15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15847 has some form of health insurance. 66.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.67 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 15847 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15847. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 11 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,253 health care providers accessible to residents in 15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania.

The overall health landscape in and around Knox Dale, Pennsylvania, specifically within ZIP Code 15847, presents a complex picture when assessing the availability and quality of primary care. Analyzing the health of a community requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the number of physicians but also the accessibility of care, the integration of technology, and the availability of crucial mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, focusing on key indicators and providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. While precise, up-to-the-minute data on physician-to-patient ratios requires real-time access to medical licensing boards and patient population figures, publicly available data and anecdotal evidence suggest that rural areas, such as those surrounding Knox Dale, often face challenges in this regard. Recruitment and retention of physicians in rural settings can be difficult due to factors like lower salaries, fewer opportunities for specialization, and a perceived lack of amenities. This likely translates into a less favorable physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban or suburban areas.

Evaluating standout practices within the 15847 ZIP code requires a deep dive into individual clinic performance, patient satisfaction surveys, and quality-of-care metrics. Without access to proprietary data, it's difficult to name specific "standout" practices. However, general indicators can provide insight. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and demonstrate a commitment to preventative medicine are likely to be highly regarded. Examining online reviews, if available, can provide some insight into patient experiences. Furthermore, practices affiliated with larger hospital systems may benefit from access to resources and specialists, potentially improving the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare accessibility, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive prescriptions, and access specialist consultations without having to travel long distances. The level of telemedicine adoption within the 15847 ZIP code is a key indicator of healthcare innovation and accessibility. Factors influencing adoption include the availability of reliable internet access, the willingness of physicians to embrace technology, and patient familiarity with virtual healthcare platforms. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their services are likely to offer a more convenient and accessible healthcare experience.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health. Mental health issues are prevalent, and access to timely and appropriate care is essential for well-being. Assessing mental health resources in the Knox Dale area requires examining the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. This includes the presence of mental health clinics, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices. Rural areas often face challenges in providing adequate mental health services due to a shortage of mental health professionals and limited access to specialized care. The extent to which mental health services are integrated into the broader healthcare system is a key indicator of the community's commitment to holistic health.

Primary care availability in Knox Dale is further impacted by factors beyond the number of physicians. These include the availability of specialized services, such as cardiology or endocrinology, and the presence of ancillary services like diagnostic imaging and laboratory testing. The proximity of hospitals and emergency rooms is also a critical factor in assessing the overall healthcare infrastructure. A community with a well-developed healthcare infrastructure, including a range of services and readily available emergency care, is likely to have better health outcomes.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ for the 15847 ZIP code, considering all these factors, would likely fall in the moderate range. While the precise score is impossible to determine without granular data, the challenges inherent in rural healthcare, such as potentially lower physician-to-patient ratios, the need for greater telemedicine adoption, and the potential scarcity of mental health resources, would likely weigh down the score. However, the presence of dedicated primary care practices, the potential for affiliation with larger healthcare systems, and the community's resilience in the face of challenges could contribute to a more positive assessment.

To improve the ‘Overall Health Score’ for the 15847 ZIP code, several strategies could be considered. These include initiatives to recruit and retain physicians, particularly primary care physicians and mental health professionals. Expanding telemedicine services, improving internet access, and promoting patient education about virtual healthcare options are also crucial. Strengthening partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers can facilitate integrated care. Community outreach programs to raise awareness about available healthcare resources and address health disparities are also important.

In conclusion, assessing the health landscape in and around Knox Dale requires a comprehensive understanding of various factors. While the 15847 ZIP code may face challenges related to physician availability and access to specialized care, the community's commitment to healthcare and the potential for innovation can contribute to improved health outcomes.

For a more detailed and visually informative analysis of the healthcare landscape in Knox Dale and surrounding areas, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. Their interactive maps can provide a clear and comprehensive overview of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, empowering you to make informed decisions and advocate for improved healthcare access.