17527, Gap, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17527, Gap, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 64.61 percent of the residents in 17527 has some form of health insurance. 21.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.16 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 17527 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,634 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17527. An estimate of 15 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 826 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,247 health care providers accessible to residents in 17527, Gap, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Gap, PA (ZIP Code 17527)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Gap, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17527) requires a multifaceted approach, moving beyond simple metrics to assess the true accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of healthcare services available to its residents. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" assessment.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Gap, the ratio is likely influenced by its rural location and proximity to larger urban centers. While precise, real-time data is often proprietary, publicly available sources such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide estimates. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and access to specialized care. This can lead to longer wait times, delayed diagnoses, and ultimately, a poorer overall health score. The presence of primary care physicians is crucial, as they often act as the first point of contact and gatekeepers to the healthcare system.

Standout practices within Gap, PA, contribute significantly to the overall health score. Identifying these practices requires examining factors like patient reviews, accreditations, and the range of services offered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing advanced technologies, and offering extended hours often receive higher ratings. Focus should be on the practices' ability to manage chronic diseases, provide preventative care, and offer a welcoming environment for patients. These practices, which excel in patient satisfaction and positive health outcomes, become beacons of quality within the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the overall health score. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, through video consultations, remote monitoring, and online portals, can significantly improve accessibility, particularly for residents in rural areas like Gap. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, minimize wait times, and improve patient convenience. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflows, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and secure communication channels, are likely to have a positive impact on the overall health score. The ease of access to these technologies is a crucial indicator of the community's health.

Mental health resources are a vital, often overlooked, aspect of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing the growing needs of the population. The presence of these resources, coupled with the availability of support groups and community mental health programs, directly impacts the overall health score. A community with robust mental health resources demonstrates a commitment to holistic well-being, addressing both physical and psychological health needs. The lack of mental health resources negatively affects the overall health score.

The overall health score for Gap, PA (ZIP code 17527) is a complex calculation, weighing the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of standout practices, the level of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the final assessment. The score will reflect the community's ability to provide accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive healthcare services. The score is not a static number; it evolves based on changes within the healthcare landscape.

Improving the overall health score requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government. This includes recruiting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals, promoting telemedicine adoption, expanding mental health services, and fostering a culture of preventative care. Collaboration and investment in healthcare infrastructure are crucial for elevating the health score. The goal is to create a healthcare system that is not only accessible but also provides the best possible care for all residents of Gap.

The analysis highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the healthcare landscape in Gap. Tracking key metrics, such as physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and patient satisfaction scores, allows for informed decision-making and targeted interventions. Regular assessments help to identify areas of strength and weakness, enabling healthcare providers and community stakeholders to prioritize their efforts and improve the overall health score.

The health score also reflects the socioeconomic factors present within the community. The availability of health insurance, the level of health literacy, and the prevalence of chronic diseases all play a role in the overall health of the community. Addressing these social determinants of health is critical for improving health outcomes and raising the overall health score. The health score is not simply a measure of healthcare access; it is a reflection of the overall well-being of the community.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Gap, PA (ZIP code 17527) is a dynamic measure of healthcare accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and exploring mental health resources, we gain a more complete understanding of the health landscape. The score serves as a valuable tool for healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government, enabling them to prioritize their efforts and improve the overall health of the community.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in Gap, PA, and gain a visual understanding of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and population demographics, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and informative way to visualize the data discussed in this analysis.