16845, Karthaus, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16845, Karthaus, Pennsylvania is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.75 percent of the residents in 16845 has some form of health insurance. 28.80 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.42 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 16845 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 118 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16845. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 206 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 376 health care providers accessible to residents in 16845, Karthaus, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Karthaus, PA (ZIP Code 16845)

This analysis assesses the overall health landscape within ZIP code 16845, encompassing Karthaus, Pennsylvania, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ for residents of this specific area.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Karthaus, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor in determining overall health. Unfortunately, rural areas often struggle with a shortage of healthcare professionals. The precise physician-to-patient ratio in 16845 is difficult to pinpoint definitively due to dynamic factors like physician mobility and patient migration. However, publicly available data from organizations like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can offer estimates. These sources would need to be consulted to establish a baseline. A low ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio indicates greater accessibility and, potentially, a healthier population.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts the overall health score. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several criteria. These include patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., from organizations like the Joint Commission), the range of services offered (e.g., preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and specialized care), and the integration of technology. Practices that actively embrace electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals often demonstrate a commitment to efficient care delivery and improved communication. Assessing these factors would involve detailed research, including reviewing online platforms, consulting with local healthcare professionals, and potentially conducting patient surveys.

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate within 16845 is an important indicator of the community's ability to overcome geographical barriers to care. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online appointment scheduling demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient convenience. Assessing telemedicine adoption would involve contacting local practices directly to determine their telehealth capabilities and the types of services they offer remotely. The success of telemedicine also depends on reliable internet access within the community, a factor that needs to be considered when evaluating the overall impact.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources within 16845 is crucial. This includes access to psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups. Assessing the mental health landscape involves identifying the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and their acceptance of various insurance plans. Furthermore, it’s important to assess the availability of crisis intervention services, such as hotlines and emergency mental health support. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is also critical for integrated care. A community with robust mental health resources will generally have a higher ‘Overall Health Score’.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ for Karthaus, PA (16845) would be a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health resources would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a high physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality practices, widespread telemedicine, and comprehensive mental health services would contribute to a higher score. The ultimate score would be a reflection of the community's ability to provide accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive healthcare services to its residents.

The challenges facing healthcare in rural areas like Karthaus are significant. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, investing in infrastructure (e.g., broadband internet), promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies is essential for improving the ‘Overall Health Score’ and ensuring the well-being of the community.

This analysis highlights the importance of understanding the specific healthcare landscape within a given area. The ‘Overall Health Score’ is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to health and well-being. The availability of primary care, the adoption of technology, and the accessibility of mental health services all play a crucial role in determining the health of a community.

For a more in-depth visualization of the healthcare landscape in Karthaus, PA (16845), including the locations of healthcare providers, population demographics, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, helping to identify areas with limited access and inform strategies for improvement.