16255, Sligo, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16255, Sligo, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.98 percent of the residents in 16255 has some form of health insurance. 38.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.55 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 16255 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 385 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16255. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 354 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 438 health care providers accessible to residents in 16255, Sligo, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sligo, PA (ZIP Code 16255)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within the ZIP code 16255, encompassing the small community of Sligo, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators: physician availability, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. Each area will be assessed to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, culminating in a call to action.

The foundation of any healthy community rests upon the availability of accessible medical professionals. In Sligo, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A limited number of doctors, particularly primary care physicians (PCPs), can significantly impact access. The current ratio, compared to state and national averages, paints a picture of potential strain. This could manifest as longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for care, and a potential for delayed diagnoses and treatments. The specific ratio, unfortunately, is difficult to determine without direct access to proprietary medical data. However, the rural nature of the area suggests a potentially lower ratio than more urbanized regions.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of preventative medicine. The quality of primary care in Sligo is determined by several factors. These include the scope of services offered, the qualifications and experience of the physicians, and the patient satisfaction levels. Are there family doctors, internal medicine specialists, or pediatricians readily accessible? Do these doctors accept various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid? The presence of a well-equipped and staffed primary care practice is essential for managing chronic conditions, providing routine check-ups, and coordinating specialist referrals. Without this, the overall health score suffers.

Identifying standout practices within Sligo is paramount. This involves evaluating patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and examining the practice’s commitment to patient care. Practices with a strong focus on preventative medicine, chronic disease management, and patient education would likely score higher. A practice that actively engages with the community, participates in local health initiatives, and fosters a positive patient experience would be a significant asset. Such practices often become the trusted healthcare providers for generations of families.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. The ability to consult with a doctor remotely can mitigate the challenges of distance and transportation. The level of telemedicine implementation in Sligo practices is a key indicator. Are appointments available via video conferencing? Do practices offer remote monitoring for chronic conditions? The availability of these services can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery, which can positively impact the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential. The presence of these resources within the community, or readily accessible via referral networks, is a significant factor. Are there local counseling services? Does the primary care practice screen for mental health concerns? The integration of mental health services into the broader healthcare system is crucial for addressing the growing mental health needs of the population. A lack of these resources significantly detracts from the overall health score.

Assessing the overall health score for Sligo, PA (16255) involves weighting these factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited primary care options, a lack of telemedicine adoption, and scarce mental health resources would result in a lower score. Conversely, a higher score would reflect a robust healthcare infrastructure, with readily accessible physicians, comprehensive primary care, widespread telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health support. The specific weighting of each factor is complex and depends on the relative importance assigned to each element.

The overall health score is not simply a number; it represents the collective health of the community. It reflects the ability of residents to access the care they need, the quality of that care, and the resources available to support their well-being. Improving the overall health score requires a multi-pronged approach, including attracting more physicians, expanding primary care services, promoting telemedicine adoption, and increasing access to mental health resources. This is a continuous process, requiring ongoing evaluation and adaptation.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sligo, PA, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, a geographic information system (GIS) is invaluable. CartoChrome Maps provides a powerful platform for visualizing this data. By mapping physician locations, primary care practices, and mental health resources, a clear picture of access and availability emerges. This allows for targeted interventions and strategic planning to improve the overall health score.

Therefore, to delve deeper into the healthcare landscape of Sligo, PA (16255), and to visually explore the distribution of healthcare resources, we invite you to explore CartoChrome Maps.