15552, Meyersdale, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15552, Meyersdale, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.71 percent of the residents in 15552 has some form of health insurance. 39.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.67 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 15552 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,368 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15552. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,233 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 438 health care providers accessible to residents in 15552, Meyersdale, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Meyersdale, PA (ZIP Code 15552)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Meyersdale, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15552) requires a multifaceted approach. We must delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess the physician-to-patient ratio, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Meyersdale, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. The number of practicing physicians, their specialties, and their willingness to accept new patients directly impact the community's health. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a smaller number of patients per physician, generally indicates better access to care. Conversely, a high ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised health outcomes.

Specific data regarding the physician-to-patient ratio in Meyersdale requires localized research. However, based on general trends in rural communities, it is reasonable to anticipate a potential challenge. Rural areas often face shortages of healthcare professionals due to factors like geographic isolation, limited professional opportunities, and lower compensation compared to urban centers. This can result in a higher physician-to-patient ratio, placing increased strain on existing primary care providers.

Identifying standout practices within Meyersdale is crucial for understanding the quality of care available. These practices often serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in patient care, technology adoption, and community engagement. Assessing factors like patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the integration of preventative care programs can help identify these exemplary practices. Examining the practice's commitment to patient education and chronic disease management is also important.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key aspect of healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Meyersdale. Telemedicine, which utilizes technology to deliver healthcare services remotely, can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians without traveling long distances. It is especially valuable for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health consultations. The level of telemedicine adoption within Meyersdale's primary care practices can significantly impact the overall health score. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient convenience, potentially improving access to care for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health issues. Assessing the presence of these resources within Meyersdale requires evaluating the number of mental health providers, their specialties, and the types of services they offer. Furthermore, examining the availability of support groups, community mental health programs, and crisis intervention services is crucial. A community with robust mental health resources typically experiences better overall health outcomes.

The "Overall Health Score" for Meyersdale, PA (15552) must consider all of these factors. It would likely be a composite score, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the degree of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a greater emphasis on preventative medicine, and a more comprehensive approach to patient well-being. A lower score would suggest potential challenges in these areas, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve healthcare access and quality.

To improve the health score, several strategies could be considered. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians, especially those willing to practice in rural settings, is paramount. Incentives such as loan repayment programs, professional development opportunities, and community support initiatives can help attract and retain healthcare professionals. Expanding telemedicine services and promoting their use among patients can also significantly improve access to care.

Furthermore, fostering collaborations between primary care practices and mental health providers is essential. Integrating mental health services into primary care settings can reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and improve access to timely treatment. Supporting community mental health programs and crisis intervention services is equally important.

Finally, promoting health education and preventative care initiatives can empower individuals to take control of their health. This includes providing resources on healthy lifestyles, chronic disease management, and mental well-being.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Meyersdale, PA (15552) is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of various factors. While specific data is needed for a precise score, the analysis reveals potential challenges in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Addressing these challenges through targeted interventions and community collaborations is crucial for improving the health and well-being of the residents of Meyersdale.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Meyersdale and surrounding areas, explore the power of geospatial data visualization. Utilize the advanced mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps to visualize physician locations, healthcare resource distribution, and demographic data, providing a comprehensive view of the healthcare ecosystem. Discover the power of data-driven insights and make informed decisions about your health and community.