17355, Railroad, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17355, Railroad, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.45 percent of the residents in 17355 has some form of health insurance. 36.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.84 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 17355 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17355. An estimate of 43 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 62 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,421 health care providers accessible to residents in 17355, Railroad, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Railroad, PA (ZIP Code 17355)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Railroad, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding ZIP code (17355) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement within this specific community.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. Assessing primary care availability in Railroad, PA, reveals a complex picture. While the town itself may be small, the surrounding ZIP code encompasses a wider geographical area, impacting access. The presence of primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants is crucial. A low concentration of these providers can translate into longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for care, and potentially, delayed diagnoses and treatments. The availability of after-hours care and urgent care facilities also plays a significant role in this assessment.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. This ratio provides a quantitative measure of the availability of medical professionals. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can indicate a shortage of providers, potentially leading to overburdened doctors and reduced patient access. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a more favorable environment for accessing primary care. Data from state and national health organizations is necessary to establish this ratio accurately for ZIP code 17355. This data must be compared against regional and national averages to understand the relative strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

Identifying standout medical practices within the area is essential. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, the adoption of technology, and the overall quality of care. Practices with a strong reputation for patient-centered care, preventative medicine, and chronic disease management contribute positively to the overall health score. Reviews from patients, accreditations from professional organizations, and the presence of specialized services (e.g., diabetes education, geriatric care) are all important factors in this evaluation.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers significant advantages, including increased access to care, reduced travel burdens, and improved management of chronic conditions. The availability of telehealth services within the practices serving ZIP code 17355 is a significant indicator of the overall health score. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and the use of electronic health records. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient convenience.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a critical factor. Access to these services can significantly impact the overall health score. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and partnerships with local organizations that offer mental health services are all important considerations. The ability to connect patients with mental health resources quickly and efficiently is a key indicator of a healthy community.

The integration of these factors provides a holistic view of the health landscape in Railroad, PA. The overall health score will be influenced by the balance of strengths and weaknesses across each of these categories. A high score indicates a community with good access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, reputable medical practices, a strong adoption of telemedicine, and readily available mental health resources. A lower score would indicate areas needing improvement, such as a shortage of primary care physicians, limited access to mental health services, or a lack of telemedicine options.

For a detailed and visually intuitive understanding of the health landscape, including the location of medical facilities, the distribution of healthcare providers, and the availability of various services, consider exploring the power of spatial data visualization. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive way to analyze the health resources in Railroad, PA, and its surrounding areas. These maps can reveal patterns, identify gaps in service, and support data-driven decision-making to improve healthcare access and outcomes.

Analyzing the health landscape requires a deep dive into various data points. The overall health score is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare environment. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that the community has the resources it needs to thrive. By considering all of these factors, we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the health of Railroad, PA, and its surrounding communities.