15722, Carrolltown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15722, Carrolltown, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.47 percent of the residents in 15722 has some form of health insurance. 37.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.68 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 15722 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 501 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15722. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 477 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 123 health care providers accessible to residents in 15722, Carrolltown, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Carrolltown, PA (ZIP Code 15722)

Carrolltown, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 15722 ZIP code, presents a unique healthcare landscape shaped by its rural character and the needs of its community. Assessing the overall health score for this area necessitates a detailed examination of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, acknowledging the challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic context.

The fundamental building block of a healthy community is readily accessible primary care. In Carrolltown, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial factor. Assessing this involves not just counting the number of doctors but also considering their specialties, hours of operation, and acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, which are often vital for the demographic in this area. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating more doctors per resident, generally translates to better access and shorter wait times for appointments. Conversely, a high ratio can signify potential difficulties in securing timely care.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio requires data from multiple sources. County health departments, state medical boards, and insurance providers can offer insights into the number of practicing PCPs within the 15722 ZIP code. Comparing this number to the population of Carrolltown allows for a basic ratio calculation. This ratio, however, is only a starting point. It must be contextualized by factors such as the age and health needs of the population. A community with a higher proportion of elderly residents, for example, will likely require more healthcare resources than a younger demographic.

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond the basic metrics. Practices that consistently receive high patient satisfaction ratings, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, and offer a broad range of services are indicators of quality. This includes practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments for urgent needs. Information about these practices can be gleaned from online reviews, patient testimonials, and data from healthcare rating websites. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community health initiatives, such as health screenings or educational programs, demonstrate a commitment to the overall well-being of the residents.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in evaluating the healthcare landscape of Carrolltown. Given the rural nature of the area, telemedicine can play a vital role in bridging geographical barriers and expanding access to care. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining the number of practices that offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the accessibility of these services to patients. Practices that offer telehealth options can improve access to specialists, provide convenient follow-up appointments, and reduce the need for travel, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. Carrolltown’s health score must consider the availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors. Assessing this involves determining the number of mental health professionals practicing within the ZIP code, the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and their acceptance of insurance plans. The presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services also contributes to a comprehensive mental health infrastructure. The availability of these resources is especially crucial in rural areas, where access to mental health services can be limited.

Further, the integration of mental health services with primary care is a key factor. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals work alongside primary care physicians, can improve coordination of care and make it easier for patients to access mental health support. This is particularly important in addressing the needs of individuals with chronic conditions or those who may be struggling with mental health issues alongside physical health concerns.

The health score for Carrolltown is influenced by the presence of hospitals and specialized care facilities. While Carrolltown itself may not have a major hospital, the proximity to hospitals in neighboring towns or cities is a factor. The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and other specialties, is also crucial. Residents should have access to these services within a reasonable distance. Assessing this aspect requires considering travel times and the availability of transportation options for those who may not have their own vehicles.

The overall health score is not static; it is influenced by ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and quality. Initiatives by local healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies can significantly impact the health of the community. Examples include programs that promote preventative care, address social determinants of health, and increase access to health insurance. The success of these initiatives can be measured by tracking key health indicators, such as rates of chronic diseases, mortality rates, and patient satisfaction scores.

In summary, the overall health score for Carrolltown (15722) is a complex metric. It is influenced by the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The assessment also considers the presence of hospitals, specialized care, and the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and quality. A thorough understanding of these factors is essential for developing strategies to improve the health and well-being of the residents of Carrolltown.

While this analysis provides a general overview, the complexity of healthcare data requires sophisticated mapping and visualization tools to fully understand the nuances of the health landscape.