19468, Royersford, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 19468, Royersford, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.28 percent of the residents in 19468 has some form of health insurance. 25.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.09 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 19468 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,056 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 16 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19468. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,692 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,152 health care providers accessible to residents in 19468, Royersford, Pennsylvania.

**Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Primary Care in Royersford, PA (ZIP Code 19468)**

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care within Royersford, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19468) is crucial for understanding the resources available to individuals, particularly those at risk for or living with Alzheimer's disease. This analysis will consider several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The aim is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, reflecting the overall preparedness of the local healthcare infrastructure to support the needs of this vulnerable population.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per physician, generally suggests better access and potentially more individualized attention. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and local healthcare providers reveal the physician-to-patient ratio in Royersford to be around 1:1200. This is a relatively positive indicator, suggesting a moderate level of access to primary care physicians. However, this figure doesn't fully capture the complexities of access, as it doesn't account for specialist availability, insurance acceptance, or the specific needs of the elderly population, who may require more frequent visits and specialized care.

Several primary care practices in Royersford stand out for their commitment to patient care, including those with longevity in the community. These practices often have established relationships with local hospitals and specialists, facilitating smoother referrals and coordinated care. Some practices have implemented patient-centered medical homes (PCMH) models, which emphasize a team-based approach to care, including nurses, care coordinators, and behavioral health specialists. These models are particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic conditions like Alzheimer's, as they provide comprehensive support and proactive management.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing the Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in rural areas. It enables remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The level of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Royersford varies. Some practices have embraced telehealth platforms, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities. Others are still in the early stages of adoption. Increased telemedicine adoption could significantly improve access to care for individuals with Alzheimer's, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments.

The availability of mental health resources is directly relevant to the Alzheimer's Score. Alzheimer's disease is often accompanied by behavioral and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and agitation. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is therefore essential. The analysis reveals a moderate level of mental health resource availability in Royersford. Several mental health clinics and individual practitioners serve the area. However, the demand for mental health services can be high, and wait times for appointments may be a barrier to access. Integrating mental health services into primary care practices, through co-location or referral networks, can improve care coordination and access for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Caregiver support is an often overlooked, but critical, aspect of Alzheimer's care. The burden on caregivers can be immense, leading to stress, burnout, and their own health problems. The availability of caregiver support groups, respite care services, and educational programs can significantly improve the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Local organizations and senior centers in Royersford offer some caregiver support services, but the availability may not fully meet the demand. Expanding these services and promoting awareness of their availability is crucial.

The Alzheimer's Score for primary care in Royersford, PA (19468) is moderately positive. The physician-to-patient ratio is reasonable, and some practices demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. However, improvements are needed in telemedicine adoption, mental health resource availability, and caregiver support. The score could be elevated by increasing telemedicine adoption, integrating mental health services within primary care, and expanding caregiver support programs.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Royersford and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, mental health providers, and support services, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify the providers nearest to you and assess their proximity to your home or loved ones.