17024, Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17024, Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.27 percent of the residents in 17024 has some form of health insurance. 29.22 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.28 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 17024 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 498 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 41 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17024. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 374 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,471 health care providers accessible to residents in 17024, Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Elliottsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17024)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17024) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the community.

The foundation of a healthy community lies in accessible primary care. Elliottsburg, a primarily rural area, faces inherent challenges in this regard. The geographic dispersion of the population often translates to longer travel times to access medical services. Examining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. National averages provide a benchmark, but rural areas frequently exhibit lower ratios. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a larger population, potentially leading to appointment delays and reduced access to preventative care. Data from reliable sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau is essential to determine the specific ratio within 17024 and compare it to state and national figures.

Identifying standout medical practices is vital. This involves researching the quality of care provided by existing providers. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management, geriatric care), and the use of technology to enhance patient care. Are there practices employing electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient information and improve communication? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments to accommodate diverse schedules? Are they actively involved in community outreach programs to promote health awareness? This analysis would require thorough investigation, including reviews from credible platforms and potentially contacting local healthcare providers for information.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. It offers a solution to geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. The availability of telemedicine services within Elliottsburg, and the willingness of local providers to embrace this technology, directly impact the "Overall Health Score." Investigating which practices offer telehealth options, the types of services available via telemedicine (e.g., virtual consultations, medication management), and the ease of access to these services are critical aspects of the evaluation. Factors like internet connectivity within the community also play a significant role in the feasibility of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health services within 17024 needs careful scrutiny. This involves assessing the presence of psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and other mental health professionals. Are there readily accessible mental health clinics or private practices? Are there partnerships with local hospitals or community organizations to provide mental health support? Are there programs addressing specific needs, such as substance abuse treatment or support groups? The accessibility of mental healthcare, including insurance coverage and affordability, significantly impacts the community's overall well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" for Elliottsburg would be a composite metric, reflecting the weighted average of these factors. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health resources would negatively impact the score. Conversely, a high-quality primary care network, widespread telemedicine availability, and robust mental health support would positively influence the score. The score, therefore, serves as a barometer of the community's healthcare ecosystem.

The challenges of providing healthcare in a rural setting like Elliottsburg are undeniable. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community leaders, and residents. Strategies to improve the "Overall Health Score" might include incentivizing physicians to practice in the area, expanding telemedicine infrastructure, increasing mental health service availability, and promoting community health education programs.

Furthermore, the analysis should account for socioeconomic factors. Poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to healthy food options can all negatively impact health outcomes. These factors, although not directly related to healthcare providers, can influence the effectiveness of the healthcare system. Therefore, understanding the socioeconomic landscape is crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

Data accuracy is paramount. This analysis relies on gathering reliable information from various sources. Public health agencies, professional medical organizations, and local healthcare providers are primary sources. Patient reviews, while subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for Elliottsburg serves as a snapshot of the community's health landscape. It provides a baseline for evaluating the current state of healthcare and identifying areas that require improvement. Regular monitoring of this score, along with the underlying factors, allows for tracking progress and making informed decisions about resource allocation and healthcare initiatives.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Elliottsburg, including the locations of medical practices, the distribution of healthcare professionals, and the availability of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for understanding the spatial aspects of healthcare access and identifying areas where improvements are most needed.