17098, Williamstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17098, Williamstown, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.53 percent of the residents in 17098 has some form of health insurance. 47.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.45 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 17098 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 601 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17098. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 362 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,508 health care providers accessible to residents in 17098, Williamstown, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Williamstown, PA (ZIP Code 17098)

Analyzing the overall health score for Williamstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17098) necessitates a multifaceted approach. We'll examine the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), assess the physician-to-patient ratio, evaluate the adoption of telemedicine, and gauge the availability of mental health resources. This analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this community.

Williamstown, a small town nestled in central Pennsylvania, faces unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The town’s demographics, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, significantly impact the demand for and utilization of healthcare services. This analysis will consider these factors in evaluating the overall health score.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratio**

A fundamental aspect of a healthy community is the accessibility of primary care. This involves not just the presence of PCPs but also their availability to patients. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio for Williamstown requires accessing current data. However, we can make some general observations. Rural areas often experience shortages of healthcare professionals. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary care.

The population density in Williamstown is likely lower than in more urban areas. This can exacerbate the challenges of healthcare access, as physicians may be spread out over a larger geographic area. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and other critical medical experts, also impacts the overall health score. The need to travel long distances for specialized care can negatively affect patient outcomes and overall health.

**Standout Practices and Healthcare Providers**

Identifying standout practices within the Williamstown area requires a review of patient reviews, healthcare quality metrics, and the range of services offered. Practices that emphasize patient-centered care, utilize advanced technology, and demonstrate a commitment to community health are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score.

Factors such as the practice's accreditation status, the qualifications of the physicians and staff, and the availability of ancillary services (e.g., laboratory, imaging) all play a role in determining the quality of care. Practices that are actively involved in community outreach and health education initiatives also contribute to a healthier community.

**Telemedicine Adoption: A Critical Factor**

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural communities. The adoption of telemedicine by healthcare providers in Williamstown is a significant indicator of the overall health score. Telemedicine can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to access care, particularly for follow-up appointments, chronic disease management, and mental health services.

The availability of telehealth services for various specialties, including primary care, mental health, and chronic disease management, is essential. The ease of use of telehealth platforms, the technical infrastructure supporting these services, and the willingness of both patients and providers to embrace this technology all influence its effectiveness.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources in Williamstown are crucial for assessing the community's health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors.

The availability of mental health services, including therapy, medication management, and crisis intervention, is a critical factor. The stigma surrounding mental health can hinder access to care. Communities that actively work to reduce stigma and promote mental health awareness often see improved outcomes.

**Specific Considerations for Williamstown**

Williamstown's location in a rural area means that the availability of specialists and specialized services may be limited. The town’s demographics, including the age distribution of the population, may also influence healthcare needs. For example, a higher proportion of elderly residents may increase the demand for geriatric care and chronic disease management services.

The socioeconomic status of the community also impacts healthcare access. Individuals with lower incomes may face challenges in affording healthcare services, including insurance premiums, co-pays, and medications. This can lead to delayed or forgone care, negatively affecting the overall health score.

**Data and Analysis Methodology**

This analysis relies on publicly available data, including information from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state health departments. Data on physician availability, hospital capacity, and mental health resources are gathered from professional directories and healthcare provider websites. Patient reviews and ratings are considered to identify standout practices.

The overall health score is determined by considering the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the quality of care provided by healthcare providers. The score is a composite measure reflecting the community's ability to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare to its residents.

**Conclusion**

Assessing the overall health score for Williamstown, PA (ZIP Code 17098) involves a detailed analysis of several key factors. While this overview provides a general assessment, a more in-depth analysis would require access to current data on physician availability, patient demographics, and healthcare utilization rates.

For a comprehensive, data-driven understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution in Williamstown, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations and geospatial analysis tools to map healthcare resources, identify areas of need, and support informed decision-making.