17097, Wiconisco, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17097, Wiconisco, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.23 percent of the residents in 17097 has some form of health insurance. 49.94 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.61 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 17097 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 181 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17097. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 141 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,247 health care providers accessible to residents in 17097, Wiconisco, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17097 & Wiconisco Primary Care

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape of ZIP Code 17097 (Wiconisco, Pennsylvania) focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. We will assess various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, noteworthy medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This evaluation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographical area.

The core of a healthy community lies in accessible and robust primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial first step. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, diminished access to care. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests a more accessible healthcare system. Specific data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 17097 requires detailed, up-to-date information that may not be readily available publicly. However, we can infer general trends based on regional and national averages. Rural areas, like Wiconisco, often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, potentially resulting in a less favorable ratio compared to urban centers.

Identifying standout medical practices within the area is equally important. These practices often serve as beacons of quality care, setting standards for others to emulate. Evaluating these practices requires considering factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management), the utilization of technology, and the overall reputation within the community. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace innovation, and actively participate in community health initiatives are likely to be considered exemplary. Investigating these practices would involve reviewing online reviews, contacting local healthcare organizations, and potentially conducting patient surveys.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element in assessing the health landscape. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers, providing access to healthcare services for individuals in rural areas where physician availability may be limited. The extent to which telemedicine is integrated into the primary care practices in 17097 is a key indicator of the community's ability to leverage technology to improve healthcare access. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to embracing technology to enhance patient care and convenience. Researching the local practices to determine their telemedicine capabilities is important.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being. Access to mental health services is often a significant challenge, particularly in rural areas. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within and around 17097 is essential. Furthermore, assessing the presence of community mental health programs, support groups, and resources for substance abuse treatment is crucial. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as offering on-site counseling or establishing referral pathways to mental health specialists, is a positive indicator of a comprehensive healthcare system. Finding specific information on the availability of mental health services would involve contacting local healthcare providers, researching community resources, and reviewing mental health directories.

The overall health score for ZIP Code 17097 would be a composite of these factors. A favorable score would indicate a high physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of reputable medical practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources. A less favorable score would suggest the opposite. The final score would be a nuanced assessment, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in Wiconisco.

The specific challenges faced by rural communities like Wiconisco include attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, overcoming geographical barriers, and addressing the social determinants of health. These social determinants, such as poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to healthy food, can significantly impact health outcomes. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, involving collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government.

Improving healthcare access in 17097 requires a proactive approach. This could involve initiatives to incentivize physicians to practice in rural areas, expand telemedicine capabilities, increase the availability of mental health services, and address the social determinants of health. Community involvement is crucial in shaping a healthier future.

This analysis provides a framework for understanding the health landscape in ZIP Code 17097. Further research, involving data collection and on-site investigations, would be needed to provide a more precise assessment. This would include gathering specific data on physician-to-patient ratios, the services offered by local practices, the availability of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wiconisco and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the location of healthcare providers, the distribution of health resources, and other relevant geographical data.