15691, Wendel, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15691, Wendel, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.82 percent of the residents in 15691 has some form of health insurance. 5.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 96.82 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 15691 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 209 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15691. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 27 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,969 health care providers accessible to residents in 15691, Wendel, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15691 and Primary Care Availability in Wendel

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for medical resources within ZIP code 15691, with a specific focus on primary care availability in the Wendel area. The evaluation considers various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This holistic approach aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographical region.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Within ZIP code 15691, and particularly in the Wendel area, the exact physician-to-patient ratio can fluctuate. Publicly available data, such as information from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide insights into this ratio. The proximity of larger medical centers or hospitals, even outside of the immediate ZIP code, can also influence the perceived accessibility. If the ratio is higher than the national average, it could indicate a potential shortage of primary care physicians, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially impacting the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices within 15691 is crucial for understanding the quality of care available. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches to medicine, and a commitment to community health. Evaluating these practices involves considering factors such as patient reviews, accreditations, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction, a focus on preventative care, and a commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements would contribute positively to the overall health score. Conversely, practices with consistently negative reviews or limited service offerings would negatively impact the score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor in assessing healthcare accessibility and quality. Telemedicine allows patients to access medical care remotely, which can be particularly beneficial in rural areas like Wendel. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can offer greater convenience, reduce travel time, and improve access to specialists. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly enhance the patient experience and contribute to a higher health score. Practices lagging behind in telemedicine adoption might be perceived as less accessible and less patient-centric.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is essential for the well-being of the community. Assessing mental health resources involves examining the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of those services. Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care offerings or have strong referral networks to mental health specialists would positively impact the health score. Limited access to mental health services, on the other hand, would negatively affect the score.

Wendel, being a smaller community within ZIP code 15691, may face unique challenges in accessing healthcare. The availability of primary care physicians in Wendel itself is a critical factor. If residents have to travel significant distances to see a primary care physician, it can negatively impact their access to care and their overall health. The presence of community health centers or mobile medical units can help to mitigate these challenges and improve the health score.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 15691 and primary care availability in Wendel is a composite measure. It is derived from a thorough evaluation of the factors discussed above. A higher score indicates better access to care, higher quality of care, and a more comprehensive healthcare system. A lower score suggests potential challenges in accessing care and areas for improvement. The score is not a static number but rather a reflection of the current healthcare landscape, which can change over time.

To improve the health score, several strategies can be employed. Increasing the number of primary care physicians in the area, particularly in Wendel, is a priority. Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine by all practices can improve accessibility and convenience. Strengthening mental health services through increased provider availability and improved integration with primary care is also essential. Supporting community health initiatives and promoting preventative care can further enhance the overall health of the community.

The analysis of the overall health score is an ongoing process. Regular monitoring of key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health resource availability, is crucial for tracking progress and identifying areas that require attention. This continuous evaluation allows for informed decision-making and the implementation of effective strategies to improve healthcare access and quality.

Understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources is vital for effective planning and resource allocation. Visualizing this data can provide valuable insights into healthcare disparities and identify areas that are underserved. Mapping the location of physicians, hospitals, mental health facilities, and other healthcare resources can help to identify gaps in access and inform strategies for improvement.

For a more detailed and visually rich understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 15691 and the Wendel area, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive visualization of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing for a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available and the challenges faced by the community.