16214, Clarion, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16214, Clarion, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.62 percent of the residents in 16214 has some form of health insurance. 27.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.56 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 16214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,652 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16214. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,003 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 454 health care providers accessible to residents in 16214, Clarion, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Clarion, PA (ZIP Code 16214)

Analyzing the overall health score for residents of Clarion, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16214) requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the utilization of technology like telemedicine, the presence and accessibility of mental health resources, and ultimately, the physician-to-patient ratio within the community. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

One crucial metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This figure reveals the density of primary care physicians available to serve the population. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association (AMA) would be essential to ascertain the exact ratio within ZIP Code 16214. Comparing this ratio to state and national averages will provide a critical benchmark. If the ratio is significantly lower than average, it signals a potential area of concern.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by existing primary care practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication skills, and the overall experience. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can also be a marker of quality, indicating adherence to specific standards of care. Furthermore, examining the range of services offered, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and specialized care coordination, paints a more complete picture of each practice's capabilities.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor influencing the overall health score. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas like Clarion. It can reduce travel time, improve convenience, and facilitate more frequent communication between patients and physicians. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine within the local primary care practices requires investigating the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and electronic patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies are likely to score higher in terms of accessibility and patient convenience.

Mental health resources are an indispensable component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial for addressing the mental well-being of the community. Assessing the mental health landscape in Clarion requires identifying the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Furthermore, evaluating the presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and partnerships with local schools or community organizations provides a more complete understanding of the community's mental health infrastructure. A shortage of mental health resources, or limited access to them, would negatively impact the overall health score.

The geographical distribution of healthcare resources also plays a significant role. Analyzing the location of primary care practices, mental health providers, and other healthcare facilities within ZIP Code 16214 allows for the identification of potential healthcare deserts – areas with limited access to care. This spatial analysis is crucial for understanding disparities in healthcare access and for identifying areas where resources may need to be concentrated. Proximity to hospitals and specialized care centers is another factor to consider, as it impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and comprehensive care.

Another important consideration is the prevalence of chronic diseases within the community. Data on conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity can provide valuable insights into the health needs of the population. Examining the availability of specialized care for these conditions, including endocrinologists, cardiologists, and dietitians, is crucial. Moreover, the presence of preventative programs and educational resources aimed at managing and preventing chronic diseases contributes to the overall health score.

The affordability of healthcare is also a significant factor. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, is crucial for ensuring that residents can access the care they need. Examining the availability of financial assistance programs and resources for uninsured or underinsured individuals is also important. High healthcare costs can act as a barrier to care, leading to delayed treatment and poorer health outcomes.

Finally, the overall health score for Clarion (ZIP Code 16214) is a dynamic metric. It is influenced by a multitude of factors, and its value is subject to change over time. Regular monitoring of key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability, is essential for tracking progress and identifying areas that require improvement. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial for improving the overall health and well-being of the residents of Clarion.

For a detailed, visually informative map of healthcare resources in Clarion, including the location of doctors, specialists, and mental health providers, visit CartoChrome maps. Their interactive platform provides a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape, empowering you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your health.