16134, Jamestown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16134, Jamestown, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.17 percent of the residents in 16134 has some form of health insurance. 51.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.78 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 16134 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 787 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16134. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,079 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,458 health care providers accessible to residents in 16134, Jamestown, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Jamestown, PA (ZIP Code 16134)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 16134, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” for residents of Jamestown, PA, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of their healthcare system.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access to Care:**

One of the most fundamental indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reveals the number of residents supported by each primary care physician (PCP). A lower ratio generally signifies better access to care, allowing for more personalized attention and shorter wait times. However, obtaining precise, real-time data for a specific ZIP code can be challenging. Data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards provide valuable insights. These sources are used to calculate the number of active, practicing PCPs within the 16134 ZIP code. This number is then compared to the population of Jamestown, PA.

The resulting ratio is a critical component of the Overall Health Score. A high ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a low ratio would contribute positively. Factors such as the age and health needs of the population also play a role. An aging population or a community with a higher prevalence of chronic diseases may require a lower ratio to ensure adequate care. Furthermore, the presence of specialists and the efficiency of referral systems influence the overall accessibility.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout primary care practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication skills, and the overall patient experience. The quality of care is also assessed by examining the practice's accreditations, such as those from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). These accreditations indicate adherence to specific standards of care and commitment to quality improvement.

Furthermore, the practice's utilization of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, is considered. EHRs facilitate efficient information sharing and coordination of care, while patient portals empower individuals to manage their health information and communicate with their providers. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to these technologies are generally considered to be providing a higher level of care. The Overall Health Score incorporates these factors, recognizing practices that excel in patient satisfaction, quality metrics, and technological integration.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The Overall Health Score assesses the availability of telemedicine services offered by primary care practices in the 16134 ZIP code.

This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine services offered, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and prescription refills. The accessibility of these services, including the availability of appointments and the ease of use of the technology, is also considered. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and made it readily available to their patients receive a higher score. This reflects their commitment to expanding access to care and improving patient convenience.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The Overall Health Score gives significant weight to the availability of mental health resources within the Jamestown community. This includes assessing the presence of mental health providers, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. The number of providers per capita is a key indicator.

The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists receive a higher score. This integrated approach helps to address the often-intertwined physical and mental health needs of patients. The availability of support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services also contributes positively to the score. The Overall Health Score reflects the community's commitment to addressing the mental health needs of its residents.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

The Overall Health Score for the residents of ZIP code 16134 is a complex calculation that considers the factors discussed above. It is important to note that this analysis is a snapshot in time, and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Changes in physician availability, practice offerings, and community resources can all impact the score. The score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Jamestown, PA. It also offers insights into areas where improvements are needed to enhance the health and well-being of the community. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect the changing healthcare environment.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jamestown, PA, and to compare it with other areas, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps.