17347, Mount Wolf, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17347, Mount Wolf, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.37 percent of the residents in 17347 has some form of health insurance. 32.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.14 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 17347 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,616 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17347. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,074 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,536 health care providers accessible to residents in 17347, Mount Wolf, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Mount Wolf, PA (ZIP Code 17347)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Mount Wolf, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17347), requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the raw number of physicians but also the quality of care, accessibility, and the availability of crucial support services. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" assessment, encompassing physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. This assessment, while not a definitive grading system, aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem within the specified geographic area.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. While specific, up-to-the-minute physician counts are dynamic and change frequently, publicly available data, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health reports and the US Census Bureau, can be used to estimate this ratio. The analysis needs to consider the population of Mount Wolf and the surrounding areas that might utilize the same healthcare providers. A realistic assessment will account for the number of practicing primary care physicians, including family doctors, general practitioners, and internal medicine specialists, serving the area.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of the available primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices requires research into patient reviews, physician credentials, and the types of services offered. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, have a strong emphasis on preventative care, and offer a wide range of services, such as chronic disease management and specialized screenings, contribute significantly to a higher overall health score. This includes assessing the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-ray and lab work, which can improve convenience and reduce the need for patients to travel to other facilities.

Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial component of modern healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption in Mount Wolf is a significant factor in assessing the overall health score. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, enhance accessibility and convenience. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing minor health concerns, freeing up in-person appointments for more complex cases. Researching which practices offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the ease of access to these services is essential.

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources directly impacts the health score. The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors in the area is a critical factor. Access to mental health services should be relatively easy, without long wait times. Investigating the availability of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the acceptance of insurance plans is crucial. Moreover, the presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers can significantly improve the overall health score.

Assessing the overall health score also requires consideration of the area's demographics and socioeconomic factors. Mount Wolf, like any community, has its own unique characteristics, including age distribution, income levels, and access to transportation. These factors can influence health outcomes and the demand for healthcare services. A community with a higher proportion of elderly residents, for example, may require more geriatric care and specialized services. Furthermore, individuals with lower incomes may face barriers to accessing healthcare due to cost or lack of insurance.

The availability of specialized care, while not the primary focus of this analysis, also plays a role. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, dermatologists, and gastroenterologists, within a reasonable distance, can improve the overall health score. The need to travel long distances for specialized care can be a significant burden for patients, particularly those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Finally, community health initiatives and public health programs also contribute to the overall health score. These include programs focused on disease prevention, health education, and promoting healthy lifestyles. The presence of local health fairs, wellness programs, and partnerships between healthcare providers and community organizations can improve the health and well-being of residents.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score in Mount Wolf, PA (ZIP code 17347) requires a holistic approach. The analysis should consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the influence of demographic and socioeconomic factors. While the exact score will vary depending on the specific data available and the weighting of each factor, a thorough analysis can provide a valuable understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Wolf, including the location of healthcare providers, the distribution of services, and the accessibility of resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data, identify gaps in care, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.