15689, United, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15689, United, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15689 has some form of health insurance. 55.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.86 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 15689 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15689. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,525 health care providers accessible to residents in 15689, United, Pennsylvania.

The health landscape within ZIP code 15689, nestled in the borough of Youngwood, Pennsylvania, and the broader context of United, a census-designated place (CDP) within the same county, presents a complex picture. Assessing the overall health score requires a nuanced approach, moving beyond simple metrics to encompass access, quality of care, and available resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, evaluating key aspects of healthcare delivery in this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-patient ratios form a foundational element of any health score assessment. While precise, publicly available data for 15689 alone is often limited, we can leverage county-level figures and extrapolate. Westmoreland County, where both Youngwood and United are located, faces challenges common to many rural areas. The physician-to-patient ratio likely leans towards a shortage, particularly for primary care physicians. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying preventative care and exacerbating existing health conditions. This is a critical factor in evaluating the overall health score, as accessibility directly impacts health outcomes.

Primary care availability, a crucial component of accessible healthcare, is another area of scrutiny. The presence of primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants is vital for managing chronic diseases, providing preventative screenings, and coordinating care. Assessing the availability involves considering the number of providers, their acceptance of new patients, and the types of insurance they accept. Limited options, especially for those with specific insurance plans or those requiring specialized care, can negatively impact the health score. The geographical distribution of primary care practices within 15689 and United is also important. Are practices clustered in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This spatial analysis is essential for understanding true access.

Identifying standout practices is an important part of the evaluation. Practices demonstrating excellence in patient care, innovative approaches, or a commitment to community health can significantly improve the overall health score. This might involve looking at patient satisfaction surveys, quality metrics (such as those related to diabetes management or heart health), and the adoption of best practices. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs or provide educational resources also contribute positively to the health score. The presence of practices that offer extended hours or weekend appointments can also improve accessibility.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend, and its impact on the health score is significant. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The extent of telemedicine adoption among practices in 15689 and United needs to be assessed. Are practices offering virtual appointments? Do they have online patient portals for secure communication and access to medical records? The availability of telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations with specialists, can positively influence the health score.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being, and their availability significantly impacts the health score. The assessment must include the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors in the area. Are there mental health clinics or support groups? Are these resources readily accessible and affordable? The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, allowing for easier referrals and coordinated care, is particularly beneficial. The availability of crisis intervention services and resources for substance abuse treatment also significantly impacts the health score.

Beyond these core components, other factors influence the overall health score. These include the demographics of the population (age, socioeconomic status, and health disparities), the prevalence of chronic diseases (such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer), and the availability of community resources (such as fitness centers, healthy food options, and social support networks). The overall health score is a holistic measure, reflecting the combined impact of all these factors.

The health score of 15689 and United, as assessed, likely faces challenges typical of rural areas. Physician shortages, limited primary care availability, and the need for expanded mental health resources are likely key areas for improvement. While some practices may be demonstrating excellence, the overall health score could be improved by increasing access to care, promoting telemedicine adoption, and strengthening mental health services. The county's ongoing efforts to address healthcare disparities and improve access to care will be crucial for positively impacting the health score.

To gain a more granular understanding of the health landscape in 15689 and United, including the spatial distribution of healthcare providers, the demographics of the population, and the availability of community resources, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the health landscape and identifying areas for improvement. Access to this type of data visualization is an invaluable tool for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community members.