17728, Cogan Station, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17728, Cogan Station, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.92 percent of the residents in 17728 has some form of health insurance. 40.09 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.65 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 17728 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 769 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17728. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,096 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,932 health care providers accessible to residents in 17728, Cogan Station, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17728 and Primary Care Availability in Cogan Station

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 17728, encompassing the area of Cogan Station, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability and quality of primary care physicians, examining factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure within this specific geographical area.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system rests upon the availability of primary care physicians. In Cogan Station, a critical factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric provides a basic understanding of the potential workload each doctor faces and, by extension, the ease with which patients can access appointments and receive timely care. While precise, real-time data on this ratio is dynamic and requires continuous monitoring, publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services can provide estimates. A low ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, could suggest potential challenges in appointment availability and increased wait times, impacting the overall health score negatively. Conversely, a more favorable ratio suggests better access to care, contributing positively to the score.

Beyond simple ratios, the quality of care provided by the physicians is paramount. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. This involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management), and the utilization of advanced technologies. Practices that consistently demonstrate high patient satisfaction, a commitment to preventative medicine, and the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technologies would contribute favorably to the overall health score. These practices often serve as beacons of excellence, setting a higher standard for healthcare delivery within the community.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly significant, particularly in rural areas like Cogan Station. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to healthcare services remotely. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, offering virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring, would receive a higher score in this analysis. This demonstrates a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counseling services, directly impacts the well-being of the community. An assessment must consider the number of mental health providers within the ZIP code, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, appointment availability). A community with limited mental health resources would receive a lower score, reflecting the potential for unmet needs and a negative impact on overall health outcomes. Conversely, a robust network of mental health providers would significantly improve the score.

Specific practices in the area, such as those affiliated with larger healthcare systems or independent clinics, would be examined. Analyzing the services they offer, their patient reviews, and their integration of technology provides valuable insights. For example, a practice offering extended hours, multilingual services, or specialized programs for chronic disease management would likely receive a higher score than one with limited resources. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, within the area or readily accessible through referral networks, also contributes to the overall health score, reflecting the comprehensiveness of care available.

The assessment also considers the demographic makeup of the population in Cogan Station. Factors such as age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence healthcare needs. Understanding the specific needs of the community allows for a more nuanced evaluation of the healthcare infrastructure. For example, a community with a large elderly population may require more resources dedicated to geriatric care and chronic disease management.

Furthermore, the analysis considers the integration of healthcare services with other community resources. This includes partnerships with local pharmacies, community health centers, and social service organizations. Coordinated care, where healthcare providers work collaboratively with other organizations to address the holistic needs of patients, contributes positively to the overall health score. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive support, addressing not only their medical needs but also their social and economic determinants of health.

Evaluating the accessibility of healthcare is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of transportation options to medical appointments, the affordability of healthcare services, and the ease with which patients can navigate the healthcare system. Practices that offer convenient appointment scheduling, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and provide clear and concise communication to patients would contribute favorably to the overall health score.

The final ‘Overall Health Score’ for doctors in ZIP Code 17728 and primary care availability in Cogan Station is a composite measure, reflecting all these factors. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that can change over time as healthcare infrastructure evolves. The score provides a valuable snapshot of the health landscape, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. This assessment empowers residents and policymakers to make informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Cogan Station and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to services, and demographic data, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed and spatially-aware understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.