17059, Mifflintown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17059, Mifflintown, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.54 percent of the residents in 17059 has some form of health insurance. 35.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.77 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 17059 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,722 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17059. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,482 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,376 health care providers accessible to residents in 17059, Mifflintown, Pennsylvania.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17059 and Primary Care Availability in Mifflintown**

Analyzing the overall health landscape for doctors in ZIP code 17059, which encompasses Mifflintown, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this specific area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of healthcare access. In rural areas like Mifflintown, the availability of primary care physicians often lags behind more urban centers. Determining the exact ratio for 17059 requires data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced preventative care, and potential delays in addressing health concerns. Furthermore, the geographic distribution of doctors within the zip code is important. Are physicians concentrated in a single area, or are they spread out to serve the entire community?

The presence of standout practices can significantly impact the overall health score. These practices often distinguish themselves through high-quality care, innovative approaches, and patient-centered services. Identifying such practices involves reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing online ratings, and assessing the range of services offered. For example, a practice that offers extended hours, accepts a wide variety of insurance plans, and has a strong focus on preventative care would likely receive a higher rating. The existence of specialty care within the zip code or easy access to specialists in nearby areas also contributes positively to the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access healthcare services remotely. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online prescription refills. The level of telemedicine adoption among physicians in 17059 is a key factor. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient access, reduce travel burdens, and enhance the efficiency of care delivery. Conversely, practices that lag in telemedicine adoption may limit patient access and potentially impact the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for addressing mental health concerns. Assessing the mental health landscape in 17059 involves identifying the number of mental health providers, the types of services they offer, and the availability of support groups and other resources. Areas with limited mental health resources may experience higher rates of untreated mental illness, impacting the overall health score negatively. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is another factor to consider, as this can improve access and coordination of care.

Beyond these specific factors, several other considerations contribute to the overall health score. The demographics of the population in 17059, including age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases, are important. The availability of health insurance coverage, access to transportation, and the presence of community health initiatives also play a role. Furthermore, the overall health score should consider the impact of social determinants of health, such as housing, food security, and education, which can significantly affect health outcomes.

The analysis of doctors in ZIP code 17059 and primary care availability in Mifflintown requires a nuanced understanding of these factors. A high overall health score would indicate a healthcare system characterized by a sufficient physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, ample mental health resources, and strong community support. Conversely, a low score would indicate challenges in these areas, potentially leading to reduced access to care and poorer health outcomes.

A thorough assessment would involve data collection from multiple sources, including surveys of physicians, patient interviews, and analysis of healthcare data. The assessment should also consider the perspectives of community members and stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. This data can then be used to identify areas for improvement and develop strategies to enhance the overall health score.

In conclusion, evaluating the health landscape in ZIP code 17059, specifically in Mifflintown, is complex. It requires a holistic view of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, mental health resources, and community factors. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the current situation and to identify opportunities for improvement.

To visualize the health landscape in Mifflintown and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain valuable insights into the overall health of the community.