16311, Carlton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16311, Carlton, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.00 percent of the residents in 16311 has some form of health insurance. 41.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.50 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 16311 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 64 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16311. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 93 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,655 health care providers accessible to residents in 16311, Carlton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16311 and Primary Care Availability in Carlton, PA

This analysis assesses the overall health landscape within ZIP code 16311, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians. The assessment also considers the broader context of Carlton, PA, evaluating its primary care resources and related health infrastructure. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the health environment, considering factors beyond simple physician counts.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In the 16311 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, a preliminary investigation suggests a potential challenge. The number of practicing primary care physicians in the immediate area appears limited relative to the population size. This potentially leads to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and increased strain on existing healthcare providers. This ratio is further complicated by the demographics of the area, including age distribution and prevalence of chronic conditions, which can increase the demand for primary care services.

Carlton, as a broader community, is also impacted by this physician availability. The residents of Carlton often rely on the same pool of physicians serving the 16311 ZIP code, which can exacerbate the existing limitations. The accessibility of primary care in Carlton is therefore directly tied to the physician-to-patient ratio and the geographic distribution of practices within the broader region. Rural areas, like Carlton, often face additional challenges, including transportation barriers to access care and a scarcity of specialists.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Evaluating the practices within the 16311 ZIP code requires looking beyond the presence of doctors. Are the practices accepting new patients? What is the average wait time for an appointment? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Are they patient-centered medical homes, with a focus on coordinated care? Do they participate in value-based care models, which emphasize quality over quantity? These are crucial questions in assessing the overall health of the primary care landscape.

Identifying standout practices is vital. These are the practices that consistently demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing best practices and embracing innovation. They may have invested in advanced technologies, such as electronic health records systems that facilitate seamless communication and data sharing. They may also have a strong focus on preventative care, offering comprehensive wellness programs and promoting healthy lifestyles. These practices often serve as a model for other providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element of the health score. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or living in geographically isolated areas. The extent to which practices in the 16311 ZIP code have embraced telemedicine is a key indicator of their commitment to patient convenience and modern healthcare delivery. Telemedicine can also help to alleviate the burden on primary care physicians by allowing them to manage certain conditions remotely and free up time for more complex cases.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is a critical factor in assessing the health of a community. Does the 16311 ZIP code have sufficient mental health resources to meet the needs of its residents? Are primary care physicians equipped to screen for mental health issues and make appropriate referrals? Are there partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers to ensure coordinated care? These are crucial considerations.

The availability of specialists also influences the overall health score. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the ability of primary care physicians to refer patients to specialists for more complex conditions is essential. The proximity of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and endocrinologists, and the ease with which patients can access them, are important factors to consider. This is especially relevant in rural communities, where access to specialists can be limited.

The role of community health initiatives should also be examined. Are there local programs focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, such as exercise classes, nutrition education, and smoking cessation programs? Are there partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations to address social determinants of health, such as poverty, food insecurity, and lack of access to transportation? These initiatives can significantly improve the overall health of the community.

The health of a community is dynamic. It is constantly evolving, influenced by various factors, including demographics, economic conditions, and technological advancements. Therefore, ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential. Regular assessments of the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the quality of care provided by primary care practices are necessary to ensure that the community’s healthcare needs are being met.

In conclusion, the overall health score for the 16311 ZIP code and the primary care availability in Carlton, PA, appears to be facing some challenges. While a comprehensive assessment requires more detailed data, the initial findings suggest a need to address the physician-to-patient ratio, improve access to care, and enhance the availability of mental health resources. Ongoing efforts to support primary care practices, promote telemedicine adoption, and foster community health initiatives are essential for improving the health of the community.

To visualize and further analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and community health initiatives, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 16311 ZIP code and surrounding areas.