15684, Slickville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15684, Slickville, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.90 percent of the residents in 15684 has some form of health insurance. 53.26 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.20 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 15684 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 54 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15684. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 115 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,955 health care providers accessible to residents in 15684, Slickville, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Slickville, PA (ZIP Code 15684)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Slickville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15684) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering various factors influencing the well-being of its residents. This analysis will provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources.

Slickville, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. The 'Overall Health Score' will reflect these realities, aiming to paint an accurate picture of the existing healthcare infrastructure and its impact on the community's health.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

A critical indicator of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. In a rural setting like Slickville, this ratio is likely less favorable than in urban areas. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the cornerstone of preventative care and chronic disease management. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to delayed appointments, increased wait times, and potential gaps in care. Residents might need to travel to neighboring towns or cities, adding to the burden of accessing healthcare, especially for those with limited transportation options or mobility challenges. This scarcity significantly impacts the 'Overall Health Score', potentially lowering it due to restricted access.

The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics (RHCs) could mitigate this issue. These facilities often provide comprehensive services, including primary care, and may offer sliding-scale fees, making them more accessible to low-income residents. The existence and utilization of such resources will influence the 'Overall Health Score'.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Quality:**

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is crucial. Are there any medical facilities known for their patient satisfaction, specialized services, or commitment to community health? These practices can positively impact the 'Overall Health Score'. Factors to consider include the quality of care provided, the range of services offered (e.g., cardiology, endocrinology, etc.), and the practice's adherence to evidence-based medicine.

Furthermore, the presence of any hospitals or urgent care facilities within a reasonable driving distance is vital. These facilities provide immediate medical attention for acute illnesses and injuries, which is critical for maintaining a high 'Overall Health Score'. The quality of these facilities, as measured by patient outcomes, staffing levels, and technology adoption, will be important.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve the 'Overall Health Score'. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience.

The extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), will be assessed. Factors like the availability of reliable internet access in the community will also be considered, as it is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation. The integration of telemedicine can significantly boost the 'Overall Health Score' by improving access to care.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being. The availability and accessibility of mental health services in Slickville are essential for the 'Overall Health Score'. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors.

Assessing the availability of mental health services involves determining the number of providers, their specialties, and the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management). The presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health awareness programs will also be considered. The level of integration between primary care and mental health services is also important. A lack of mental health resources will negatively impact the 'Overall Health Score'.

**Overall Health Score Synthesis:**

Based on the factors discussed, an 'Overall Health Score' for Slickville (ZIP Code 15684) would be determined. This score is not a single number but a composite assessment reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

A lower score would indicate limited access to primary care, a low physician-to-patient ratio, a lack of specialized services, limited telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health resources. This scenario would necessitate improvements in healthcare infrastructure and service delivery.

A higher score would indicate good access to primary care, a reasonable physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized services, the widespread adoption of telemedicine, and robust mental health support. This would indicate a healthier community with better access to care.

**Conclusion:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for Slickville (ZIP Code 15684) is contingent on multiple variables. Addressing the challenges of rural healthcare access requires a comprehensive approach, including increasing the number of healthcare providers, expanding telemedicine services, and improving mental health support.

Understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This analysis offers a starting point for assessing the health needs of the community and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Slickville and the surrounding areas, including the locations of medical facilities, physician distribution, and demographic data, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize and analyze healthcare data, enabling you to make informed decisions and advocate for better healthcare access.