16901, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16901, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.70 percent of the residents in 16901 has some form of health insurance. 43.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.96 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 16901 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,989 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16901. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,708 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 826 health care providers accessible to residents in 16901, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Wellsboro, PA (ZIP Code 16901)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 16901 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ for the community, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is accessible primary care. In Wellsboro, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. The town, being a rural area, often faces challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A high ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a greater ability for residents to receive timely and consistent medical attention. Research into the specific numbers of PCPs practicing within the 16901 ZIP code and the estimated population served is essential to determine the precise ratio. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health and Human Services and local healthcare providers should be consulted to derive an accurate assessment.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices within Wellsboro is crucial. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the adoption of modern medical technologies. Practices that consistently receive positive patient reviews, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, and embrace electronic health records (EHRs) are likely to be considered high-performing. Investigating the accreditation status of local practices, such as whether they are affiliated with larger healthcare systems or hold specific certifications, can also provide insights into their quality of care. Furthermore, exploring the availability of specialized services within these practices, such as chronic disease management programs or geriatric care, will contribute to a more nuanced understanding of their capabilities.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption rate in Wellsboro is a significant indicator of the community's access to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing the prevalence of telemedicine services among local primary care providers, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the level of patient adoption, is essential. The presence of telehealth infrastructure, such as reliable internet connectivity, within the community also plays a crucial role in determining the feasibility and effectiveness of telemedicine initiatives.

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources in Wellsboro are critical to the community's health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and support groups. Evaluating the number of mental health professionals practicing within the 16901 ZIP code, the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the insurance plans they accept are important. Additionally, assessing the availability of crisis intervention services, such as hotlines or mobile crisis units, is essential for addressing immediate mental health needs. Furthermore, understanding the community's awareness of and access to mental health resources is crucial. This involves evaluating the presence of mental health awareness campaigns, educational programs, and partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations.

Analyzing all these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources – allows for a holistic assessment of the overall health landscape in Wellsboro. The final ‘Overall Health Score’ would be a composite metric, reflecting the relative strengths and weaknesses of the community's healthcare infrastructure. A high score would indicate a robust and accessible healthcare system, while a low score would highlight areas requiring improvement.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ is not a static measure. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the arrival of new physicians, the expansion of telemedicine services, or the implementation of new mental health initiatives. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are crucial for ensuring that the community's healthcare needs are being met effectively.

The information gathered should also inform local healthcare providers and policymakers. By understanding the community's health strengths and weaknesses, they can make informed decisions about resource allocation, program development, and policy changes. For instance, if the physician-to-patient ratio is unfavorable, efforts can be made to recruit and retain more doctors. If telemedicine adoption is low, initiatives can be launched to promote its use. If mental health resources are scarce, programs can be developed to address the unmet needs.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health of Wellsboro, PA (16901) requires a comprehensive and data-driven approach. Evaluating the availability of primary care, the quality of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources provides a foundation for understanding the community’s health landscape. This analysis should be an ongoing process, informing decisions and driving improvements in the health and well-being of the residents.

For a visually compelling representation of the healthcare landscape in Wellsboro and surrounding areas, consider exploring the power of spatial data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a clear and informative overview of physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and other relevant data points, helping to visualize the community's health resources and identify areas where improvements are needed.