16228, Ford Cliff, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16228, Ford Cliff, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.44 percent of the residents in 16228 has some form of health insurance. 44.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.21 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 16228 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 61 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16228. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 63 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 617 health care providers accessible to residents in 16228, Ford Cliff, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ford Cliff, PA (ZIP Code 16228)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the availability and quality of healthcare services within the Ford Cliff, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16228) area, focusing on primary care physicians and related resources. This assessment considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The foundation of any health assessment begins with understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a crucial indicator of access to care. While precise, real-time data on physician counts and patient populations is often dynamic, available data suggests that the physician-to-patient ratio in the 16228 ZIP code, and the surrounding Armstrong County, may present some challenges. Rural areas often experience a shortage of primary care physicians compared to more urban centers. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to see a doctor, and potentially reduced access to preventative care. Identifying the specific ratio for this area requires accessing the most current data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of care hinges on the performance of individual practices. Identifying standout practices requires examining several factors. These include patient reviews, the adoption of modern technologies, and the presence of specialized services. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients, as evidenced by online reviews and patient satisfaction surveys, are likely to offer a higher level of patient care. The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a critical element. EHRs streamline administrative processes, improve communication between healthcare providers, and facilitate the sharing of patient information, ultimately leading to better care coordination.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to healthcare. Telemedicine offers a viable alternative for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and consultations. Its availability can significantly improve access to care for residents of Ford Cliff, reducing the need for travel and potentially shortening wait times. The extent to which practices in the 16228 ZIP code have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the ease of access, is a critical factor in evaluating the overall health score. This includes the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and counseling services, is crucial for addressing the mental health needs of the community. Evaluating the availability of these resources involves assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered, and the accessibility of these services. This includes whether providers accept insurance, the availability of evening and weekend appointments, and the presence of support groups and other community resources. The integration of mental health services with primary care practices, a model that promotes coordinated care, is also a significant positive indicator.

Specific practices within the 16228 ZIP code should be examined individually. The assessment should consider the range of services offered, the qualifications of the medical staff, and the practice's commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that offer a comprehensive range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized care, are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score. The presence of board-certified physicians and other healthcare professionals is another important factor.

The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, is another consideration. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for most patients, access to specialists is essential for addressing complex medical conditions. The proximity of these specialists to the 16228 ZIP code is a factor, as is the ability of primary care physicians to refer patients to these specialists efficiently.

The overall health score for Ford Cliff and the surrounding area is not a static number. It is a reflection of the dynamic healthcare landscape. The score is influenced by the availability of resources, the quality of care provided by local practices, and the community's overall health and well-being. Regular updates and assessments are necessary to track changes and identify areas for improvement.

Further research should include an examination of the insurance landscape within the 16228 ZIP code. The types of insurance accepted by local practices, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans, can significantly impact access to care. The availability of affordable health insurance options is a critical factor in ensuring that all residents have access to the healthcare they need.

Finally, the overall health score is influenced by the community's health literacy and its engagement with healthcare services. Initiatives that promote health education, preventative care, and healthy lifestyles can contribute to improved health outcomes. The presence of community health programs, such as free health screenings, wellness programs, and educational workshops, can also positively impact the overall health score.

The availability of transportation to medical appointments is another critical consideration, especially for elderly or disabled residents. The availability of public transportation or other transportation assistance programs can improve access to care and reduce barriers to healthcare.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in the 16228 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis highlights some of the key factors to consider when evaluating the overall health score, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Further investigation into these factors, combined with community engagement and data-driven analysis, can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment in Ford Cliff, PA.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare resources available in the 16228 ZIP code and surrounding areas, explore a dynamic map. CartoChrome maps provides an interactive platform to visualize healthcare data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information. This interactive tool allows you to explore the healthcare landscape in a more engaging and informative way.