17075, Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17075, Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.29 percent of the residents in 17075 has some form of health insurance. 37.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.26 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 17075 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 26 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17075. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 25 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 101 health care providers accessible to residents in 17075, Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Newton Hamilton, PA (ZIP Code 17075)

Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania, a small community nestled within Mifflin County, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare services within the 17075 ZIP code requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond simple numbers. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an informed "Overall Health Score" assessment, acknowledging the specific challenges and opportunities present in this rural setting.

The foundation of any health score lies in access to primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise, up-to-the-minute data for Newton Hamilton alone is difficult to obtain, we can extrapolate based on county-level information and regional trends. Mifflin County, like many rural areas, likely faces a shortage of primary care physicians compared to more urban centers. This means a higher patient load per doctor, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and less individual attention per patient. This, in turn, can negatively impact preventative care and early disease detection.

The presence of standout practices can significantly improve the health score. These practices often differentiate themselves through quality of care, patient satisfaction, and innovative service delivery. Identifying specific practices within the 17075 ZIP code requires detailed investigation, including online reviews, patient testimonials, and assessments by healthcare rating agencies. A practice that consistently receives high marks for patient communication, comprehensive care, and a commitment to preventative medicine would significantly boost the overall health score. Furthermore, the presence of specialists, even if they operate on a rotating or referral basis, would be a positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for bridging geographical barriers and improving access to care, especially in rural communities. Practices embracing telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive healthcare management. The availability of telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, improve appointment adherence, and provide access to specialists who may not be physically located in Newton Hamilton. Widespread telemedicine adoption would contribute positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are vital for overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a significant determinant of community health. Access to these resources, especially in a rural setting, can be challenging. The analysis must consider the number of mental health providers, their specialization, and the availability of services like individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management. The presence of crisis intervention services and support groups would also be a positive factor. A lack of mental health resources would significantly detract from the overall health score.

Beyond the direct provision of care, other factors influence the health score. The presence of community health initiatives, such as health education programs, wellness programs, and support groups, can contribute to improved health outcomes. Partnerships between healthcare providers and local organizations, such as schools, churches, and community centers, can expand access to care and promote health awareness. The availability of transportation services for patients, particularly those with limited mobility or transportation options, is another important consideration.

The assessment must also consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to healthy food options can negatively impact health outcomes. These factors create additional challenges for healthcare providers and necessitate a more holistic approach to care. The presence of social services and community support programs can mitigate the negative impacts of these socioeconomic challenges. The availability of affordable health insurance is also a critical factor.

In evaluating the "Overall Health Score" for Newton Hamilton, PA (17075), the analysis would weigh these factors, assigning relative importance based on their impact on patient outcomes and access to care. The final score would reflect a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape, acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses. A lower score would indicate significant challenges, such as limited access to primary care, a lack of mental health resources, and a low rate of telemedicine adoption. A higher score would reflect a more robust healthcare system, with a good physician-to-patient ratio, readily available mental health services, and widespread telemedicine adoption.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a static measure. It is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that the community's healthcare needs are being met. This includes tracking physician recruitment, telemedicine adoption rates, and the expansion of mental health services.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for Newton Hamilton, PA (17075) likely faces challenges common to rural areas, particularly concerning physician availability and access to specialized care. However, the community's health score can be improved by focusing on telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health resources, and fostering collaborations between healthcare providers and community organizations. The score serves as a valuable tool for identifying areas needing attention and for guiding efforts to improve the health and well-being of the residents of Newton Hamilton.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Newton Hamilton and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, hospital locations, and the availability of various healthcare services, consider using interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and informative view of healthcare access and availability, enabling you to better understand the complexities of the healthcare environment in this specific ZIP code.