15697, Youngwood, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15697, Youngwood, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.92 percent of the residents in 15697 has some form of health insurance. 32.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.05 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 15697 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 636 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15697. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 513 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,020 health care providers accessible to residents in 15697, Youngwood, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Youngwood, PA (ZIP Code 15697)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the availability and quality of healthcare services within Youngwood, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15697). We will evaluate factors including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the accessibility of primary care physicians. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Data indicates a potential challenge in Youngwood. The population density, combined with the number of actively practicing primary care physicians within the immediate ZIP code, suggests a ratio that might be less than ideal. This means that each physician potentially serves a larger patient base, which could lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained resources. Further investigation is needed to determine the exact ratio and compare it to national and regional benchmarks.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of available primary care is paramount. While a comprehensive list of "standout practices" requires detailed patient reviews and objective performance metrics, some general observations can be made. The presence of practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, such as those connected to hospitals in neighboring communities, often indicates access to a broader network of specialists and advanced medical technologies. Such affiliations can also facilitate seamless referrals and care coordination, contributing to a more holistic approach to patient well-being. The availability of extended hours, weekend appointments, and walk-in services are also crucial indicators of a practice's commitment to patient convenience and access.

Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Its adoption in Youngwood is a critical factor. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in remote areas. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and online prescription refills are all indicators of telemedicine adoption. Assessing the number of practices offering telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the patient satisfaction with these services is vital to understanding the overall health score.

Mental health is an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health resources in Youngwood is a significant factor in the assessment. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and counselors. Access to these professionals is crucial for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health conditions. Furthermore, the availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health education programs within the community contributes to a more supportive and accessible mental healthcare environment. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, offering a more comprehensive approach to patient care, is also a positive indicator.

The presence of specialized healthcare services, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, within or near Youngwood, further contributes to the overall health score. The availability of these specialists reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care, improving convenience and potentially leading to better health outcomes. The presence of diagnostic imaging services, such as X-ray, MRI, and CT scans, is also crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

The overall health score is not just about the availability of medical professionals; it also encompasses the quality of care provided. This includes factors such as patient satisfaction, the use of evidence-based practices, and the commitment to continuous improvement. The presence of accreditation from reputable organizations, such as the Joint Commission, is an indicator of a practice's commitment to quality and safety.

Another critical element is health education and preventative care. The availability of programs and resources that promote healthy lifestyles, such as smoking cessation programs, weight management programs, and diabetes education, significantly impacts the overall health of the community. The emphasis on preventative care, including regular checkups, screenings, and vaccinations, can help to identify and address health problems early on, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

The financial aspect of healthcare also plays a role. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is crucial for ensuring access to care for all residents, regardless of their financial situation. The availability of financial assistance programs and the transparency of pricing are also important factors to consider.

Finally, the integration of technology in healthcare is transforming the delivery of care. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) allows for better coordination of care, improved communication between providers, and enhanced patient engagement. The availability of patient portals, which allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their providers, and schedule appointments online, is a positive indicator of a practice's commitment to patient-centered care.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score for Youngwood (15697) requires a multi-faceted approach. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the presence of specialized services, and the emphasis on preventative care all contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community. While data suggests potential challenges in certain areas, a comprehensive assessment requires a deeper dive into specific metrics and patient experiences.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Youngwood and surrounding areas, explore the power of geographic data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points.