15737, Elmora, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15737, Elmora, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15737 has some form of health insurance. 41.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.62 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 15737 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 22 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15737. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 30 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 308 health care providers accessible to residents in 15737, Elmora, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Elmora, PA (ZIP Code 15737)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Elmora, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15737) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the utilization of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis aims to provide an “Overall Health Score” assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Ideally, a lower ratio indicates better access to care. However, obtaining precise, up-to-the-minute data for a specific ZIP code can be challenging. Information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with data from the US Census Bureau, provides a framework. The Census Bureau provides population data, while the Department of Health might offer physician licensing and practice location information. A preliminary analysis suggests a potential challenge in Elmora, with a possible higher-than-average patient-to-physician ratio compared to state or national benchmarks. This indicates potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care.

Identifying standout practices within the community is vital. These practices often serve as benchmarks for quality and patient satisfaction. Researching online reviews from platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc can reveal patient experiences. Analyzing these reviews, along with information from the local medical society, can highlight practices that consistently receive positive feedback for their patient care, communication, and overall service. Practices with a strong emphasis on preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education deserve recognition. Furthermore, those that actively participate in community health initiatives and outreach programs contribute significantly to the overall health of the population.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and its continued use can significantly improve access to care, particularly for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local primary care practices involves examining their websites, calling to inquire about telehealth options, and checking insurance coverage for virtual visits. Practices offering telehealth appointments for routine check-ups, medication refills, and follow-up consultations are contributing to a more accessible and convenient healthcare system. The availability of virtual mental health services is particularly important, as it can help address the shortage of mental health professionals in many rural areas.

The presence and accessibility of mental health resources are crucial components of a comprehensive health score. This includes the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Researching local mental health clinics, hospitals, and community organizations is essential. Examining the types of services offered, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management, is important. Also, assessing the availability of crisis intervention services, such as 24/7 hotlines and emergency mental health services, is vital. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, known as integrated behavioral health, is a positive indicator. This approach facilitates early detection and treatment of mental health conditions, improving patient outcomes.

Accessibility extends beyond the availability of physicians and services. It encompasses factors like insurance coverage, transportation options, and language accessibility. Analyzing the percentage of the population with health insurance, the availability of public transportation to medical facilities, and the presence of multilingual staff or translation services within practices are crucial. Addressing these barriers ensures that all residents have equal access to the healthcare they need.

The overall health score for Elmora (15737) is potentially negatively impacted by the possible higher physician-to-patient ratio. However, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources can mitigate some of these challenges. Further investigation into the specific practices, their services, and their accessibility is needed to provide a more definitive score. The degree of telemedicine integration and the availability of mental health support, especially within primary care, will be key factors in improving the overall health score.

The community's health is a dynamic entity, constantly evolving. Regular assessments and continuous improvement efforts are necessary to maintain and enhance the overall health score. This involves ongoing monitoring of physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of mental health services. Furthermore, community engagement and patient feedback are essential for identifying areas for improvement and tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the population.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elmora and the surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to explore the distribution of physicians, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities within the ZIP code and surrounding areas. This visual approach can help identify areas with limited access to care, understand the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, and make informed decisions about healthcare planning and resource allocation.