15541, Friedens, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15541, Friedens, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.89 percent of the residents in 15541 has some form of health insurance. 38.78 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.25 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 15541 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 653 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15541. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 643 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,006 health care providers accessible to residents in 15541, Friedens, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Friedens, PA (ZIP Code 15541)

Friedens, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Somerset County, presents a unique profile for assessing overall health. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care within the 15541 ZIP code, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for the community, highlighting strengths and areas needing improvement.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In Friedens, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, rural communities often face challenges in this area. The national average of PCPs per capita serves as a benchmark. If Friedens falls below this average, it signals potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, reliance on emergency room services for non-emergencies, and overall poorer health outcomes. The physical distance required to reach a PCP also plays a role, with longer travel times potentially deterring individuals from seeking preventative care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of available primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the 15541 ZIP code requires evaluating several key metrics. Patient reviews, accessible through online platforms and local surveys, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction. Are patients consistently reporting positive experiences with their physicians and staff? Are wait times reasonable? Does the practice offer a comprehensive range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialist referrals? Practices that excel in these areas contribute significantly to a higher overall health score. Conversely, practices with consistently negative feedback or limited service offerings would negatively impact the score.

Telemedicine adoption represents a crucial element in modern healthcare delivery, especially in geographically isolated areas like Friedens. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Examining the prevalence of telemedicine services within the 15541 ZIP code is essential. Do local practices offer virtual consultations? Are they equipped with the necessary technology to facilitate these interactions? The availability of telemedicine can act as a significant health score booster, mitigating some of the challenges associated with rural healthcare.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being, and their availability within Friedens is a critical factor. Assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is necessary. Are there readily accessible options for individuals seeking mental health support? The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and partnerships with local hospitals significantly enhance the community's health score. Conversely, a lack of mental health resources would be a significant detriment, potentially leading to untreated mental illnesses and contributing to other health problems.

Furthermore, an assessment of the broader healthcare ecosystem is required. This includes the proximity and capabilities of local hospitals and specialty care providers. Does Friedens have easy access to emergency services? Are there specialists available for common health concerns? The presence of a robust and well-equipped healthcare infrastructure directly impacts the community's health score. The absence of these resources, necessitating travel to distant facilities, would lower the score.

The integration of preventative care services is another key element. Does the available primary care emphasize preventative measures such as regular checkups, screenings, and vaccinations? Practices that actively promote preventative care contribute to a higher overall health score by proactively addressing health concerns before they escalate. The availability of health education programs and resources within the community also plays a role.

The overall health score for Friedens, PA (15541) is therefore a composite measure. It is derived from a careful evaluation of the factors outlined above, with each element contributing to the final assessment. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the strength of the broader healthcare infrastructure all contribute to the final score. This comprehensive approach allows for a nuanced understanding of the community's health landscape.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Friedens, PA (15541) is a dynamic measure that reflects the current state of healthcare access and quality within the community. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system is crucial for residents and policymakers. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the health of the community and identifying areas that require attention.

To further explore the health landscape of Friedens and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a deeper understanding of the community's healthcare infrastructure.