18846, Sugar Run, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18846, Sugar Run, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.63 percent of the residents in 18846 has some form of health insurance. 39.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.83 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 18846 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 149 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18846. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 202 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 566 health care providers accessible to residents in 18846, Sugar Run, Pennsylvania.

The analysis that follows provides an assessment of Alzheimer's care accessibility and related healthcare infrastructure within the ZIP code 18846, specifically focusing on the Sugar Run, Pennsylvania area. This evaluation considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in supporting individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's disease.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care rests on robust primary care. In Sugar Run, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. The analysis begins with an assessment of the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating a limited number of PCPs relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment plans. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access to care and the potential for more personalized attention.

The specific physician-to-patient ratio in 18846, and the surrounding Bradford County, requires careful examination. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into the number of PCPs practicing in the area and the estimated population they serve. This data must be cross-referenced with local healthcare directories and insurance provider networks to determine the actual accessibility of these physicians to residents of Sugar Run. A detailed investigation would also consider the age distribution of the population, as older demographics are at higher risk for Alzheimer's and often require more frequent medical attention.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. The analysis would identify standout practices in the area. These practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care and cognitive health. This can be evaluated through several indicators. Does the practice have physicians with specific training in geriatrics or neurology? Does the practice offer comprehensive memory screenings? Are there established protocols for managing patients with cognitive impairment?

The presence of ancillary services within the primary care practices is also significant. The availability of on-site laboratory testing, imaging services, and pharmacy services can streamline the diagnostic process and treatment plan, reducing the burden on patients and caregivers. Furthermore, the integration of care coordination services, such as nurse navigators or social workers, can be invaluable in helping patients and families navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers and improve access to specialists, particularly neurologists and geriatricians, who may be in short supply in rural areas like Sugar Run. The analysis would evaluate the extent to which primary care practices in 18846 offer telemedicine consultations. This would involve assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely (e.g., medication management, cognitive assessments), and the technological infrastructure in place to support telemedicine (e.g., secure video conferencing platforms, patient portals).

The presence of mental health resources is inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms and supporting the overall well-being of patients and their caregivers. The analysis would identify mental health providers serving the Sugar Run area, including their specialties, appointment availability, and acceptance of insurance plans.

The availability of support groups and educational programs for caregivers is also critical. Caregivers often experience significant stress and burnout. Support groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, receiving emotional support, and learning coping strategies. Educational programs can provide caregivers with the knowledge and skills they need to manage the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's. The analysis would identify local support groups and educational resources, such as those offered by the Alzheimer's Association or local hospitals.

The assessment of Alzheimer's care in Sugar Run, Pennsylvania (18846) requires a multifaceted approach. The physician-to-patient ratio is a starting point, but it must be complemented by an evaluation of the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health and caregiver support resources. This comprehensive analysis will provide a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape and the challenges and opportunities for improving Alzheimer's care in the community.

The final assessment would provide a ranking, based on the factors described above. The ranking would reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of Alzheimer's care available in the area. This score would be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers in identifying areas for improvement and advocating for better care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sugar Run, including the location of primary care practices, mental health providers, and support resources, explore CartoChrome maps. These maps offer an interactive and informative way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.