19136, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 19136, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.08 percent of the residents in 19136 has some form of health insurance. 46.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.57 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 19136 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9,644 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19136. An estimate of 103 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,446 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 100,020 health care providers accessible to residents in 19136, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The complexities of Alzheimer's disease extend far beyond the individual patient, impacting families, communities, and healthcare systems. Assessing the quality of care available for Alzheimer's patients requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the expertise of individual physicians but also the broader availability of resources and support within a given geographic area. This analysis will examine the landscape of Alzheimer's care in ZIP Code 19136 (Philadelphia) and the context of primary care availability in Philadelphia, evaluating key factors that contribute to a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score."

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians. In Philadelphia, primary care availability is a critical determinant of the overall Alzheimer's score. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or inadequate management of the disease. Philadelphia, like many urban centers, faces challenges in physician distribution, with some areas experiencing shortages. The impact of this shortage is felt disproportionately by vulnerable populations, including those at higher risk for Alzheimer's.

Within ZIP Code 19136, the availability of primary care physicians is a crucial element. An analysis of the physician-to-patient ratio in this specific area, compared to the city average, would be a starting point. This ratio provides a baseline understanding of access. Furthermore, the demographics of the area, including the age distribution and socioeconomic factors, are important considerations. Areas with a higher proportion of elderly residents and those with limited access to transportation or financial resources may experience greater challenges in accessing care.

Beyond physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. Some practices stand out due to their commitment to geriatric care and their expertise in cognitive health. These practices often have physicians with specialized training in geriatrics or neurology, nurses trained in dementia care, and support staff who are knowledgeable about the unique needs of Alzheimer's patients and their families. These practices may offer comprehensive services, including cognitive assessments, medication management, and referrals to specialists.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to offer virtual consultations can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited physician availability. Telemedicine can facilitate remote monitoring, medication adjustments, and support group participation. The extent to which primary care practices in 19136 and throughout Philadelphia have embraced telemedicine is a critical component of the Alzheimer's score. Practices that have integrated telemedicine into their care models are likely to receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved access.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. The availability of these resources within 19136 and the broader Philadelphia area is a critical factor in the Alzheimer's score. Practices that have established strong referral networks with mental health providers, or that offer in-house mental health services, are likely to be better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

The availability of support groups and caregiver resources is also essential. Alzheimer's disease places a significant burden on caregivers, who often experience stress, burnout, and isolation. Support groups, educational programs, and respite care services can provide invaluable assistance. The presence of these resources within the community, and the extent to which primary care practices connect patients and families with these resources, is a significant factor in the overall Alzheimer's score. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to these resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic care.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine is also important. Electronic health records (EHRs) can improve care coordination and facilitate communication between physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can streamline the care process, reduce errors, and improve patient outcomes. The interoperability of EHRs, allowing for seamless exchange of information between different healthcare systems, is also a crucial consideration.

The Alzheimer's score for doctors in ZIP Code 19136 and the broader primary care landscape in Philadelphia is a dynamic measure, influenced by a multitude of factors. It is not simply a matter of individual physician expertise, but also the broader healthcare ecosystem in which they operate. The availability of physicians, the quality of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the presence of caregiver support services all contribute to the overall score.

Analyzing these factors requires a comprehensive approach, utilizing data from various sources, including physician directories, patient surveys, and public health records. The resulting Alzheimer's score would be a valuable tool for patients, families, and healthcare providers, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Philadelphia, including physician locations, practice specializations, and resource availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of physicians, assess the availability of specialized services, and gain insights into the overall healthcare environment.