16936, Millerton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16936, Millerton, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.45 percent of the residents in 16936 has some form of health insurance. 40.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.76 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 16936 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 463 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16936. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 514 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,372 health care providers accessible to residents in 16936, Millerton, Pennsylvania.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16936 and Primary Care Availability in Millerton**

Assessing the overall health landscape within a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach, going beyond simple metrics to understand the realities of healthcare access and quality. This analysis focuses on the doctors and primary care availability in ZIP code 16936, encompassing Millerton, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ analysis, painting a realistic picture of healthcare accessibility and quality in this community.

The cornerstone of any health assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a fundamental understanding of the availability of medical professionals relative to the population they serve. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. In ZIP code 16936, a detailed investigation is needed to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio, considering the various specialties present, including primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers. Data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services and local healthcare networks would be crucial in calculating this ratio accurately. The presence of a hospital or larger medical facility in the broader region, even if not directly within the ZIP code, could positively influence the ratio by providing access to a broader range of specialists and services.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the gatekeepers of healthcare, providing preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. The availability of PCPs, their acceptance of new patients, and the ease with which patients can schedule appointments are all critical factors. In Millerton, a review of local practices, including their staffing levels, appointment scheduling processes, and patient satisfaction ratings, is essential. Are there enough PCPs to meet the community's needs? Are appointments readily available, or are patients facing extended wait times? Are practices accepting new patients, or are they at capacity? Answers to these questions will significantly impact the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices is another vital component of the analysis. These practices often exemplify best practices in patient care, offering a higher level of service, utilizing innovative technologies, or demonstrating a commitment to community health. Practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments, or comprehensive patient education programs are examples of those that stand out. Analyzing patient reviews, assessing the use of electronic health records (EHRs), and evaluating the practice's participation in quality improvement initiatives are all important. Furthermore, a focus on patient-centered care, where the patient's needs and preferences are prioritized, is a hallmark of a high-quality practice.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who live far from medical facilities or have mobility issues. Assessing the availability of telehealth services in ZIP code 16936 is crucial. Are local practices offering virtual appointments? Are specialists available via telemedicine? Does the community have access to remote monitoring devices for managing chronic conditions? The degree to which telemedicine is integrated into the healthcare system directly impacts the overall health score.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health. Mental health issues are prevalent, and access to care is often limited, especially in rural areas. Assessing the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors in the area is essential. Are there mental health clinics or support groups available? Are mental health services integrated into primary care practices? Are there resources for individuals struggling with substance abuse? The presence of a robust mental health infrastructure is a key indicator of a healthy community.

Beyond the availability of services, the affordability of healthcare is another critical factor. High healthcare costs can prevent individuals from seeking necessary medical care, leading to poorer health outcomes. Analyzing the cost of common medical services, the acceptance of insurance plans, and the availability of financial assistance programs is important. Does the community have access to affordable health insurance options? Are there programs to help low-income individuals afford healthcare? Addressing the financial barriers to care is essential for improving the overall health score.

The demographics of the community also play a role. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and cultural diversity of the population can all influence healthcare needs and access. Understanding the specific health challenges faced by the community is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet those needs. Are there specific health disparities that need to be addressed? Are there culturally competent healthcare providers available?

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 16936 and primary care availability in Millerton is a complex metric. It is not simply a number but a reflection of the entire healthcare ecosystem, from the availability of physicians to the accessibility of mental health resources. A thorough analysis of the factors discussed above, including physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, affordability, and community demographics, will be needed to arrive at a comprehensive and accurate score. This score should be viewed as a starting point for improvement, highlighting areas where the community excels and areas where further investment and improvement are needed.

To visualize this healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of resources and access, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping capabilities allow you to overlay various healthcare data points, such as the locations of doctors, hospitals, and clinics, with demographic information, creating a powerful tool for understanding healthcare access and identifying areas of need.