16950, Westfield, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 16950, Westfield, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.87 percent of the residents in 16950 has some form of health insurance. 48.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.89 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 16950 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 738 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16950. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 738 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 462 health care providers accessible to residents in 16950, Westfield, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Westfield, PA (ZIP Code 16950)

Assessing the overall health landscape within the Westfield, Pennsylvania ZIP code of 16950 requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of medical professionals. We must delve into physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of available primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources to paint a comprehensive picture. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the area.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on accessible primary care. In Westfield, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical indicator. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is the first step. This ratio reflects the number of residents per PCP. A higher ratio suggests potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a lower ratio generally indicates greater access. Determining the precise ratio for 16950 requires data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and potentially local hospital systems or clinics. Without this specific data, the assessment must rely on generalizations and assumptions based on broader regional trends.

Assuming a rural setting, 16950 likely faces challenges common to such areas. Physician shortages are a persistent problem in rural Pennsylvania. If the physician-to-patient ratio is unfavorable, it could indicate a need for interventions. These could include incentivizing medical professionals to practice in the area, supporting telehealth initiatives, or expanding the scope of practice for nurse practitioners and physician assistants.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This involves evaluating the presence of well-regarded practices within the area. Are there any standout clinics or individual practitioners known for their patient-centered care, positive reviews, and commitment to preventative medicine? Researching patient satisfaction scores, physician certifications, and the adoption of best practices (e.g., electronic health records, chronic disease management programs) is crucial. Identifying these high-performing practices can highlight models for improvement and provide valuable information for residents seeking care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access. Does 16950 have providers offering telehealth consultations? Are these services readily accessible and affordable? Telemedicine can improve access to primary care, specialist consultations, and mental health services, ultimately improving the overall health score. The extent to which telemedicine is integrated into the local healthcare system will significantly impact the assessment.

Mental health resources are a crucial element of overall well-being. Access to mental healthcare is often limited in rural areas. The analysis must investigate the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within or near 16950. Are there mental health clinics or programs? Are there resources for substance abuse treatment? Are mental health services covered by local insurance plans and accessible to all residents? A scarcity of mental health resources will negatively impact the overall health score. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care settings can also be assessed, as this can facilitate earlier detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

Another important aspect of the health assessment is the availability of specialized care. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the proximity to specialists (cardiologists, neurologists, etc.) is also relevant. Are there nearby hospitals or medical centers that offer a broad range of specialty services? The ability to access specialized care without significant travel time contributes to a higher overall health score.

The overall health score for Westfield, PA (16950) is a composite of these factors. It is not a single number but a nuanced assessment. If the physician-to-patient ratio is favorable, primary care practices are of high quality, telemedicine is widely adopted, and mental health resources are readily available, the score will be higher. Conversely, if there are shortages of PCPs, limited access to specialized care, a lack of telemedicine options, and inadequate mental health services, the score will be lower.

The assessment must also consider the socio-economic factors that influence health outcomes. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to healthy food options can negatively impact health. These factors, while not directly related to healthcare providers, must be considered in a comprehensive evaluation.

To improve the overall health score, the community could focus on several areas. Recruiting and retaining physicians, expanding telehealth services, increasing access to mental health resources, and addressing social determinants of health are all important. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential.

The assessment of the health landscape in Westfield, PA (16950) is complex. It requires gathering and analyzing data from multiple sources. The specific physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical factors in determining the overall health score. Addressing any identified shortcomings and promoting a proactive approach to healthcare will be essential to improving the health and well-being of the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Westfield, PA (16950), including the location of healthcare providers, access to resources, and other relevant data, explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps.