15547, Jennerstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15547, Jennerstown, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.79 percent of the residents in 15547 has some form of health insurance. 39.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.74 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 15547 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 144 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15547. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 183 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 759 health care providers accessible to residents in 15547, Jennerstown, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Jennerstown, PA (ZIP Code 15547)

Jennerstown, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Laurel Highlands, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and delivery. Assessing the overall health score for this community requires a nuanced examination of available resources, physician density, and the adoption of modern healthcare practices. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 15547 ZIP code, examining factors that contribute to the overall health and well-being of its residents.

The most immediate concern for Jennerstown residents is the availability of primary care physicians. Rural communities often face challenges in attracting and retaining healthcare professionals. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator of access. While precise figures fluctuate and are often difficult to obtain with pinpoint accuracy for a specific ZIP code, anecdotal evidence and broader regional data suggest that the ratio in Jennerstown likely falls below the national average. This means there are fewer PCPs available to serve a potentially aging population, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hindering preventative care.

The geographic isolation of Jennerstown also plays a role. Travel distances to specialists and hospitals in larger towns like Johnstown or Somerset can be a significant barrier, especially for those with limited mobility or transportation options. This underscores the importance of robust primary care services within the community. The presence of a well-staffed and accessible PCP is the first line of defense against chronic diseases and acute illnesses.

Standout practices within the area, while difficult to identify definitively without direct access to patient records and practice data, likely exist. These practices might distinguish themselves through several factors. Patient reviews, online presence, and community reputation are all indicators. One potential standout might be a practice with a long-standing history in the community, building trust and familiarity with local residents. Another could be a practice that has successfully integrated technology to improve patient care, such as a patient portal for appointment scheduling, medication refills, and communication.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the health score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Its potential benefits include reducing travel time, improving access to specialists, and facilitating follow-up appointments. The level of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in Jennerstown is an important consideration. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to have a higher health score, as they are better positioned to serve their patients effectively, especially those with mobility issues or who live a distance from the practice.

Mental health resources are another critical component of the overall health score. Mental health is often overlooked, particularly in rural communities. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is essential. The presence of these resources within the community, or easily accessible nearby, is vital. The ability to receive timely mental health support can significantly impact a person’s overall well-being and ability to manage chronic conditions. A community with limited mental health resources will likely have a lower health score.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a positive indicator. This model allows for a more holistic approach to patient care, addressing both physical and mental health needs in a coordinated manner. Practices that offer integrated mental health services are likely to be more effective in managing the overall health of their patients.

The quality of care also depends on the availability of ancillary services, such as laboratory testing, imaging services, and physical therapy. The presence of these services within the community reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for essential diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. A community with a comprehensive range of ancillary services will likely have a higher health score.

Another critical aspect of the health score is the focus on preventative care. Practices that emphasize preventative screenings, vaccinations, and patient education are more likely to contribute to the long-term health and well-being of their patients. The availability of these preventative services is a key indicator of the overall health score.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Jennerstown, PA (15547) requires a comprehensive evaluation of several interconnected factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of standout practices, and the focus on preventative care all play a crucial role. While challenges related to rural healthcare access are evident, opportunities exist to improve the health score through strategic investments in technology, recruitment of healthcare professionals, and a focus on integrated care models.

To gain a more visual and data-driven understanding of healthcare access and resources in Jennerstown and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of location intelligence. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic platform for visualizing healthcare data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and demographic information. By using CartoChrome maps, you can gain valuable insights into healthcare disparities and identify areas where resources are most needed.