17099, Yeagertown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17099, Yeagertown, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.91 percent of the residents in 17099 has some form of health insurance. 53.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.48 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 17099 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 102 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17099. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 509 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 282 health care providers accessible to residents in 17099, Yeagertown, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Yeagertown, PA (ZIP Code 17099)

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for the availability and quality of primary care services within the Yeagertown, Pennsylvania area, specifically focusing on ZIP code 17099. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. It aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any health score lies in the fundamental availability of care. In Yeagertown, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the area often faces challenges common to rural communities. A limited number of primary care physicians (PCPs) serve a relatively dispersed population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to timely care, and potential strain on existing medical professionals. This scarcity directly impacts the overall health score, lowering it due to the inherent difficulties in accessing care.

The characteristics of the existing primary care practices also contribute significantly to the score. Are the practices modern, offering a range of services? Are they equipped with the latest technology, including electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient patient management and communication? The presence of ancillary services, such as on-site labs and radiology, can enhance convenience and improve the patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offering extended hours, weekend appointments, and multilingual staff, tend to score higher. Conversely, practices with outdated infrastructure, limited service offerings, or poor patient satisfaction ratings would negatively affect the overall score.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Yeagertown. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and expand access to care. The availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve the health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering convenient and accessible virtual options, would be viewed more favorably. Practices that have not adopted telemedicine, or have done so with limited functionality, would lower the overall score, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living far from a physical practice.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, directly impacts the community's well-being. Access to mental health services in Yeagertown is a significant factor. If the area has a shortage of mental health providers, or if wait times for appointments are lengthy, the overall health score will suffer. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, allowing for easier referrals and coordinated care, would be a positive factor. The availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health awareness programs would also contribute to a higher score.

Standout practices within the area can positively influence the overall health score. These are practices that consistently demonstrate a commitment to quality care, patient satisfaction, and innovation. They might have earned recognition for their patient outcomes, their use of technology, or their commitment to community outreach. Identifying and highlighting these practices can offer insights into best practices and provide valuable information for residents seeking quality healthcare. The presence of such practices elevates the overall score, demonstrating a commitment to healthcare excellence within the area.

The overall health score for Yeagertown, PA (ZIP code 17099) is, therefore, a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of various factors. The scarcity of primary care physicians, the characteristics of existing practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the final score. A low physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and a shortage of mental health services would likely result in a lower score. Conversely, practices with modern infrastructure, robust telemedicine offerings, and integrated mental health services would contribute to a higher score.

The specific data points used to calculate this score would include publicly available information from sources such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and healthcare directories. Patient reviews and satisfaction surveys would also be considered, providing a crucial perspective on the patient experience. The score is dynamic, reflecting the ever-changing healthcare landscape.

The assessment, therefore, provides a snapshot of the current situation. It highlights areas where improvements are needed and identifies strengths within the local healthcare system. It is a valuable tool for residents seeking healthcare, for healthcare providers looking to improve their services, and for policymakers seeking to address healthcare disparities. The score is not a definitive judgment but a starting point for a more in-depth understanding of healthcare access and quality in Yeagertown.

The assessment also considers the impact of external factors, such as the socio-economic status of the population and the prevalence of chronic diseases. Areas with higher rates of poverty or chronic illnesses may require more resources and support to improve their overall health score. The availability of social services, such as food banks and housing assistance, can also impact health outcomes and influence the overall score.

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for Yeagertown, PA (ZIP code 17099) reflects the complex interplay of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all contribute to the final assessment. It is a dynamic measure that can be used to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and inform decision-making. The score is a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and promoting better health outcomes for the community.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Yeagertown and surrounding areas? Explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics with CartoChrome maps. Gain valuable insights and make informed decisions about your health and well-being.