19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.63 percent of the residents in 19034 has some form of health insurance. 24.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.32 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 19034 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,702 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19034. An estimate of 42 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,229 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 38,778 health care providers accessible to residents in 19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Fort Washington, PA (ZIP Code 19034)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care physicians and related resources within Fort Washington, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19034), specifically focusing on their capacity to address the needs of individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. The 'Alzheimer's Score' is a composite measure reflecting the accessibility, expertise, and support systems available within the local healthcare landscape.

Fort Washington, a suburban community, presents a unique profile for Alzheimer's care. The population demographics, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, significantly influence the demand for and the capacity of local healthcare providers. Analyzing these factors is crucial for determining the effectiveness of the healthcare ecosystem in addressing the challenges posed by Alzheimer's disease.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

A critical component of the Alzheimer's Score is the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly concerning primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing cognitive decline and play a vital role in early detection, diagnosis, and management of Alzheimer's. The availability of PCPs directly impacts the ability of individuals to access timely and appropriate care.

In Fort Washington (19034), the physician-to-patient ratio needs careful examination. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and national databases can provide insights into the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data, coupled with population estimates, provides a preliminary assessment of access. Areas with a lower physician-to-patient ratio generally receive a higher score, indicating greater ease of access to primary care.

The availability of appointments is another crucial factor. Long wait times for appointments can delay diagnosis and treatment, exacerbating the progression of Alzheimer's. The ability of practices to accommodate new patients and offer flexible scheduling options is also important. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient access will receive higher scores.

**Standout Practices and Expertise**

Certain practices within Fort Washington may demonstrate exceptional capabilities in Alzheimer's care. These practices often possess specialized expertise, such as physicians with advanced training in geriatrics or neurology. They may also have established protocols for cognitive screening, diagnosis, and management of Alzheimer's and related conditions.

Identifying these standout practices involves researching the credentials of physicians, their affiliations with hospitals or specialty centers, and their participation in continuing medical education related to dementia care. Practices that utilize evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment, and that demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development, will earn higher scores.

Furthermore, the presence of multidisciplinary teams within a practice significantly enhances its Alzheimer's Score. This includes the availability of nurses, social workers, therapists, and other healthcare professionals who can provide comprehensive support to patients and their families. Practices that foster a collaborative approach to care, involving specialists and community resources, are better equipped to meet the complex needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for delivering healthcare services, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Fort Washington is a key factor in the Alzheimer's Score analysis.

Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual support services receive higher scores. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce the burden on patients and caregivers, and facilitate ongoing monitoring of cognitive function. The ability to conduct virtual follow-up appointments, provide medication management, and offer educational resources through telemedicine platforms can significantly enhance the quality of Alzheimer's care.

The integration of technology is also important. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals facilitate communication, streamline care coordination, and improve the overall patient experience. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to technological innovation receive higher scores.

**Mental Health Resources and Support Systems**

Alzheimer's disease often co-occurs with mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbances. The availability of mental health resources within Fort Washington is a crucial component of the Alzheimer's Score.

The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists who specialize in geriatric mental health is essential. Access to mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management, is vital for addressing the emotional and psychological needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Practices that collaborate with mental health providers and offer integrated care models receive higher scores.

Support systems for caregivers are equally important. Alzheimer's caregivers often experience significant stress and burden. The availability of support groups, educational programs, and respite care services can help caregivers cope with the challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's. Practices that actively connect patients and caregivers with these resources receive higher scores.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The Alzheimer's Score analysis for Fort Washington, PA (19034) provides a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease. By evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources, this analysis offers valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

To further explore the healthcare resources in Fort Washington and gain a visual understanding of physician locations, service areas, and demographic data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can help you visualize healthcare data, identify areas of need, and make informed decisions about your health and the health of your loved ones.