15479, Smithton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15479, Smithton, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.67 percent of the residents in 15479 has some form of health insurance. 32.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.17 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 15479 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 369 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15479. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 396 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 224 health care providers accessible to residents in 15479, Smithton, Pennsylvania.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15479 and Primary Care Availability in Smithton**

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 15479, encompassing the community of Smithton, Pennsylvania, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' and pinpoint areas of strength and potential areas for improvement within this specific geographical context.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational metric. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of available physicians, can lead to delayed appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a high ratio suggests ample access, potentially fostering preventative care and more personalized attention. Determining the exact ratio for Smithton requires accessing data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and potentially local hospital systems. This data would need to be analyzed to calculate the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists practicing within the ZIP code, compared to the estimated population. A ratio significantly below the national average (which fluctuates but is often cited around 1:1000) would raise a red flag, signaling a potential shortage.

Identifying standout medical practices within Smithton is crucial. This involves evaluating several factors, including the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction levels, the range of services offered, and the use of technology. Practices that consistently receive high ratings from patients, as evidenced by online reviews and patient surveys, deserve recognition. The presence of board-certified physicians, accreditation by recognized healthcare organizations (like the Joint Commission), and the availability of specialized services (e.g., cardiology, endocrinology, etc.) also contribute to a practice's overall standing. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals demonstrates a commitment to modern healthcare practices, enhancing communication and patient engagement.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of modern healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who face geographical barriers or have mobility limitations. Assessing telemedicine adoption in Smithton involves determining the number of practices offering virtual consultations, the types of services available via telemedicine (e.g., primary care, mental health counseling, specialist consultations), and the ease of access to these services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering convenient and accessible virtual care options, contribute positively to the overall health score.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical aspect of community well-being. Mental health is often underserved, and access to these services is vital. Evaluating the mental health landscape in Smithton requires assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and other mental health professionals. The availability of mental health clinics, counseling centers, and support groups is also significant. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care settings, a practice known as integrated behavioral health, is a positive indicator. A community with readily available, accessible, and affordable mental health resources will naturally have a higher overall health score.

Beyond these core metrics, other factors contribute to the overall health score. These include the presence of community health programs, access to affordable medications, the availability of health education resources, and the overall socioeconomic conditions of the community. The health of the environment, including air and water quality, also plays a role. A comprehensive assessment considers these elements to provide a holistic view.

The final 'Overall Health Score' for Smithton would be a composite of these various factors, weighted according to their relative importance. For example, the physician-to-patient ratio might carry a significant weight, reflecting its fundamental impact on access to care. The presence of high-quality medical practices and the adoption of telemedicine would also be weighted heavily. The availability of mental health resources would also be a significant factor. This score would be a numerical representation, allowing for comparison with other communities and tracking of progress over time.

Improvements in Smithton's health score might involve strategies such as recruiting more physicians, particularly PCPs, and incentivizing them to practice in the area. Promoting telemedicine adoption among existing practices and expanding the availability of mental health services are also crucial. Supporting community health programs and improving access to affordable healthcare are essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is vital to create a healthier environment for the residents of Smithton.

In conclusion, the health landscape in Smithton, ZIP code 15479, appears to be a dynamic system. A comprehensive analysis, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, is essential to determine the community's 'Overall Health Score'. This score can then be used to identify areas of strength and areas needing improvement, informing targeted interventions and ultimately contributing to a healthier community.

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