16351, Tidioute, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16351, Tidioute, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.63 percent of the residents in 16351 has some form of health insurance. 58.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.96 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 16351 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 311 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16351. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 464 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 680 health care providers accessible to residents in 16351, Tidioute, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Tidioute, PA (ZIP Code 16351)

Assessing the overall health score for a community necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, particularly the availability and quality of healthcare services. In the context of Tidioute, Pennsylvania, a rural community encapsulated by the 16351 ZIP code, this analysis delves into the landscape of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This investigation aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is access to primary care physicians. In Tidioute, the availability of primary care is a critical determinant of the overall health score. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, leading to potential shortages. A low physician-to-patient ratio signifies a potential strain on existing resources, resulting in longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, delayed diagnoses and treatment. Conversely, a favorable ratio indicates a more accessible and responsive healthcare system. The specific physician-to-patient ratio within 16351 needs to be carefully researched. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide insights.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. This involves evaluating the scope of services offered, the qualifications of the physicians, and patient satisfaction. Are there family medicine practices, internal medicine specialists, or pediatricians serving the community? Do these practices offer a full spectrum of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and urgent care? Patient reviews and feedback, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Examining the accreditation status of the practices and the physicians' board certifications provides additional indicators of quality.

Identifying standout practices in Tidioute requires a deeper dive into their operations and outcomes. This may involve looking at practices that have implemented innovative approaches to patient care, such as patient-centered medical homes or those that have demonstrated strong performance on quality metrics. For example, a practice with a high rate of preventative screenings or effective chronic disease management programs would be considered a standout. Investigating the integration of technology, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can also be a key indicator of a progressive and efficient practice.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The availability of telehealth services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to primary care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote locations. Assessing the extent to which local practices offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered, and the ease of access to these services is vital. This includes evaluating the availability of telehealth platforms, the training of staff in telemedicine technologies, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care workflow.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a significant factor in the health score. Rural communities often face shortages of mental health professionals, making it difficult for residents to access needed care. Assessing the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the availability of crisis intervention services is essential. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers can improve the coordination of care and ensure patients receive comprehensive support.

The overall health score for Tidioute, PA, will be influenced by the interplay of these factors. A community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality primary care practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health resources will likely have a higher overall health score. Conversely, a community facing shortages of primary care physicians, limited telemedicine options, and inadequate mental health services will likely have a lower score. The specific weighting of each factor will depend on the priorities and values of the evaluator.

The analysis must also consider the demographics of the population. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within the community will influence the demand for healthcare services. A community with a large elderly population, for example, may require more resources for geriatric care. Understanding the specific needs of the population is critical for developing effective strategies to improve the overall health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Tidioute, PA (16351) is a complex metric that requires a multi-faceted analysis. The availability and quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are key determinants of the score. A comprehensive assessment of these factors, combined with an understanding of the community's demographics, is essential for developing strategies to improve the health and well-being of the residents.