17064, Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17064, Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17064 has some form of health insurance. 37.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.64 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 17064 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 233 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 49 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17064. An estimate of 18 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 343 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 16,049 health care providers accessible to residents in 17064, Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Mount Gretna (ZIP Code 17064)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17064) area, focusing on primary care availability and the broader health landscape. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility and quality for residents.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Mount Gretna, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is critical. This metric gauges the number of primary care doctors per 1,000 residents. A higher ratio typically indicates better access to care. However, the actual ratio needs to be interpreted considering factors like the age and health needs of the population. Elderly populations, for example, often require more frequent medical attention, potentially straining the available resources.

To accurately assess the physician-to-patient ratio, we need to consider the geographical boundaries of the analysis. While this analysis focuses on ZIP Code 17064, residents frequently seek care outside this area. They may travel to nearby towns like Lebanon, Hershey, or even Harrisburg. Therefore, the true picture of primary care availability is influenced by the broader regional healthcare network. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and local medical societies would provide more precise figures.

Beyond physician numbers, the quality and reputation of local practices are essential. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors like patient reviews, accreditation status, and the range of services offered. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients and demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement are invaluable assets to the community.

Another critical aspect is the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, offers significant benefits, especially for rural communities. It can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and facilitate consultations with specialists. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring, are contributing to a more accessible and convenient healthcare experience for residents.

Mental health resources are an increasingly important element of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a key indicator of community well-being. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer, and the accessibility of those services.

The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships with local schools and organizations are also critical. Communities with robust mental health support systems tend to experience better overall health outcomes. This includes not only access to treatment but also efforts to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

The analysis should also consider the presence of specialized care. While primary care is the cornerstone, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and dermatologists, is also important. The presence of these specialists reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care, improving convenience and potentially leading to earlier diagnoses and treatment.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the demographics of the population. Mount Gretna, like any community, has unique health needs based on its demographics. Factors like age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases will influence the demand for healthcare services. Understanding these demographics helps to tailor healthcare services to the specific needs of the community.

The analysis should also examine the presence of community health initiatives. These initiatives can range from public health campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles to programs addressing specific health challenges within the community. The presence of these initiatives demonstrates a commitment to preventative care and community well-being.

The overall health score should also incorporate data on health outcomes. This includes indicators like life expectancy, infant mortality rates, and the prevalence of chronic diseases. These outcomes provide a direct measure of the effectiveness of the healthcare system and the overall health of the community.

The analysis should also consider the role of insurance coverage. The percentage of the population with health insurance, the types of insurance plans available, and the affordability of healthcare services are all important factors. Communities with high rates of insurance coverage and affordable healthcare tend to have better health outcomes.

The analysis should also consider the presence of urgent care facilities and emergency services. These facilities provide immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions and are essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare. The proximity of these facilities and the quality of their services are important factors in the overall health score.

The analysis should also consider the level of health literacy within the community. Health literacy refers to an individual's ability to understand and use health information. Communities with higher levels of health literacy tend to make better healthcare decisions and have better health outcomes.

The analysis should also consider the presence of transportation options for accessing healthcare. This is particularly important for communities with elderly populations or those with limited access to transportation. The availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and volunteer transportation programs can significantly improve access to care.

In conclusion, a comprehensive assessment of healthcare in Mount Gretna (ZIP Code 17064) requires a multi-faceted approach. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, the reputation of local practices, the integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the broader community health landscape. This holistic approach provides a more accurate and useful picture of healthcare accessibility and quality for residents.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Mount Gretna and surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and other relevant data points, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.