17213, Blairs Mills, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17213, Blairs Mills, Pennsylvania is 4 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.54 percent of the residents in 17213 has some form of health insurance. 51.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.93 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 17213 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17213. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 173 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 37 health care providers accessible to residents in 17213, Blairs Mills, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17213 & Blairs Mills Primary Care

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 17213 (Chambersburg, Pennsylvania) and the specific availability of primary care services in the rural community of Blairs Mills, Pennsylvania. The evaluation considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This combined approach aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in these areas.

ZIP code 17213, encompassing the town of Chambersburg, benefits from a more developed healthcare infrastructure compared to the smaller, more isolated community of Blairs Mills. Chambersburg serves as a regional hub, drawing patients from surrounding rural areas. This creates a complex dynamic where the demand for primary care is high, potentially straining available resources. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. In 17213, these ratios are likely to be influenced by the presence of larger healthcare systems and independent practices. However, the precise ratio can fluctuate based on factors such as physician retirements, the influx of new residents, and the specialization of doctors. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, combined with information from healthcare directories, is crucial for determining an accurate physician-to-patient ratio.

Blairs Mills, in contrast, presents a different challenge. The rural setting often translates to lower population density and, consequently, a scarcity of healthcare providers. The physician-to-patient ratio in Blairs Mills is almost certainly less favorable than in Chambersburg. Residents may face significant travel distances to access primary care services. This geographical barrier can negatively impact health outcomes, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility. The availability of transportation, the presence of community health centers, and the potential for mobile medical services are all vital factors in assessing primary care accessibility in Blairs Mills.

Standout medical practices within 17213 are those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize advanced technologies, and offer a wide range of services. These practices often employ a team-based approach, involving physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care. They may also have extended hours, offer same-day appointments, and provide specialized services such as chronic disease management programs. Identifying these standout practices requires a review of patient reviews, accreditation status, and the types of services offered. The presence of such practices can significantly improve the overall health score for the area.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the health score. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine, and its continued use can significantly improve access to care, especially for residents of rural areas like Blairs Mills. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially expanding access to specialists. In 17213, the adoption of telemedicine likely varies among different practices. Some may have embraced it fully, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring, while others may have been slower to adopt this technology. In Blairs Mills, telemedicine could be a lifeline, enabling residents to connect with providers who may be located miles away.

Mental health resources are integral to overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is a significant factor in the health score. In 17213, the presence of hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practices suggests a greater availability of mental health resources compared to Blairs Mills. However, the actual accessibility of these resources depends on factors such as insurance coverage, wait times, and the availability of specialized services. Blairs Mills residents may face challenges in accessing mental health services, potentially requiring them to travel to Chambersburg or other larger towns. Telemedicine can also play a crucial role in bridging the gap in mental healthcare access, allowing residents to connect with therapists and psychiatrists remotely.

The overall health score for 17213 is likely to be higher than that of Blairs Mills, primarily due to the greater availability of healthcare resources and a more favorable physician-to-patient ratio. However, even in 17213, challenges may exist, such as disparities in access to care based on socioeconomic status or insurance coverage. Blairs Mills faces greater challenges, including limited access to primary care physicians, the need for extensive travel, and the potential for a lack of specialized services. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including efforts to recruit and retain healthcare providers in rural areas, expand telemedicine services, and increase access to mental health resources.

The health score is a dynamic measure, and continuous monitoring is essential to track changes and identify areas for improvement. Regular assessments of physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health resource availability are necessary to understand the evolving healthcare landscape. Data from patient surveys, healthcare provider reports, and public health agencies can be used to refine the health score and inform policy decisions. The goal is to create a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and provides high-quality care to all residents, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17213 and Blairs Mills, including the locations of healthcare providers, access to transportation, and demographic data, consider exploring interactive maps.