15076, Russellton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15076, Russellton, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.58 percent of the residents in 15076 has some form of health insurance. 56.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.88 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 15076 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 114 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 246 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15076. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 214 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,512 health care providers accessible to residents in 15076, Russellton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Russellton, PA (ZIP Code 15076)

Russellton, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 15076 ZIP code, presents a unique microcosm for evaluating healthcare accessibility and quality. An "Overall Health Score" for this area requires a multifaceted analysis, going beyond simple metrics to understand the lived experience of residents seeking primary care. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the health landscape in Russellton.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Accessibility**

The foundation of a strong health score lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This metric reveals how many residents are competing for access to a limited number of doctors. A high ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide insights into the number of practicing PCPs within the 15076 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This data, combined with population estimates, allows for the calculation of the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, ideally below the national average, indicates better accessibility.

Beyond the raw numbers, it's essential to consider the distribution of PCPs. Are they concentrated in specific areas, leaving other parts of Russellton underserved? Are there any "healthcare deserts" where residents face significant travel distances to reach a doctor? Analyzing geographic data, including the location of clinics and hospitals, is critical to understanding accessibility challenges. This data can inform targeted interventions to improve access in underserved areas.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating various factors. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including wait times, bedside manner, and overall satisfaction. Accreditation by organizations such as the Joint Commission or the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) signifies a commitment to quality standards and best practices. Practices that embrace innovative approaches, such as patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs), often demonstrate a higher level of care coordination and patient engagement.

Furthermore, examining the range of services offered by local practices is crucial. Do they provide comprehensive care, including preventive screenings, chronic disease management, and specialist referrals? The availability of ancillary services, such as on-site labs and pharmacies, can significantly enhance convenience and patient experience. Identifying practices that excel in these areas contributes positively to the overall health score.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has rapidly gained prominence, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Assessing telemedicine adoption in Russellton is vital. Are local practices offering virtual appointments for routine check-ups, follow-up visits, and consultations? Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, particularly for residents with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in remote areas.

The availability of telehealth services also depends on technological infrastructure. Reliable internet access is essential for virtual appointments. Understanding the digital literacy levels of the population is also important. Practices that offer user-friendly platforms and provide technical support can enhance the adoption of telemedicine. The integration of telemedicine with existing care models, such as the ability to share patient data securely, is a key factor in its success.

**Mental Health Resource Availability**

Mental health is an integral component of overall health. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources in Russellton is crucial. This includes assessing the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area. Are there sufficient mental health professionals to meet the needs of the community?

Beyond the number of providers, it's important to consider the types of services offered. Do local practices provide individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management? Are there specialized programs for specific populations, such as children, adolescents, or veterans? The availability of crisis intervention services, such as hotlines and mobile crisis teams, is also essential. Addressing the stigma surrounding mental health is also a factor. Public awareness campaigns and community initiatives can help to promote mental well-being.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion**

The "Overall Health Score" for Russellton (15076) is complex, influenced by the interplay of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall health of the community. A comprehensive analysis requires a data-driven approach, combining quantitative metrics with qualitative assessments.

Improving the health score requires a multi-pronged strategy. This could include attracting more PCPs to the area, supporting practices in adopting telemedicine, increasing access to mental health services, and fostering community partnerships to address health disparities. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and make adjustments as needed.

**Call to Action**

Want to visualize the health landscape of Russellton and explore the distribution of healthcare resources? Use CartoChrome maps to gain a spatial understanding of physician locations, accessibility challenges, and areas with limited access to care. CartoChrome maps provides powerful tools for analyzing geographic data and making informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.