17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.18 percent of the residents in 17094 has some form of health insurance. 39.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.37 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 17094 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 651 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17094. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 566 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,550 health care providers accessible to residents in 17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Thompsontown, PA (ZIP Code 17094)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Thompsontown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17094) requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of doctors. It involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the availability of primary care, examining the adoption of telemedicine, and understanding the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for the community.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Thompsontown, a rural area, this ratio is likely a critical factor. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and local healthcare providers must be consulted to determine the precise ratio. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments, preventative care, and specialist consultations. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is particularly crucial. They act as the entry point to the healthcare system, coordinating care and providing preventative services.

Primary care availability in Thompsontown, specifically, needs detailed investigation. Are there enough PCPs to meet the community's needs? Are they accepting new patients? What are the wait times for appointments? This information can be gathered through online directories, patient reviews, and direct contact with medical practices. The presence of a community health center or federally qualified health center (FQHC) would significantly improve the score, offering comprehensive services, including those for underserved populations.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of care provided by individual practices is important. Identifying standout practices involves examining patient satisfaction scores, which can be found on platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc. Reviews often highlight factors such as physician communication, wait times, and the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and provide culturally sensitive services would contribute positively to the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption is a key element of modern healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Thompsontown. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and routine checkups via video conferencing or phone calls. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within the community involves determining which practices offer telehealth options, the types of services available (e.g., primary care, mental health, specialist consultations), and the ease of access for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering convenient and accessible virtual care, would receive a higher score.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is crucial. In Thompsontown, determining the number of mental health providers, their acceptance of insurance, and the wait times for appointments is necessary. The presence of community-based mental health services, such as support groups or crisis intervention programs, would significantly enhance the score. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is another positive factor, ensuring integrated care.

Specific examples of practices within the 17094 ZIP code, if known, would further enhance the analysis. For example, if “Thompsontown Family Practice” is a well-regarded practice, its attributes would be highlighted. If “Thompsontown Behavioral Health” offers accessible mental health services, it would be noted. The presence of a hospital or urgent care facility in or near Thompsontown would also be factored in, as these facilities provide essential acute care services.

The overall health score is not a static number; it is a reflection of the current state of healthcare access, quality, and resources. Regular updates are necessary to track improvements and address any shortcomings. The score should consider the demographics of the community, including age, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases. Addressing health disparities within the community is crucial.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Thompsontown (ZIP Code 17094) depends on a complex interplay of factors. While the physician-to-patient ratio and primary care availability are fundamental, the quality of individual practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources significantly influence the overall health landscape. A comprehensive assessment requires gathering and analyzing data from various sources, including government agencies, healthcare providers, and patient feedback. The score should be dynamic, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and quality for the residents of Thompsontown.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Thompsontown and surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, physician specialties, and demographic data, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling a more informed assessment of healthcare access and resource allocation. Explore CartoChrome maps today to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment in your community.