16733, Hazel Hurst, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16733, Hazel Hurst, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16733 has some form of health insurance. 79.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 26.52 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 16733 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16733. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 118 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 354 health care providers accessible to residents in 16733, Hazel Hurst, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Hazel Hurst, PA (ZIP Code 16733)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Hazel Hurst, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 16733 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, primary care access, the adoption of modern healthcare practices like telemedicine, and the availability of crucial 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 foundation of any healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Hazel Hurst, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. This ratio, calculated by dividing the population by the number of practicing primary care physicians, provides a crucial indicator of access. A higher ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. Data from reputable sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau are necessary to accurately determine this ratio. Further investigation into the specific types of primary care available – internal medicine, family practice, and pediatrics – is also crucial to understand the breadth of services offered.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are vital. Identifying standout practices within the 16733 ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This involves examining factors such as patient reviews, accreditations (e.g., from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance), and the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer comprehensive services, and demonstrate a commitment to preventative care often stand out as positive contributors to community health. Investigating the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability is also important, as this can significantly impact the efficiency and coordination of care.

The modern healthcare landscape demands the integration of technology. Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services remotely via telecommunications technology, offers significant potential to improve access, especially in rural areas like Hazel Hurst. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by local primary care providers is a key component of the ‘Overall Health Score’. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered through telemedicine (e.g., follow-up consultations, medication management), and the ease of use for patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially overcome geographical barriers and provide more convenient care options.

Mental health is an increasingly critical aspect of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources within the 16733 ZIP code significantly impacts the community's health score. This includes assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Furthermore, the availability of mental health services integrated into primary care practices is a positive indicator, as it promotes early detection and treatment. Investigating the presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and access to crisis intervention services is also essential.

Beyond the core healthcare providers, other factors contribute to the overall health of the community. This includes access to pharmacies, specialized medical services (e.g., cardiology, dermatology), and community health programs. The presence of local hospitals, urgent care facilities, and other healthcare infrastructure is also a key consideration. Furthermore, access to transportation, particularly for those who may have limited mobility or live in remote areas, can significantly impact access to care.

Evaluating the ‘Overall Health Score’ for Hazel Hurst involves synthesizing all the above factors. This is not a simple calculation but a complex assessment that considers the interconnectedness of various elements. The final score should reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, providing a valuable snapshot of the community's health status. This score should be dynamic, reflecting changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolving needs of the community.

The score must also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. Poverty, education levels, and access to healthy food options all play a significant role in the overall health of a community. Analyzing these factors alongside healthcare data provides a more complete and nuanced understanding of the health landscape.

Data collection is critical. Gathering information from various sources, including healthcare providers, local government agencies, and community organizations, is essential to build an accurate picture. Patient surveys and feedback can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience and identify areas for improvement.

Continuous monitoring and evaluation are necessary. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the ‘Overall Health Score’ should be updated regularly to reflect these changes. This allows for proactive identification of emerging challenges and the implementation of strategies to improve community health.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ for Hazel Hurst, PA (16733) is not merely a number. It is a reflection of the community's commitment to health and well-being. It is a tool that can be used to inform decision-making, allocate resources effectively, and ultimately improve the lives of residents.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Hazel Hurst and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital access, and demographic data, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome.