15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.61 percent of the residents in 15357 has some form of health insurance. 46.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.76 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 15357 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 182 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15357. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 473 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Rices Landing, PA (ZIP Code 15357)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Rices Landing, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15357) requires a multifaceted approach, examining not just the presence of doctors, but also the accessibility, quality, and breadth of healthcare services available. This analysis will delve into the physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing an 'Overall Health Score' assessment.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. In rural areas like Rices Landing, this ratio often presents a significant challenge. Data suggests that the national average physician-to-population ratio is around 2.6 physicians per 1,000 residents. However, in many rural communities, this number can be significantly lower, potentially falling below 1.5 per 1,000. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, limited choices for primary care providers, and increased travel distances for specialized care. Determining the precise ratio for 15357 necessitates data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the U.S. Census Bureau, and potentially local hospital systems. The lower the ratio, the more stressed the local healthcare system becomes.

The availability of primary care physicians is paramount. Primary care serves as the gateway to the healthcare system, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. In Rices Landing, the presence of family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners is vital. Assessing their availability involves identifying the number of practices within the ZIP code or in close proximity, evaluating their patient capacity, and understanding their acceptance of new patients. Practices that are accepting new patients and offering a wide range of services, including same-day appointments and extended hours, would be considered more accessible.

Identifying standout practices requires looking beyond just the number of physicians. Factors like patient satisfaction, as reflected in online reviews and surveys, are important. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the Joint Commission, also indicates a commitment to quality. Furthermore, practices that offer comprehensive services, including on-site lab work, imaging, and specialized clinics, contribute to a higher overall health score. These practices streamline care and reduce the need for patients to travel to multiple locations.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. The availability of telehealth consultations, remote monitoring programs, and online patient portals contributes positively to the overall health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The integration of telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments and consultations, can significantly improve healthcare access for residents of 15357.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within or near Rices Landing is crucial. Assessing the accessibility of these resources involves evaluating the number of providers, their specialties, their acceptance of new patients, and the availability of services like individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management. The presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health awareness programs also contributes to a higher overall health score. Addressing mental health concerns is essential for the well-being of the community.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Rices Landing, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15357) is a composite measure based on the factors discussed above. A higher score would indicate greater accessibility, quality, and breadth of healthcare services. A lower score would indicate challenges in these areas. The precise score would depend on the specific data available and the weighting assigned to each factor. However, based on the general characteristics of rural areas, it is likely that the overall health score for 15357 would be moderate, with potential challenges in physician-to-patient ratios, access to specialists, and the availability of mental health resources.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies could be implemented. These include efforts to attract and retain physicians, expand telemedicine services, increase access to mental health resources, and promote preventative care initiatives. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to address the healthcare needs of the residents of Rices Landing.

The assessment of the health landscape in 15357 is a dynamic process. The availability of healthcare services can change over time, influenced by factors such as physician recruitment, changes in insurance coverage, and the evolving needs of the community. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the healthcare system is meeting the needs of the residents. A comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem is crucial for residents, policymakers, and healthcare providers alike.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rices Landing and surrounding areas, explore interactive maps and data visualizations. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care, visualize physician density, and explore other relevant metrics. They can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs and advocate for improvements in your community.