17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.80 percent of the residents in 17228 has some form of health insurance. 39.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.40 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 17228 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 303 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17228. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 192 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 552 health care providers accessible to residents in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Harrisonville, PA (ZIP Code 17228)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Harrisonville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17228) requires a multi-faceted approach, moving beyond simple metrics to understand the nuanced realities of healthcare access and quality. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, evaluate the adoption of telemedicine, and examine the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an 'Overall Health Score' that reflects the community's health infrastructure and its ability to meet the needs of its residents.

Harrisonville, nestled within Fulton County, presents a unique challenge. Rural communities often face significant hurdles in healthcare access, stemming from geographical isolation, limited resources, and an aging population. These factors contribute to a complex interplay that influences the overall health of the residents.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is readily available primary care. Assessing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 17228 ZIP code is the first step. This data, however, needs context. Simply counting physicians is insufficient. We must consider the population served by these physicians to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio provides a critical indicator of access. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential difficulties in scheduling appointments, longer wait times, and reduced preventative care opportunities.

Furthermore, the types of primary care practices present are crucial. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger group practices? Group practices often offer greater flexibility in scheduling, as well as the potential for a broader range of services under one roof. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, within the primary care network can also improve access to specialized care.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, readily available online, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall patient experience. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), signals a commitment to quality and adherence to evidence-based practices. Practices actively participating in value-based care models, which prioritize quality and outcomes over volume, are also worth noting.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the health landscape. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can be a game-changer in rural areas. It can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access specialists and primary care providers without the need for lengthy travel. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within the 17228 ZIP code involves examining the practices' websites and inquiring about their telehealth capabilities. This includes the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring services, and the use of electronic health records to facilitate communication and coordination of care.

Mental health resources are a significant component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing the growing mental health needs of the population. Assessing the presence of these resources involves identifying mental health providers within the ZIP code or in neighboring communities. The availability of support groups, crisis hotlines, and mental health awareness programs also contributes to a supportive mental health environment.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Harrisonville, PA (17228) is therefore influenced by several factors. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of access. The higher the ratio, the more challenging it is for residents to access timely care. The presence of group practices, which typically offer a wider range of services and extended hours, can improve access. The adoption of telemedicine can significantly enhance access, particularly for those living in remote areas. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, counselors, and support groups, is essential for addressing the mental health needs of the community.

The overall health score also considers the presence of standout practices. Practices with positive patient reviews, accreditation, and participation in value-based care models contribute to a higher score. These practices demonstrate a commitment to quality, patient satisfaction, and evidence-based practices.

The specific data points would need to be collected and analyzed to arrive at a definitive score. This would include the number of PCPs, the patient population, the availability of telemedicine services, and the number of mental health providers. The quality of care provided by the practices, as assessed through patient reviews and accreditation status, would also be factored in.

Based on the available information, and the general challenges faced by rural communities, the overall health score for Harrisonville, PA (17228) likely faces challenges. The rural setting, with its potential for a lower physician-to-patient ratio, and the need for improved telemedicine adoption, suggests that access to care could be an issue. The availability of mental health resources, which is often limited in rural areas, is another potential area of concern.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Harrisonville, PA (17228), consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify areas with limited access and areas with a high concentration of providers. This can be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents alike.