16246, Plumville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16246, Plumville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.43 percent of the residents in 16246 has some form of health insurance. 58.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 44.29 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 16246 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 71 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16246. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 40 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 531 health care providers accessible to residents in 16246, Plumville, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Plumville, PA (ZIP Code 16246)

Evaluating the overall health landscape in Plumville, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 16246 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers key indicators of healthcare access and quality, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights for residents and healthcare stakeholders alike.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Plumville, assessing primary care availability involves examining the number of practicing PCPs relative to the population. A low physician-to-patient ratio signals potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and preventative care. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from insurance providers and local healthcare directories, is crucial. This data must be meticulously analyzed to determine the actual number of active PCPs, accounting for retirements, relocations, and specialties. The ideal ratio is a moving target, influenced by factors such as the age distribution of the population, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the presence of underserved populations.

Beyond raw numbers, the geographic distribution of PCPs is critical. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, leaving others underserved? Are there transportation barriers that limit access to care for some residents? Factors like the availability of public transportation and the proximity of practices to senior living facilities play a crucial role. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or rural health clinics (RHCs) would significantly boost the "Overall Health Score," as these facilities are designed to serve vulnerable populations, offering a range of services, including primary care, dental care, and behavioral health services.

Identifying standout practices is another key element. This involves researching practices known for their quality of care, patient satisfaction, and innovative approaches. Reviews from patients, data from healthcare rating websites, and information from professional organizations like the American Medical Association can be invaluable. Practices that emphasize preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education would score highly. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in value-based care models, focusing on outcomes rather than volume, would be viewed favorably. The presence of specialized services, such as on-site laboratory testing or physical therapy, can also enhance a practice's rating.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Plumville. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely, including consultations, follow-up appointments, and even chronic disease management. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered, and the ease of access for patients. Factors like the availability of reliable internet access in the area and the practice's ability to navigate the complexities of telehealth billing and insurance coverage are crucial considerations. A practice that embraces telemedicine and offers a user-friendly platform for patients would significantly contribute to a higher "Overall Health Score."

The integration of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential. Assessing this involves determining the number of mental health providers in the area, their specialties, and their accessibility. Are there long wait times for appointments? Are there sufficient resources for treating specific mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders? The presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices is a major positive factor. This model allows patients to receive both physical and mental health care in a coordinated manner, improving outcomes and reducing stigma. The availability of support groups, mental health hotlines, and crisis intervention services also contributes to a stronger "Overall Health Score."

To arrive at a final "Overall Health Score" for Plumville (16246), all these factors must be carefully weighed and analyzed. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental metric. The presence of standout practices, with their emphasis on quality and patient satisfaction, is a significant advantage. Telemedicine adoption enhances access to care, particularly for those in remote locations. The integration of mental health resources is crucial for addressing the holistic health needs of the community. Finally, the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, the availability of transportation, and the presence of safety-net providers all impact the overall score.

A comprehensive analysis would also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. These include poverty rates, educational attainment, and access to healthy food options. Addressing these social determinants of health is essential for improving the overall health of the community. This holistic approach ensures that the "Overall Health Score" accurately reflects the realities of healthcare access and quality in Plumville.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Plumville, PA (16246) is a complex evaluation, requiring a thorough assessment of various factors. By analyzing physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape emerges. This analysis provides a starting point for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of this data, including geographic mapping of physician locations, patient demographics, and healthcare resource availability, consider exploring the power of spatial data visualization with CartoChrome maps.