29591, Scranton, South Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 29591, Scranton, South Carolina is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.30 percent of the residents in 29591 has some form of health insurance. 41.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.57 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 29591 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,194 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29591. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 725 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,774 health care providers accessible to residents in 29591, Scranton, South Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: 29591 Physicians and Scranton Primary Care

This analysis assesses the landscape of Alzheimer's care readiness within the 29591 ZIP code (likely in South Carolina) and the primary care environment in Scranton, Pennsylvania, considering factors crucial for supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" analysis, indirectly, by assessing the preparedness of the healthcare infrastructure.

**29591: A Local Perspective**

The healthcare infrastructure within 29591, a region likely characterized by a specific demographic profile, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Assessing the availability of qualified physicians is paramount. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for neurologists, geriatricians, and primary care physicians with specialized training in dementia care, is a significant vulnerability. The analysis requires data on the number of physicians practicing within the ZIP code, broken down by specialty, and compared to the population size. This provides a preliminary indication of access to care.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive Alzheimer's care. This includes early diagnosis programs, memory clinics, and care coordination services. These practices often employ multidisciplinary teams, including neurologists, geriatricians, nurses, social workers, and therapists. Identifying such practices requires examining their websites, reviewing patient testimonials, and assessing their participation in community outreach programs. A practice’s willingness to collaborate with local support groups, such as the Alzheimer's Association, is also a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption offers a vital avenue for improving access to care, especially in rural or underserved areas. The analysis must evaluate the extent to which physicians in 29591 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those residing far from specialized care centers. The presence of telehealth platforms and the availability of remote monitoring devices are key factors in assessing telemedicine readiness.

Mental health resources are critical for supporting both patients and caregivers. Alzheimer's disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, requiring access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. The analysis needs to assess the availability of mental health providers within the ZIP code, the waiting times for appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. The presence of support groups, counseling services, and respite care options for caregivers is also crucial.

**Scranton's Primary Care Environment**

Scranton, Pennsylvania, a city with a distinct history and community, presents a different set of challenges and opportunities. The primary care environment is the first point of contact for many individuals experiencing cognitive decline. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their willingness to screen for cognitive impairment are crucial. A high PCP-to-patient ratio, particularly for the elderly population, is essential.

Primary care practices in Scranton should be evaluated for their commitment to early detection and diagnosis. This includes the use of standardized cognitive screening tools, such as the Mini-Cog or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Practices that proactively screen patients, particularly those over the age of 65, demonstrate a proactive approach to Alzheimer's care. The analysis should also consider the PCPs' training in dementia care and their knowledge of available resources.

Telemedicine adoption within Scranton's primary care practices is equally important. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations with specialists, provide access to educational resources, and support medication management. The analysis should assess the availability of telehealth platforms, the willingness of PCPs to use telemedicine, and the accessibility of these services for patients with limited technological literacy.

The availability of mental health resources in Scranton is vital. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health challenges. The analysis should assess the referral pathways from primary care practices to mental health specialists, the waiting times for appointments, and the availability of support groups and counseling services. The presence of specialized geriatric mental health services is particularly important.

**Alzheimer's Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a single number but a holistic assessment based on the factors discussed above. A high score reflects a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to support individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families. This includes a sufficient number of qualified physicians, a commitment to early detection and diagnosis, the utilization of telemedicine, and the availability of comprehensive mental health resources.

In both 29591 and Scranton, the analysis should consider the presence of resources for caregivers. This includes support groups, educational programs, and respite care options. Caregivers often bear a significant burden, and access to these resources is essential for their well-being and the quality of care provided to the patient.

The analysis should also consider the affordability of care. This includes the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of medications and other services. Access to affordable care is crucial for ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, can receive the care they need.

**Conclusion and Call to Action**

The healthcare landscape for Alzheimer's care is complex and multifaceted. Evaluating the availability of physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the support for caregivers provides a comprehensive view of the preparedness of a given area.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure in 29591 and Scranton. For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape, including physician locations, demographics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear, concise, and actionable view of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in providing Alzheimer's care. **Visit CartoChrome maps today to visualize and analyze the healthcare data in these areas and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Alzheimer's care landscape.**