15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.53 percent of the residents in 15943 has some form of health insurance. 46.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.66 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 15943 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 937 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15943. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 837 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,313 health care providers accessible to residents in 15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Nanty Glo (15943)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15943), requires a multifaceted approach. This assessment considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This holistic perspective allows for a more nuanced understanding of the community's health and well-being.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. Determining the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code is the initial step. Publicly available data, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health's physician directory or resources like the American Medical Association (AMA), can provide this information. However, it’s crucial to recognize that physician availability doesn't always equate to accessibility. Factors like insurance acceptance, appointment wait times, and practice hours significantly influence a patient's ability to receive timely care.

Calculating the physician-to-patient ratio offers a crucial metric. This ratio, derived by dividing the population of Nanty Glo by the number of primary care physicians, provides insight into the potential burden on each physician. A higher ratio suggests a greater patient load per doctor, which could potentially lead to longer wait times, shorter appointment durations, and potentially reduced access to preventative care. Conversely, a lower ratio generally indicates better access. The ideal ratio varies, but benchmarks from organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) can offer comparative context.

Identifying standout medical practices within Nanty Glo is essential. This requires evaluating practices based on several criteria. Patient reviews, available through online platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and overall experience. Accreditation by organizations like the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) or the Joint Commission can indicate a commitment to quality and safety standards. Furthermore, practices that embrace innovative approaches, such as patient-centered medical homes or integrated care models, often demonstrate a greater focus on comprehensive patient care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, has the potential to significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Nanty Glo. Practices that offer telemedicine services can extend their reach beyond traditional office hours and geographic limitations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of patient portals for communication and information sharing.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is paramount. Identifying local mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups is crucial. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is a significant advantage. Co-locating mental health professionals with primary care physicians can facilitate early detection, improve access to care, and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.

The assessment must also consider the demographics of Nanty Glo. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within the community is essential. These factors can influence the specific healthcare needs of the population. For example, a higher proportion of elderly residents may necessitate a greater focus on geriatric care and chronic disease management. Similarly, a community with a high rate of poverty may require targeted interventions to address social determinants of health, such as access to healthy food and safe housing.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the presence of community health initiatives. Local programs focused on health education, disease prevention, and wellness promotion can significantly impact the overall health of the community. These initiatives may include free health screenings, vaccination campaigns, and educational workshops. Evaluating the effectiveness of these programs and their alignment with the community's specific needs is an important part of the assessment.

Evaluating the quality of care provided by hospitals and specialist physicians that residents of Nanty Glo may use is also necessary. This includes examining patient outcomes, infection rates, and the availability of specialized services. While the focus is on primary care availability, access to specialized care is also essential for comprehensive healthcare. Hospitals near Nanty Glo, such as those in Johnstown, should be evaluated.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Nanty Glo is a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that should be continuously updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the community has access to the healthcare resources it needs to thrive. This includes the need for continuous improvement in primary care, mental health resources, and telemedicine adoption.

For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice locations, and areas of high need, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of access and availability.