15551, Markleton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15551, Markleton, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.37 percent of the residents in 15551 has some form of health insurance. 43.85 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.77 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 15551 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 152 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15551. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 176 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 732 health care providers accessible to residents in 15551, Markleton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Markleton, PA (ZIP Code 15551)

Markleton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Laurel Highlands, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Assessing the overall health score for the area, considering both the availability of primary care physicians and the broader healthcare ecosystem, requires a nuanced approach. This analysis will delve into key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource accessibility, to paint a comprehensive picture.

The foundation of any health score analysis lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a critical snapshot of access to care. In ZIP code 15551, a rural area, the physician density is likely to be lower compared to urban centers. This means there are fewer doctors per capita. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to access care, and potentially, a decreased ability for residents to receive timely preventative care. The impact is amplified for those with chronic conditions requiring frequent check-ups.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of existing primary care practices play a significant role. Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they offer a range of services, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and immunizations? The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, within a reasonable distance is also a crucial consideration. The availability of these specialists, or the ease of referral to them, directly impacts the ability to manage complex health conditions effectively.

Telemedicine adoption, particularly in rural areas, offers a promising avenue to mitigate the challenges of limited physical access. The use of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health tools can bridge geographical barriers. Assessing the extent to which primary care practices in Markleton have embraced telemedicine is essential. Are they offering virtual appointments for routine follow-ups? Do they utilize remote patient monitoring for individuals with chronic conditions? The successful integration of telehealth can significantly improve access to care and patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, is a key indicator of a community's health score. Does Markleton have readily accessible mental health services? Are there local therapists or counselors? Are there partnerships with larger healthcare systems that offer mental health support? The lack of adequate mental health resources can negatively impact both individual health and the overall health of the community.

Another factor to consider is the presence of community health initiatives. Are there local programs focused on preventative care, health education, or chronic disease management? These initiatives can play a vital role in promoting health and well-being within the community. The existence of these programs, and their effectiveness, contributes to the overall health score.

The age demographics of the population in 15551 also influence the health score. A population with a higher proportion of elderly residents may require more specialized care and have a greater need for chronic disease management services. The availability of geriatric care, home health services, and assisted living facilities becomes increasingly important in this context.

Analyzing the quality of care is also crucial. This involves assessing patient satisfaction, the use of evidence-based practices, and the overall outcomes of care. While directly measuring these aspects can be challenging, examining data related to hospital readmission rates, preventative care utilization, and patient reviews can provide valuable insights.

The financial aspects of healthcare access also impact the health score. The affordability of care, including the availability of insurance coverage and the cost of services, is a significant factor. The percentage of residents with health insurance, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of prescription medications all contribute to the overall picture.

The presence of a hospital or medical center within a reasonable distance is another important consideration. The availability of emergency services, specialized care, and diagnostic testing facilities is critical for addressing acute medical needs. The proximity of these resources directly impacts the health and safety of the community.

Furthermore, the impact of social determinants of health cannot be ignored. Factors like income levels, educational attainment, housing quality, and access to healthy food can significantly influence health outcomes. These social determinants need to be considered to gain a full understanding of the health landscape.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Markleton, PA (ZIP code 15551) requires a multifaceted approach. While the physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational metric, a complete evaluation necessitates considering practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, community health initiatives, age demographics, quality of care, financial accessibility, the presence of a hospital, and the impact of social determinants of health. This detailed analysis provides a basis for identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement within the healthcare system.

For a visual and interactive exploration of healthcare resources and other relevant data points in Markleton and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps.