19525, Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 19525, Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.42 percent of the residents in 19525 has some form of health insurance. 21.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.81 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 19525 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,027 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19525. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,237 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,735 health care providers accessible to residents in 19525, Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge for communities across the United States, and access to quality healthcare, particularly primary care, is crucial in managing the disease. This analysis examines the availability of primary care physicians and related resources in Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19525), with a focus on factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. We will assess the landscape of medical professionals, telemedicine integration, and mental health support systems, ultimately providing an 'Alzheimer's Score' analysis.

The foundation of effective Alzheimer's care rests upon accessible primary care. In Gilbertsville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, understanding the number of primary care physicians available per capita is essential. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per resident, generally translates to easier access to appointments, more personalized care, and a greater likelihood of early diagnosis and intervention. Researching the current ratio for 19525 requires consulting publicly available databases like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or local healthcare directories. These resources provide valuable data on physician distribution.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and specialization of primary care physicians are important. Are there physicians with specific training or experience in geriatric care or cognitive disorders? Some practices might have a dedicated geriatrician or a physician with a strong interest in neurology. Identifying these specialists is key. Furthermore, evaluating the patient reviews and ratings of local practices can offer insights into the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the overall approach to patient management.

Standout practices in Gilbertsville will likely demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. This includes not only addressing physical health concerns but also acknowledging the importance of mental and emotional well-being, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Practices that offer on-site counseling, social work services, or partnerships with local support groups would receive a higher score. These integrated services create a more holistic approach to care.

Telemedicine has revolutionized healthcare access, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Gilbertsville is a significant factor. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, which is particularly beneficial for those with mobility issues or those who find it difficult to travel. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals would be considered more accessible and innovative. This accessibility is especially valuable for Alzheimer's patients who might struggle with transportation or require frequent check-ins.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The disease often brings with it anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges for both the patient and their caregivers. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, in the Gilbertsville area is crucial. The proximity to mental health clinics, support groups, and counseling services directly impacts the quality of care. Practices that actively refer patients to mental health services and collaborate with mental health professionals demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care.

Another crucial aspect is the coordination of care. Do primary care physicians in Gilbertsville actively collaborate with specialists, such as neurologists or geriatricians? Do they have established referral pathways and communication systems to ensure seamless care transitions? Practices that prioritize care coordination and communication would be considered more patient-centered and effective in managing complex conditions like Alzheimer's.

Evaluating the availability of diagnostic services is also essential. Are there facilities in Gilbertsville or nearby that offer cognitive assessments, brain imaging (such as MRIs), and other diagnostic tools necessary for diagnosing and monitoring Alzheimer's disease? The proximity and accessibility of these services directly impact the speed and accuracy of diagnosis.

The 'Alzheimer's Score' for Gilbertsville would be a composite measure reflecting the factors discussed above. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized geriatric care, telemedicine adoption, the availability of mental health resources, the coordination of care, and the accessibility of diagnostic services. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for Alzheimer's care, with greater access to quality healthcare and support services.

The impact of Alzheimer's on caregivers is also important. Practices that offer support services for caregivers, such as educational programs, support groups, or respite care resources, would receive higher marks. Caregiver support is essential for the well-being of both the patient and the caregiver.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a community that supports individuals with Alzheimer's and their families. This requires a collaborative effort involving primary care physicians, specialists, mental health professionals, community organizations, and caregivers. The 'Alzheimer's Score' analysis helps to identify strengths and weaknesses in the current healthcare landscape and highlights areas where improvements are needed.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape in Gilbertsville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and resource distribution, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive, data-driven maps that can help you understand the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify areas with unmet needs.