17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.44 percent of the residents in 17236 has some form of health insurance. 33.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.28 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 17236 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,682 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17236. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,577 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,717 health care providers accessible to residents in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17236 & Primary Care Availability in Mercersburg**

Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, nestled in Franklin County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Evaluating the overall health score for doctors within ZIP code 17236 and primary care availability in Mercersburg requires a nuanced examination of several key factors. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in this specific geographical area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained resources. Data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio in 17236 is critical. National averages serve as a benchmark, but local conditions, including the age and health profile of the population in Mercersburg, influence the ideal ratio. A higher proportion of elderly residents, for example, would likely necessitate a higher physician-to-patient ratio to accommodate the increased need for medical services.

Identifying standout practices requires looking beyond simple numbers. Factors such as patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology all contribute to a practice's overall quality. Practices that consistently receive high ratings from patients, as evidenced by online reviews and patient surveys, are strong indicators of patient-centered care. The availability of specialized services, such as cardiology, dermatology, or gastroenterology, further enhances the value of a practice. Furthermore, practices that embrace technology, offering online appointment scheduling, patient portals, and electronic health records, often provide a more efficient and accessible experience.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas like Mercersburg. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via video conferencing or other digital platforms, can significantly improve access to care for patients who may face geographical barriers or mobility limitations. The extent to which doctors in 17236 have embraced telemedicine is an important indicator of their commitment to providing accessible care. The availability of telehealth consultations, remote monitoring services, and digital communication tools all contribute to a higher overall health score.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall well-being, and their availability in Mercersburg is a critical factor in assessing the community's health score. The presence of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, along with mental health support groups and community outreach programs, indicates a commitment to addressing the mental health needs of the population. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is another positive indicator, as it allows for early identification and treatment of mental health conditions. The availability of crisis intervention services and support for individuals struggling with substance abuse further strengthens the mental health infrastructure.

Analyzing the specific practices within 17236 is important. Identifying the number of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers is the first step. Then, assessing the services offered by each practice, including the availability of on-site labs, imaging services, and physical therapy, gives a clearer picture of the scope of care. Examining the practice’s patient-to-physician ratio provides insight into appointment availability. Finally, looking at patient reviews and ratings provides a qualitative assessment of the patient experience.

The Mercersburg community's demographics play a key role in evaluating the health score. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases all influence the demand for healthcare services. A higher proportion of elderly residents, for example, may necessitate a greater emphasis on geriatric care and chronic disease management. Understanding the specific health challenges faced by the Mercersburg population is essential for assessing the adequacy of healthcare resources.

The availability of support services, such as pharmacies, home healthcare agencies, and transportation services, also influences the overall health score. The ease with which patients can access medications, receive in-home care, and travel to medical appointments directly affects their ability to maintain their health. The presence of community health initiatives, such as health education programs and wellness activities, further enhances the community's health score.

The financial aspects of healthcare are also important. The acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the affordability of healthcare services all affect access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial assistance to patients who qualify contribute to a higher overall health score. Transparency in pricing and the availability of cost-effective treatment options are also important considerations.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 17236 and primary care availability in Mercersburg requires a multi-faceted approach. Examining physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and exploring the availability of mental health resources are all critical components of this analysis. Furthermore, understanding the community's demographics, the availability of support services, and the financial aspects of healthcare is essential for a comprehensive evaluation. This detailed analysis provides a foundation for understanding the healthcare landscape in Mercersburg.

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