19118, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 19118, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.89 percent of the residents in 19118 has some form of health insurance. 32.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.06 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 19118 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,904 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19118. An estimate of 108 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,394 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 106,221 health care providers accessible to residents in 19118, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Primary Care in Philadelphia (ZIP Code 19118 Focus)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within Philadelphia, specifically focusing on the 19118 ZIP code, with a particular lens on factors relevant to Alzheimer's disease management. We aim to assess the "Alzheimer's Score" for this area, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources – all critical components in providing comprehensive care for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's.

The 19118 ZIP code, encompassing the Fox Chase and Burholme neighborhoods, presents a unique demographic profile that influences healthcare needs. The area is known for its older population, making it particularly vulnerable to age-related illnesses like Alzheimer's. Therefore, the availability and accessibility of PCPs equipped to diagnose, manage, and coordinate care for Alzheimer's patients are paramount.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Access:**

A fundamental aspect of the Alzheimer's Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally translates to better access to care, more time for appointments, and potentially more personalized attention. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios for specific ZIP codes are often difficult to obtain due to data privacy and dynamic physician movement, publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association can offer insights. Analyzing these sources, combined with data from health insurance providers, can provide an estimate of the PCP density in 19118. Furthermore, the overall availability of PCPs in Philadelphia significantly impacts the score for 19118 residents. If the city faces a general shortage of PCPs, access to care in 19118 will likely be negatively affected, regardless of the local concentration.

**Standout Practices and Specialized Care:**

The quality of primary care extends beyond simple access. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to geriatric care, cognitive assessments, and Alzheimer's management significantly boost the Alzheimer's Score. Practices that are known to be particularly adept at providing care for the elderly and those with cognitive impairments are important. Are there practices in 19118 or nearby that explicitly advertise expertise in geriatric medicine or memory care? Do these practices offer specialized services like cognitive screenings, memory clinics, or partnerships with neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists? Investigating the affiliations of local PCPs with hospitals and specialty centers, such as those at the University of Pennsylvania Health System or Jefferson Health, can reveal the availability of collaborative care models.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited access to specialists. The Alzheimer's Score is positively influenced by the adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in 19118. Does the practice offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, or even initial consultations? Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and allow for more frequent monitoring of patients with Alzheimer's. It is crucial to assess the technological infrastructure of local practices, including their ability to securely transmit patient data and their staff's proficiency in utilizing telehealth platforms.

**Mental Health Resources and Coordination of Care:**

Alzheimer's disease often presents with significant mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. The Alzheimer's Score is significantly impacted by the availability of mental health resources and the ability of PCPs to coordinate care with mental health professionals. Do PCPs in 19118 have established referral networks with psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists specializing in geriatric mental health? Do they actively screen patients for depression and other mental health conditions? Furthermore, the coordination of care is essential. Does the practice utilize electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate communication with specialists and other healthcare providers? A well-coordinated care system is crucial for ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and integrated care.

**Challenges and Considerations:**

Several factors can negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score. The financial burden of healthcare, including the cost of medications, specialist visits, and long-term care, can pose a significant challenge for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's. Transportation difficulties, especially for those with impaired mobility or cognitive function, can also limit access to care. Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as home healthcare, respite care, and support groups, is critical for caregivers. The Alzheimer's Score must consider the availability of these resources within the community.

**Conclusion:**

Assessing the Alzheimer's Score for 19118 requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources and care coordination. The goal is to determine the accessibility and quality of primary care services for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The findings of this analysis can inform residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers about the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare landscape in the area. Understanding these factors is crucial for improving the quality of life for individuals affected by Alzheimer's and ensuring that they receive the comprehensive care they need.

**Call to Action:**

To visualize and understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Philadelphia, including the concentration of PCPs, specialist locations, and the availability of support services, explore the interactive maps available from CartoChrome. These maps can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.