17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.41 percent of the residents in 17214 has some form of health insurance. 59.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.54 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 17214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 158 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17214. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 314 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,096 health care providers accessible to residents in 17214, Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17214 and Blue Ridge Summit

Analyzing the overall health landscape of ZIP Code 17214, encompassing the Blue Ridge Summit area, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers factors beyond simple physician counts, delving into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any health assessment is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Blue Ridge Summit, the geographical dispersion of residents, coupled with the potential for an aging population, creates unique challenges. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. 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. While publicly available data sources provide some insight, a truly accurate assessment requires accessing local hospital records, insurance provider networks, and potentially, private physician databases. This data is essential to understand the true capacity of the primary care infrastructure.

Standout practices within 17214 would significantly impact the overall health score. These practices might excel in patient satisfaction, offer specialized services, or demonstrate innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Identifying these practices necessitates examining patient reviews, analyzing quality metrics (if available), and assessing the range of services offered. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, incorporating features like extended hours, same-day appointments, and effective communication strategies, contribute positively to the overall health score. The presence of practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems could also indicate a higher level of resources and access to specialized care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, phone calls, or online portals, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, those living in remote areas, or those seeking convenience. Assessing the telemedicine adoption rate within 17214 requires examining the practices of local physicians and healthcare providers. Are they offering telehealth appointments? Do they utilize secure online portals for patient communication and record access? A higher adoption rate suggests a more modern and accessible healthcare system, boosting the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health counselors within the ZIP code, or within a reasonable commuting distance, is essential. Assessing this involves researching local mental health providers, examining the services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and evaluating their accessibility. The presence of support groups, crisis hotlines, and mental health awareness programs also contributes positively to the overall health score. A community that prioritizes mental health, providing adequate resources and support, will generally experience better health outcomes.

The specific challenges faced by Blue Ridge Summit, such as its rural setting and potentially limited public transportation options, need careful consideration. These factors can exacerbate existing healthcare access issues. For example, residents without reliable transportation may struggle to reach healthcare providers, particularly those located outside of the immediate vicinity. This can be partially mitigated by telemedicine, but it highlights the importance of a multi-pronged approach to improving healthcare access.

Furthermore, the demographics of the population within 17214 should be considered. An aging population may require more specialized care, such as geriatric medicine and home healthcare services. The presence of these services, or the ability to access them, significantly impacts the overall health score. Similarly, the prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease, requires examining the availability of specialized care and disease management programs.

The overall health score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. It is important to continuously monitor the key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources, to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the community has access to the healthcare it needs. This involves ongoing data collection, analysis, and collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies.

The analysis also considers the presence of urgent care facilities and emergency rooms within a reasonable distance. These facilities provide essential services for acute illnesses and injuries. The availability of these resources, and their proximity to residents, is a crucial factor in the overall health score. Moreover, the quality of care provided by these facilities, as measured by patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes, significantly impacts the assessment.

Finally, the overall health score is influenced by the community’s health awareness and health literacy. Initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles, disease prevention, and early detection play a vital role. The presence of community health programs, educational campaigns, and readily available health information contributes positively to the overall health score. A community that is actively engaged in promoting health and wellness is more likely to experience better health outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for ZIP Code 17214 and Blue Ridge Summit is a complex undertaking that requires a comprehensive analysis of various factors. This includes primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the community’s health awareness. By carefully evaluating these factors, a more accurate and insightful assessment can be made, enabling the identification of areas for improvement and the development of strategies to enhance the health and well-being of the community.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points within ZIP Code 17214, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the local healthcare landscape, facilitating a more informed understanding of healthcare access and availability.