16621, Broad Top, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16621, Broad Top, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.93 percent of the residents in 16621 has some form of health insurance. 43.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.75 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 16621 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 164 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16621. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 124 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 200 health care providers accessible to residents in 16621, Broad Top, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16621 & Primary Care Availability in Broad Top

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape for residents of ZIP code 16621 (likely encompassing the town of Broad Top City and surrounding areas) with a specific focus on primary care availability. We will assess the current state of physician resources, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health services. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the health and wellness resources available to the community.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. A critical indicator of this accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, up-to-the-minute data requires constant monitoring, publicly available information, and local health department reports provide a general picture. We need to ascertain the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 16621 ZIP code or within a reasonable commuting distance for Broad Top residents. This number is then compared to the estimated population of the service area. A ratio of 1:1000 or lower is generally considered ideal, indicating a sufficient supply of PCPs. A higher ratio, for example, 1:2000 or worse, suggests a potential shortage, leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer overall health outcomes.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and diversity of primary care practices are crucial. Are there established, well-regarded practices within the area? Are these practices accepting new patients? Do they offer a range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialist referrals? Identifying standout practices involves researching patient reviews, assessing the qualifications and experience of the physicians, and evaluating the range of services offered. A practice with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction, a commitment to evidence-based medicine, and a multidisciplinary approach to care would be considered a valuable asset to the community.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in 16621 is a key factor in assessing overall health access. Does the area's medical community offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals? Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in remote locations. Its presence or absence will impact the health score.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being, yet often under-resourced, especially in rural communities. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within 16621 is crucial. This includes assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Are these professionals accepting new patients? Do they accept a variety of insurance plans? Are there any community mental health centers or support groups available? The availability of mental health services directly impacts the health and well-being of the population.

The assessment of these factors will lead to an overall health score. The score will reflect the availability and accessibility of primary care, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score will be a qualitative assessment, not a numerical one. A high score would indicate a community with readily accessible, high-quality healthcare resources, while a low score would highlight areas needing improvement.

To improve the health score, several strategies can be considered. Recruiting additional primary care physicians to the area is a primary need. Incentivizing medical professionals to practice in rural areas can be effective. Expanding the availability of telemedicine services, including virtual mental health consultations, can improve access to care for residents. Supporting existing practices to enhance their services, such as offering extended hours or employing a wider range of healthcare professionals, can also have a positive impact.

Furthermore, community outreach and education are essential. Promoting health awareness, encouraging preventative care, and educating residents about available healthcare resources can empower individuals to take control of their health. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial to creating a sustainable and thriving healthcare ecosystem.

The health score analysis is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular monitoring, data collection, and analysis are essential to track progress, identify areas needing improvement, and adapt strategies to meet the changing needs of the community. The health score should be a living document, updated regularly to reflect the current state of healthcare resources and the evolving needs of the population.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a community where all residents have access to high-quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare services. This requires a collaborative effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. By understanding the current state of healthcare resources, identifying areas needing improvement, and implementing targeted strategies, the community can work towards achieving this goal.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 16621 and surrounding areas, including the location of medical practices, the availability of mental health services, and other relevant data points, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their data visualization tools can provide a detailed and dynamic overview of the healthcare resources in your area, empowering you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your community.