16820, Aaronsburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16820, Aaronsburg, Pennsylvania is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 39.37 percent of the residents in 16820 has some form of health insurance. 13.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 32.42 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 16820 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16820. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 135 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 331 health care providers accessible to residents in 16820, Aaronsburg, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in 16820 and Primary Care in Aaronsburg

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for the availability and quality of healthcare within ZIP code 16820 (State College, Pennsylvania) and specifically addresses primary care access in the nearby community of Aaronsburg. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, identifies standout practices, examines telemedicine adoption, and assesses the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The healthcare landscape in 16820 is largely shaped by its connection to a major university, Penn State. This influences the demographics, the types of specialized care available, and the overall approach to healthcare delivery. The presence of a large student population, coupled with a significant number of long-term residents, creates a diverse patient base with varying needs. Aaronsburg, a more rural community, presents a different set of challenges and opportunities in terms of healthcare access.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is crucial for understanding the potential strain on healthcare resources. In 16820, the presence of a major medical center and numerous private practices generally leads to a favorable physician-to-patient ratio compared to more rural areas. However, this can be misleading. While the overall ratio might appear adequate, disparities can exist. Specific specialties, like certain types of mental health professionals or specialists in rare conditions, may have higher patient loads, leading to longer wait times and reduced access.

Aaronsburg, being a smaller community, likely faces a different scenario. The physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians is likely less favorable, with fewer doctors serving a smaller population spread over a wider geographical area. This can translate into longer travel times to appointments, increased difficulty in securing timely care, and a greater reliance on the healthcare infrastructure of neighboring towns, including State College.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Several practices within 16820 are recognized for their quality of care and innovative approaches. These often include practices affiliated with the local medical center, which benefits from advanced resources and research opportunities. Key areas of excellence often include specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology. Patient satisfaction surveys, available online, are a valuable tool for assessing the reputation and quality of care offered by different practices.

In Aaronsburg, the identification of "standout practices" is more challenging due to the smaller scale of the healthcare infrastructure. The focus is often on general practitioners and family medicine doctors. The quality of care, therefore, hinges on the individual doctor's expertise, experience, and commitment to the community. The availability of after-hours care and the responsiveness of the practice to patient needs are critical factors.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in the wake of the pandemic. In 16820, telemedicine adoption is generally high, driven by the availability of advanced technology and the willingness of both patients and providers to embrace remote healthcare. Many practices offer virtual consultations, online appointment scheduling, and remote monitoring services. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, those living in remote areas, or those seeking convenient access to care.

In Aaronsburg, the adoption of telemedicine might be less widespread, though it is still a valuable tool. Limited broadband access and technological literacy can present challenges. However, telemedicine can play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access, allowing residents to connect with specialists and receive consultations without having to travel long distances. The success of telemedicine in Aaronsburg depends on the availability of reliable internet infrastructure and the willingness of local providers to adopt and promote these services.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, and the availability of resources is critical. In 16820, the presence of a university often translates to a robust network of mental health services, including counseling centers, psychiatric clinics, and support groups. The university also plays a role in research and education, further enhancing the resources available.

Aaronsburg, however, might have limited mental health resources. Residents might have to travel to State College or other nearby towns to access specialized mental health care. The availability of therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups is likely to be lower. This can create a significant barrier to accessing mental health services, especially for those who lack transportation or have limited financial resources. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices in Aaronsburg could be a crucial step in improving access.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion:**

The 'Overall Health Score' for 16820 is relatively strong, reflecting the presence of a major medical center, a diverse range of specialists, and a generally favorable physician-to-patient ratio. However, disparities may exist within specific specialties and for particular patient populations. The adoption of telemedicine is a positive factor, and the availability of mental health resources is relatively good.

Aaronsburg, on the other hand, faces greater challenges in terms of healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio for primary care is likely less favorable, and access to specialized care and mental health resources is more limited. Telemedicine can play a crucial role in mitigating these challenges, but the success depends on infrastructure and provider adoption. Improving access to primary care and expanding mental health services are key priorities for Aaronsburg.

**Next Steps:**

For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 16820 and the surrounding areas, including Aaronsburg, consider exploring the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to explore geographic variations in healthcare access, identify areas with limited resources, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within your community.