17109, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17109, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.76 percent of the residents in 17109 has some form of health insurance. 35.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.91 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 17109 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 6,117 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 45 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17109. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,050 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,699 health care providers accessible to residents in 17109, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

The overall health landscape within the 17109 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, presents a complex picture. Evaluating the health of a community requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not just the presence of healthcare providers but also accessibility, quality of care, and the availability of supporting resources. An 'Overall Health Score' analysis for this area must delve into these crucial aspects to provide a comprehensive understanding.

One of the most fundamental metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. This figure directly impacts access to care. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from the American Medical Association (AMA), provides a baseline for this analysis. However, simply looking at the raw numbers is insufficient. The distribution of physicians within the ZIP code is also critical. Are primary care physicians concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? This spatial analysis, utilizing mapping tools, is essential for identifying healthcare deserts and understanding the true physician-to-patient ratio for different segments of the population.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of a healthy community. Regular check-ups, screenings, and preventative care are crucial for early detection and management of chronic diseases. Assessing primary care availability involves more than just counting the number of practices. It requires evaluating the types of services offered, the acceptance of various insurance plans (including Medicare and Medicaid), and the ability to accommodate patients with disabilities or language barriers. The hours of operation and the availability of same-day appointments also play a significant role. Practices with extended hours and flexible scheduling options contribute to greater accessibility, particularly for working families.

Several practices within the 17109 ZIP code stand out in terms of their commitment to patient care. These practices often demonstrate a focus on patient-centered care, meaning they prioritize the individual needs and preferences of each patient. They may offer extended hours, online patient portals, and a team-based approach to care, involving physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. These practices often have strong patient satisfaction ratings and a reputation for providing high-quality care. Identifying these standout practices, and understanding their operational models, can provide valuable insights into best practices for improving healthcare delivery within the community.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in recent years. Telemedicine, or the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those who have difficulty taking time off work. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves evaluating the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely (e.g., consultations, follow-up appointments, mental health therapy), and the ease of use of the telemedicine platform. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow are often able to provide more convenient and accessible care.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. Mental health issues are prevalent, and access to timely and effective mental health care is essential for preventing serious consequences. The analysis must evaluate the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and other mental health professionals within the 17109 ZIP code. It must also consider the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, as well as the presence of community mental health centers and support groups. The integration of mental health services with primary care is particularly important, as it can help to reduce stigma and improve access to care.

The analysis must also consider the social determinants of health, which are the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes. These factors include socioeconomic status, education, access to healthy food, housing, and transportation. The 17109 ZIP code has its own unique demographics. Understanding the social determinants of health within this area is essential for developing effective strategies to improve overall health.

In conclusion, the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 17109 and primary care availability in Harrisburg is a complex calculation. While the presence of healthcare providers is a crucial factor, it is just one piece of the puzzle. Accessibility, quality of care, the adoption of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and the influence of social determinants of health all play significant roles. A comprehensive analysis requires a multi-faceted approach, incorporating data from various sources and considering the unique characteristics of the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Harrisburg, and to explore the spatial distribution of physicians, primary care practices, and mental health resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data, identify areas with limited access to care, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare challenges and opportunities within the 17109 ZIP code.