17724, Canton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17724, Canton, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.52 percent of the residents in 17724 has some form of health insurance. 42.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.82 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 17724 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,130 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17724. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,035 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 71 health care providers accessible to residents in 17724, Canton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Canton, PA (ZIP Code 17724)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 17724, encompassing Canton, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted 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. We aim to provide an informed assessment of the health infrastructure and its capacity to serve the local population.

The cornerstone of a healthy community is robust primary care. Assessing the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Canton is paramount. While specific, up-to-the-minute data on the exact number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code is difficult to obtain publicly, research must be conducted to understand the current state. We need to determine the number of practicing PCPs, including family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and general practitioners. This number must then be compared to the population of Canton to calculate a physician-to-patient ratio.

A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning a higher number of patients per physician, can indicate potential access challenges. Residents might face longer wait times for appointments, difficulty finding a PCP accepting new patients, and increased travel distances to reach a provider. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access to primary care services, contributing positively to overall health scores. Public health data, local hospital reports, and state medical board databases are essential resources for this initial assessment.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and reputation of medical practices within Canton significantly impact the overall health score. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, accreditations, and the range of services offered. Practices with a strong reputation for patient satisfaction, comprehensive care, and a commitment to preventative medicine contribute positively to the community's health. Conversely, practices with negative reviews, limited services, or a history of quality concerns would detract from the overall score.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly crucial, especially in rural areas like Canton. Telemedicine offers a convenient way for patients to access healthcare services, reducing the need for travel, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption involves determining which local practices offer telehealth options, the types of services available remotely, and the accessibility of these services to the community. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. Evaluating the availability of mental health services in Canton requires assessing the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. This includes understanding the number of mental health professionals practicing within the ZIP code, the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and their acceptance of various insurance plans. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships with local schools and organizations also contributes to a higher score. A scarcity of mental health resources, on the other hand, would significantly detract from the overall health score.

The geographical distribution of healthcare resources within Canton is another important factor. Are the primary care practices and mental health services evenly distributed throughout the community, or are there areas with limited access? This involves analyzing the locations of healthcare providers and comparing them to the population density of different areas within the ZIP code. Uneven distribution can create health disparities, where some residents face greater challenges in accessing care than others.

Furthermore, we must consider the availability of specialized healthcare services. While primary care is the foundation, access to specialists such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and other specialists is crucial for managing chronic conditions and addressing complex health needs. Determining the availability of these specialists within Canton, or the ease of access to specialists in nearby communities, is essential for a comprehensive health score assessment.

The overall health score for Canton, PA (17724) is a dynamic measure that reflects the interplay of all these factors. A high score indicates a community with good access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, reputable medical practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, ample mental health resources, and a well-distributed healthcare infrastructure. A low score, conversely, would indicate potential challenges in accessing care, limited resources, and a need for improvements in various areas.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the health landscape in Canton, PA (17724), and to visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome offers powerful tools for analyzing geographical data, visualizing health infrastructure, and identifying areas with potential access challenges.