16701, Bradford, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16701, Bradford, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.40 percent of the residents in 16701 has some form of health insurance. 41.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.73 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 16701 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,620 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16701. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,690 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 369 health care providers accessible to residents in 16701, Bradford, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Bradford, PA (ZIP Code 16701)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Bradford, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16701) requires a multifaceted approach, examining not only the presence of medical professionals but also the accessibility and quality of care available to its residents. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The cornerstone of any health assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio. Bradford, like many rural communities, often faces challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased patient load per doctor, and potentially reduced access to specialized care. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and relevant national databases should be consulted to determine the precise ratio within ZIP Code 16701. This metric serves as a fundamental indicator of the community's capacity to meet its healthcare needs.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by individual practices is crucial. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. Reputation within the community, patient reviews (analyzed with caution due to potential biases), and the range of services offered are essential considerations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education often stand out. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the Joint Commission, can also be a marker of quality. Furthermore, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technological advancements can significantly improve efficiency and patient care coordination.

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely using technology, has emerged as a critical component of healthcare access, especially in rural areas. The degree of telemedicine adoption within Bradford is a key factor in our overall health score. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring, and virtual follow-up appointments can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Assessing the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., primary care, specialist consultations), and the ease of use for patients are essential components of this evaluation.

Mental health is an often-overlooked, yet critical, aspect of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources within Bradford significantly impact the community's well-being. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, as well as the availability of mental health clinics and support groups. Assessing the capacity of these resources to meet the community's needs requires examining appointment wait times, insurance acceptance, and the range of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management). Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is also a crucial factor, ensuring integrated and coordinated care.

To arrive at an 'Overall Health Score,' each of these factors – physician-to-patient ratio, quality of practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – must be weighted and analyzed. The weighting should reflect the relative importance of each factor in contributing to the overall health and well-being of the community. For example, a low physician-to-patient ratio might be given a higher weight, reflecting its fundamental impact on access to care. The final score will be a composite measure, providing a snapshot of the health landscape in Bradford.

Specific examples of practices within ZIP Code 16701 would be identified, analyzing their services and reputation. For instance, a practice with a strong focus on preventative care, a high patient satisfaction rating, and a robust telemedicine program would be highlighted as a positive contributor to the overall health score. Conversely, a practice with limited services, long wait times, and a lack of telemedicine options might negatively impact the score.

The analysis should also consider the broader context of healthcare in Pennsylvania. State-level initiatives and programs that support rural healthcare access, such as loan repayment programs for physicians or funding for telehealth infrastructure, can positively influence the overall health score. Conversely, any systemic challenges within the state's healthcare system, such as insurance coverage gaps or limited access to specialized care, can negatively impact the score.

Furthermore, the analysis should address the specific needs of the Bradford community. For example, if there is a significant elderly population, the availability of geriatric care services would be given greater weight. Similarly, if there is a high prevalence of chronic diseases, the availability of specialized care for those conditions would be prioritized.

The final 'Overall Health Score' would be presented in a clear and concise manner, summarizing the key findings and providing an actionable assessment of the health landscape in Bradford. This score would serve as a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

This analysis is not a static assessment. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and policy changes emerging regularly. Therefore, the 'Overall Health Score' should be periodically updated to reflect these changes and to ensure that it remains a relevant and accurate reflection of the health of the Bradford community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant data points within Bradford and surrounding areas, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps.