems is also essential. This analysis, while based on available information, serves as a starting point for a more comprehensive assessment.

Ultimately, improving the "Alzheimer's Score" requires a collaborative effort. This includes healthcare providers, community organizations, government agencies, and individuals. By working together, the community can create a more supportive and accessible environment for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. The goal is to ensure that everyone has access to the care, support, and resources they need to live with dignity and quality of life.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Friendsville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice details, and resource availability, explore CartoChrome maps.