16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.31 percent of the residents in 16426 has some form of health insurance. 43.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.83 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 16426 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 596 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16426. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 844 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 635 health care providers accessible to residents in 16426, Mc Kean, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16426 and Primary Care Availability in McKean

Evaluating the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 16426, encompassing the town of McKean, Pennsylvania, requires a nuanced approach. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score," offering insights for residents and stakeholders.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. In a rural area like McKean, the availability of primary care physicians is often a limiting factor. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and a potential strain on existing healthcare providers. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health would be crucial in determining the precise ratio for 16426. This data would need to be cross-referenced with population estimates to provide an accurate picture. A concerning ratio would immediately signal a need for interventions to attract and retain healthcare professionals.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. This involves assessing factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the adoption of modern technologies. Practices that consistently receive high ratings from patients, offer comprehensive services (including chronic disease management, preventative screenings, and pediatric care), and embrace electronic health records (EHRs) are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score. Researching online reviews, consulting with local community health organizations, and analyzing data from insurance providers would be necessary to identify these exemplary practices.

Telemedicine adoption represents a critical component of healthcare accessibility, especially in rural settings. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to care for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options. The presence of telemedicine services within the primary care practices in 16426 would significantly boost the overall health score. This includes the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms for specialist consultations. Assessing the current level of telemedicine adoption would involve surveying local practices and analyzing their technological infrastructure.

Mental health resources are an increasingly important aspect of overall well-being. The integration of mental health services within primary care settings can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. This includes the availability of on-site therapists, psychiatrists, or partnerships with mental health providers. The presence of these resources would be a significant positive factor in the overall health score. Furthermore, the availability of community-based mental health services, such as support groups and crisis intervention programs, also contributes to a more robust mental health ecosystem. Researching the availability of these resources within and around 16426 is crucial.

The overall health score for 16426 would be a composite measure, weighing each of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio would serve as a baseline, with a favorable ratio contributing positively to the score. The presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources would all serve as modifiers, further enhancing the score. A high score would indicate a robust and accessible healthcare system, while a low score would highlight areas needing improvement.

The analysis process would necessitate data collection from various sources. This includes: the Pennsylvania Department of Health for physician-to-population data, online review platforms for patient satisfaction scores, practice websites and surveys for telemedicine adoption and service offerings, and community health organizations for mental health resource information. The data would then be analyzed and weighted based on their relative importance to the overall health of the community.

The final score would be presented in a clear and concise format, providing a snapshot of the health landscape in 16426. This score could then be used to inform policy decisions, guide healthcare investments, and empower residents to make informed choices about their healthcare. It is a dynamic measure, and regular updates would be necessary to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape.

The specific challenges of a rural area like McKean must be considered. Geographic isolation, limited transportation options, and the potential for a smaller pool of healthcare providers all contribute to the complexity of the healthcare landscape. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including efforts to attract and retain physicians, expand telemedicine services, and strengthen partnerships with community health organizations.

The goal is to provide a clear and actionable assessment of the healthcare environment. The resulting analysis would be more than just a score; it would be a roadmap for improving the health and well-being of the residents of 16426.