17266, Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17266, Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.61 percent of the residents in 17266 has some form of health insurance. 34.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.88 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 17266 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 90 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17266. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 85 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,923 health care providers accessible to residents in 17266, Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17266 & Primary Care Availability in Walnut Bottom

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 17266, encompassing the Walnut Bottom area, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem and identify areas of strength and weakness.

One of the primary indicators of health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Determining the exact ratio for 17266 necessitates compiling data from various sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau. This process involves identifying the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and dividing it by the population. The resulting figure provides a numerical representation of the availability of PCPs. A concerningly high ratio might indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of available primary care is crucial. This involves evaluating the reputation and performance of existing practices. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and data from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can offer insights into patient satisfaction, the quality of care provided, and the adoption of best practices. Identifying standout practices within the area requires a deeper dive. Practices known for their commitment to patient-centered care, preventative medicine, and chronic disease management deserve recognition. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to ongoing education and improvement, translating into better health outcomes for their patients.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical aspect of the health landscape. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, offers numerous advantages. It can improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Telemedicine can also reduce wait times for appointments and facilitate quicker follow-up care. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption in 17266 involves determining which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services available (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease with which patients can access these services. A high level of telemedicine adoption suggests a healthcare system that is adapting to the evolving needs of its patients.

Mental health resources are an indispensable component of overall well-being. The availability and accessibility of mental health services within 17266 are essential considerations. This includes assessing the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area. It also involves evaluating the availability of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services. The integration of mental healthcare into primary care settings is also a key factor. Co-locating mental health professionals within primary care practices can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. A robust mental health infrastructure is vital for addressing the growing needs of the community.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the demographics of the population served by the healthcare providers in 17266. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases can significantly influence healthcare needs. Understanding these demographics allows for a more nuanced assessment of the adequacy of existing healthcare resources. For example, an aging population may require a greater focus on geriatric care, while a population with a high prevalence of diabetes might necessitate more resources for diabetes management.

The geographic distribution of healthcare providers within 17266 is also relevant. Are primary care practices evenly distributed throughout the area, or are there pockets of underserved communities? Analyzing the geographic accessibility of healthcare services helps identify potential disparities in access and informs strategies for improving healthcare delivery. Factors like transportation options and the proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas are important considerations.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 17266 and primary care availability in Walnut Bottom is a complex undertaking. It necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of existing practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the demographics of the population served. While gathering all the necessary data can be challenging, the insights gained are invaluable for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and for identifying areas where improvements are needed. This understanding is essential for promoting the health and well-being of the residents of Walnut Bottom and the surrounding area.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of 17266, including the locations of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform can provide a dynamic and informative overview of the healthcare ecosystem, enabling a more informed understanding of the availability and accessibility of healthcare services in Walnut Bottom.