16848, Lamar, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16848, Lamar, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 74.41 percent of the residents in 16848 has some form of health insurance. 44.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.71 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 16848 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 26 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16848. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 43 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 356 health care providers accessible to residents in 16848, Lamar, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16848 and Primary Care Availability in Lamar

Analyzing the overall health score for doctors within ZIP code 16848, encompassing the town of Lamar, requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates assessing the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided, the integration of modern healthcare technologies, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis strives to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographical area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A lower ratio generally signifies greater access, while a higher ratio might indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving personalized attention. Data on this ratio within 16848, and specifically within Lamar, is crucial. This data should be compared to state and national averages to contextualize the local situation. If the ratio is significantly higher than the benchmarks, it points to potential shortages and a need for initiatives to attract and retain physicians.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves evaluating the presence of board-certified physicians, the accreditation of local hospitals and clinics, and patient satisfaction surveys. Are the physicians in 16848 highly qualified, and are they affiliated with reputable healthcare institutions? Patient reviews, when available, offer valuable insights into the experiences of individuals seeking care. Examining these factors, along with data on chronic disease management and preventative care metrics, provides a more nuanced understanding of the quality of healthcare delivered.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is also important. This involves recognizing clinics or individual physicians who demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches, or specific areas of specialization. These practices could be highlighted as models for others to emulate. Their success stories, whether in patient outcomes, patient satisfaction, or community outreach, can offer valuable lessons and contribute to improving the overall health score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical element in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine can significantly enhance access to care, particularly for individuals in rural areas like Lamar. It enables patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and offering greater flexibility. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption among physicians in 16848, including the types of services offered and the technology used, is essential. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine are likely to score higher in terms of accessibility and patient convenience.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall well-being, and their availability directly impacts the health score. Evaluating the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the ZIP code is crucial. Are these resources readily accessible, and are they integrated into the primary care system? The availability of support groups, counseling services, and crisis intervention programs also needs to be assessed. A community with robust mental health resources will naturally have a higher overall health score.

The availability of primary care in Lamar, specifically, is a key factor. This involves assessing the number of primary care physicians, the types of services they offer, and their appointment availability. Are there enough primary care physicians to serve the population of Lamar? Are they accepting new patients? The accessibility of primary care serves as a gateway to preventative care and early intervention, which are essential for maintaining good health.

Furthermore, analyzing the demographics of the population served by the healthcare providers within 16848 is important. This includes understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within the community. This demographic information helps to tailor healthcare services to the specific needs of the population and to identify any disparities in care. For instance, a community with a large elderly population may require more geriatric care services.

Moreover, the integration of technology beyond telemedicine is important. Do the local practices utilize electronic health records (EHRs)? EHRs streamline patient information, improve communication between providers, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. Practices that have embraced EHRs and other technological advancements are likely to offer more efficient and coordinated care.

The overall health score is not a static measure; it is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare ecosystem. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and to track progress over time. This includes gathering feedback from patients, conducting audits of healthcare practices, and staying abreast of advancements in medical technology and best practices.

Finally, the analysis should consider any unique challenges or opportunities specific to Lamar. This could include geographical constraints, transportation limitations, or the presence of specific industries that impact the health of the community. Understanding these factors helps to tailor healthcare initiatives to the specific needs of the area.

In conclusion, the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 16848 and primary care availability in Lamar is determined by a complex interplay of factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the specific needs of the community. A thorough analysis requires a comprehensive assessment of these factors, leading to a more accurate and actionable understanding of the healthcare landscape.

For a more detailed, interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape in 16848 and Lamar, including physician locations, practice details, and demographic data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.