17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.61 percent of the residents in 17009 has some form of health insurance. 44.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.07 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 17009 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 421 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17009. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 380 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,033 health care providers accessible to residents in 17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Burnham, PA (ZIP Code 17009)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Burnham, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding ZIP code 17009 requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, acknowledging that this is a complex issue.

The core of any health assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Burnham, and specifically within the 17009 ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in rural areas often indicates a shortage. Data from the U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and similar sources are essential to establish a baseline. The ideal ratio, often cited, is around 1:1,000. If the ratio in 17009 exceeds this significantly, it suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and consistent primary care. This shortage can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and an increased reliance on emergency room visits for non-emergency conditions.

Furthermore, the distribution of physicians within the area is important. Are the available physicians clustered in a specific location, or are they spread throughout the community? This geographic distribution impacts access for residents, especially those with limited transportation options or mobility challenges. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) or other safety-net providers is also crucial, as these facilities often serve a disproportionate number of vulnerable populations. These facilities are a key component of the overall health score.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care. This includes factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the implementation of evidence-based practices. Practices that are recognized for their commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education are significant contributors to a higher overall health score. Reviews from patients, accreditations from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), and participation in quality improvement initiatives all play a role in determining a practice’s merit.

The integration of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine has the potential to expand access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas like Burnham. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online patient portals are contributing to a more accessible and efficient healthcare system. Telemedicine can be especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing minor health concerns, reducing the need for in-person visits and potentially easing the burden on existing primary care physicians. The adoption rate of telemedicine technologies is a clear indicator of a practice's willingness to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of the community.

Mental health resources are an indispensable component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential. This includes access to these professionals within the primary care setting, which can improve access to mental health services. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services in the area is crucial. The integration of mental health services with primary care is a key factor in improving overall health outcomes. The overall health score is negatively affected by the absence of these resources.

Assessing the affordability of healthcare is equally important. This includes evaluating the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of services. High healthcare costs can be a significant barrier to accessing care, particularly for low-income individuals and families. Practices that are transparent about their pricing and offer payment options are contributing to a more equitable healthcare system. The ability of residents to afford their care significantly impacts their overall health.

The overall health score for Burnham, PA (ZIP code 17009) is therefore a composite metric. It is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the affordability of care. A high score reflects a community with readily accessible, high-quality, and affordable healthcare services. A low score indicates potential challenges in accessing care, which may lead to poorer health outcomes for the community.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Burnham, PA, and ZIP code 17009 requires ongoing monitoring and analysis. The dynamic nature of healthcare demands continuous assessment and adaptation. The availability of data from various sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and patient feedback, is critical to understanding the current state of healthcare in the area. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Burnham, PA, and its surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, demographics, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and informative way to visualize healthcare data, offering valuable insights into the accessibility and distribution of healthcare resources.