15714, Northern Cambria, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15714, Northern Cambria, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.95 percent of the residents in 15714 has some form of health insurance. 52.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.08 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 15714 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,321 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15714. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 970 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,166 health care providers accessible to residents in 15714, Northern Cambria, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Northern Cambria (15714)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 15714, encompassing the town of Northern Cambria, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Ultimately, we aim to provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, reflecting the community's access to quality healthcare.

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

A cornerstone of any healthy community is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Northern Cambria, assessing this availability involves evaluating the number of active PCPs practicing within the 15714 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This is not a static metric; it fluctuates based on physician retirements, relocations, and new arrivals. Furthermore, the actual number of PCPs is only part of the picture. The physician-to-patient ratio, a crucial indicator, reveals the potential workload and accessibility for each physician. A higher ratio indicates a greater patient burden, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual patient attention. Data from reputable sources, like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the American Medical Association, is essential for calculating this ratio accurately. The ideal ratio varies, but anything significantly above the national average warrants concern and requires further investigation into the root causes, such as physician shortages or geographic limitations.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout medical practices within the community is crucial. This involves evaluating factors like patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the utilization of advanced medical technologies. Practices that prioritize preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education often demonstrate superior health outcomes. These practices might also have a strong reputation for patient communication, timely appointment scheduling, and a commitment to community outreach. Examining online reviews, soliciting feedback from local residents, and analyzing data from health insurance providers can help pinpoint these exemplary practices. Their presence can significantly influence the overall health score, as they often serve as models for best practices and can improve the health of a substantial segment of the population. The impact of these practices can be seen in reduced hospital readmission rates, better management of chronic conditions, and improved overall patient well-being.

**Telemedicine Adoption: A Modern Healthcare Solution:**

Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its adoption in Northern Cambria is a key factor in our assessment. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, making it easier for patients to access specialists, receive follow-up care, and manage chronic conditions. Assessing the level of telemedicine integration involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely (e.g., consultations, medication management), and the technological infrastructure supporting these services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve patient access, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance patient convenience. The success of telemedicine, however, depends on factors such as internet access, patient digital literacy, and the willingness of both physicians and patients to adopt this technology.

**Mental Health Resources: An Essential Component:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources are crucial in any community. Assessing this involves evaluating the number of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, counselors) practicing in the area, as well as the availability of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services. Furthermore, it's important to consider the integration of mental health services within primary care settings. This integrated approach can improve early detection and treatment of mental health conditions. The stigma surrounding mental health can often be a barrier to seeking help. Therefore, the presence of community programs that promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma is a positive indicator. The overall health score will be significantly impacted by the availability and accessibility of these resources.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Compiling the above factors allows us to formulate an 'Overall Health Score' for Northern Cambria (15714). This score is not a single, definitive number but rather a holistic assessment based on the interconnectedness of the factors discussed. A high score would indicate a community with readily available primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout medical practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and comprehensive mental health resources. A lower score would suggest areas of concern, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, underdeveloped telemedicine infrastructure, or a lack of mental health services. The score should be viewed as a starting point for further investigation and improvement. It can be used to identify areas where resources are needed and to track progress over time.

**Conclusion:**

Evaluating the health landscape of Northern Cambria (15714) reveals a complex picture. While the specific details of physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability require detailed data analysis, this framework provides a structure for assessing the overall health of the community. By understanding these factors, we can identify strengths and weaknesses, and develop strategies to improve healthcare access and outcomes for the residents of Northern Cambria.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Northern Cambria and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the power of geospatial data. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and insightful view of physician locations, healthcare facility distributions, and other relevant health data, allowing for a deeper understanding of accessibility and resource allocation. Explore CartoChrome maps today and gain a new perspective on the health of your community.