17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.10 percent of the residents in 17320 has some form of health insurance. 35.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.37 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 17320 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,787 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17320. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,594 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,977 health care providers accessible to residents in 17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Fairfield, PA (ZIP Code 17320)

Fairfield, Pennsylvania, nestled in Adams County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. An "Overall Health Score" analysis, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care within ZIP code 17320, reveals a nuanced picture. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, signifying fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to care. Assessing this ratio in Fairfield necessitates examining the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 17320 ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. Publicly available data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health provides the population data. Physician counts can be obtained from professional directories, insurance provider listings, and healthcare facility websites. An ideal ratio would allow for timely appointments and consistent care, while a less favorable ratio could strain the existing resources.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. These are healthcare providers that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, potentially through advanced certifications, specialized services, or positive patient reviews. Analyzing patient feedback, gathered from platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc, provides valuable insights. These reviews often highlight aspects such as the physician's communication skills, the efficiency of the office staff, and the overall patient experience. Furthermore, examining the practice's accreditations, such as those from the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), can indicate a commitment to quality and safety. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, and provide comprehensive services would likely score higher.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like Fairfield. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, offers significant advantages, including increased access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing telemedicine integration involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring services, and online patient portals. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient convenience and enhance the overall healthcare experience. Examining the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of use of the platforms, and the availability of technical support for patients are key factors.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, within the 17320 ZIP code is a significant factor in the health score. Analyzing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the acceptance of insurance plans is critical. Furthermore, assessing the availability of crisis intervention services and support groups, such as those offered by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), contributes to a comprehensive understanding of mental health support. Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care offerings, such as through co-located behavioral health specialists, often demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

The analysis of Fairfield's healthcare landscape necessitates considering the impact of geographical factors. Rural areas often face challenges in healthcare access, including limited transportation options, a shortage of healthcare professionals, and a lack of specialized services. Assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities to residents, the availability of public transportation to those facilities, and the presence of community health initiatives can reveal potential disparities in access to care. Furthermore, the demographic characteristics of the population, such as age, socioeconomic status, and chronic disease prevalence, can influence healthcare needs and resource allocation.

The economic factors influencing healthcare access should also be considered. The cost of healthcare, including insurance premiums, co-pays, and out-of-pocket expenses, can significantly impact an individual's ability to seek care. Analyzing the acceptance of various insurance plans by local providers, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the presence of community health clinics that offer affordable care are essential. Practices that prioritize affordability and offer transparent pricing information often demonstrate a commitment to serving the community.

The overall health score for Fairfield, PA (ZIP Code 17320) is a composite metric. It requires integrating all the factors mentioned above. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources all contribute to the final score. The score also considers geographical and economic factors.

The analysis should not only quantify the availability of resources but also assess the quality of care provided. This includes evaluating patient outcomes, patient satisfaction, and the implementation of evidence-based practices. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to quality improvement, such as through participation in quality reporting programs or the implementation of patient-centered care models, should receive higher scores.

Fairfield's healthcare landscape is dynamic. It requires continuous monitoring and evaluation. Regular updates to the overall health score are necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, the introduction of new technologies, and the evolving needs of the community. This ongoing assessment provides valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents, enabling them to make informed decisions about healthcare access and quality.

This assessment helps paint a picture of the health of the community, and the resources available.

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape of Fairfield, PA, and surrounding areas? Explore the healthcare resources available in your community with CartoChrome maps.