19139, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 19139, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.94 percent of the residents in 19139 has some form of health insurance. 55.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.99 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 19139 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,761 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 512 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19139. An estimate of 90 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,436 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 96,031 health care providers accessible to residents in 19139, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Philadelphia (19139) & Primary Care

The challenge of providing adequate care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia is multifaceted, requiring a robust healthcare infrastructure, readily accessible primary care, and specialized resources. This analysis focuses on the specific context of ZIP code 19139 in Philadelphia, evaluating its Alzheimer's care landscape by assessing primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources. This comprehensive assessment culminates in an “Alzheimer’s Score,” providing a nuanced understanding of the area's strengths and weaknesses in meeting the needs of those affected by this devastating disease.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care rests on the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). They are often the first point of contact for individuals exhibiting cognitive decline. In Philadelphia, and specifically within the 19139 ZIP code, assessing primary care availability involves scrutinizing the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced time dedicated to each patient, impacting thoroughness of initial assessments and ongoing management. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data, such as that from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into the PCP-to-population ratio within 19139. This data, coupled with information on the number of PCPs accepting new patients, forms a critical component of the Alzheimer's Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and specialization of primary care practices are crucial. Identifying “standout practices” involves evaluating their experience in geriatric care, their willingness to conduct cognitive screenings, and their collaboration with specialists. Practices demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care often have physicians with specialized training or certifications in geriatrics. These practices are more likely to be familiar with the nuances of diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's, offering a more comprehensive approach to care. Furthermore, practices that routinely conduct cognitive screenings, such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), are better equipped to identify early signs of cognitive decline.

The integration of telemedicine has significantly impacted healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to specialists or those facing mobility challenges. Telemedicine offers a convenient and accessible platform for consultations, medication management, and even remote monitoring. Its adoption rate within 19139’s primary care practices directly influences the Alzheimer's Score. Practices embracing telemedicine, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in underserved areas, demonstrate a commitment to improving access to care. This includes the availability of virtual consultations with neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists involved in Alzheimer's care.

The connection between mental health and Alzheimer's disease is undeniable. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are frequently observed in individuals with Alzheimer's, and these conditions can exacerbate cognitive decline and behavioral symptoms. The availability of mental health resources within the 19139 ZIP code is therefore a crucial factor in the Alzheimer's Score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), and other mental health professionals. The integration of these resources within primary care practices, such as co-located mental health services or referral pathways, further enhances the score. Access to support groups, caregiver resources, and mental health education programs also contributes positively.

The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, is a composite metric. It would consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of geriatric specialists, the availability of cognitive screening, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. Each factor is weighted based on its relative importance in providing comprehensive Alzheimer's care. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio might negatively impact the score, while a practice with geriatric specialists and telemedicine capabilities would positively influence it. This weighted approach ensures a holistic assessment of the care landscape.

To illustrate, let's consider hypothetical examples. A practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio, a geriatrician on staff, and robust telemedicine capabilities would receive a higher score. Conversely, a practice with a high ratio, no geriatric expertise, and limited telemedicine adoption would receive a lower score. The score itself could be represented on a scale, such as a percentage or a letter grade (A-F), to provide a clear and easily understandable assessment.

The 19139 ZIP code's score, however, is not static. It is subject to change based on ongoing developments in healthcare. For instance, an influx of new PCPs, the adoption of telemedicine by more practices, or the establishment of new mental health resources could lead to an improved score. Conversely, the closure of a geriatric practice or a reduction in mental health services could negatively impact the score. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the assessment.

The challenges of Alzheimer's care are complex, but understanding the specific needs of communities like 19139 in Philadelphia is the first step toward improving outcomes. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare infrastructure, identifying areas for improvement, and ultimately, better supporting individuals and families affected by this disease. The Alzheimer's Score serves as a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to assess the quality and accessibility of care.

To visualize the spatial distribution of primary care resources, identify areas with high concentrations of geriatric specialists, and map the availability of mental health services within Philadelphia and beyond, explore the power of **CartoChrome maps**. Their mapping capabilities offer a dynamic and interactive way to understand the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about care.