17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.89 percent of the residents in 17737 has some form of health insurance. 40.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.90 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 17737 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,583 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17737. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,293 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,653 health care providers accessible to residents in 17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Hughesville, PA (ZIP Code 17737)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Hughesville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17737) requires a multifaceted approach, examining various factors that influence the well-being of its residents. This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians, 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 an informed perspective on the health of this community.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Hughesville, the number of primary care doctors directly impacts residents' ability to access preventative care, manage chronic conditions, and address acute illnesses. Evaluating this availability involves considering the number of practicing physicians within the ZIP code, the types of practices they represent (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine), and the scope of services offered. This data is essential to understanding the community's access to essential healthcare services.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric for evaluating healthcare access. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential difficulties in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a more accessible healthcare system. Analyzing this ratio within 17737, and comparing it to state and national averages, provides a crucial benchmark for understanding the overall health score of the community.

Identifying standout medical practices within Hughesville provides insight into the quality of care available. This involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, the use of technology, and the practice's commitment to patient-centered care. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer specialized services, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education contribute significantly to the community's overall health. Assessing these practices involves gathering data from multiple sources, including patient feedback, professional organizations, and healthcare rating websites.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially in rural communities. Telemedicine can improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, offering convenient appointment options, and expanding the reach of specialists. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption in Hughesville involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely (e.g., consultations, follow-up care), and the technological infrastructure supporting telemedicine. The adoption rate reflects the community's willingness to embrace technology to improve healthcare access.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health and well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Hughesville involves examining the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counseling services. It also includes evaluating the availability of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and educational programs. Furthermore, understanding the integration of mental health services within primary care practices is crucial. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources are critical indicators of the community's ability to address the mental health needs of its residents.

Hughesville's healthcare landscape is a complex interplay of factors. The evaluation must consider the presence of any hospitals or urgent care facilities within or near the ZIP code. These facilities provide essential services for acute medical needs and can significantly impact the overall health score. Their proximity, staffing levels, and range of services contribute to the community's ability to respond to medical emergencies and provide comprehensive care.

Analyzing the insurance landscape in Hughesville is also necessary. The percentage of residents with health insurance, the types of insurance plans available, and the acceptance of insurance by local providers all influence healthcare access. Uninsured or underinsured individuals may face significant barriers to accessing care, impacting their health outcomes and the community's overall health score. This analysis requires data on insurance coverage rates and the acceptance of various insurance plans by local healthcare providers.

The presence of community health initiatives and programs also contributes to the overall health score. These initiatives can include wellness programs, health education campaigns, and support groups for specific health conditions. Evaluating the effectiveness and reach of these programs provides insight into the community's commitment to promoting health and well-being. The presence of these initiatives demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing health needs and improving the quality of life for residents.

Furthermore, the demographics of Hughesville play a significant role in the overall health score. Factors such as age distribution, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence healthcare needs and access. Analyzing these demographics provides context for understanding the specific health challenges facing the community. Understanding the demographics enables the assessment to be more nuanced.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Hughesville (ZIP Code 17737) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and other related factors. This analysis highlights the importance of considering the interplay of these elements to gain a complete understanding of the health landscape in this community. The health of a community is a dynamic entity, and the ongoing monitoring of these factors is essential for ensuring the well-being of its residents.

If you are interested in visualizing the healthcare landscape of Hughesville, and other communities, and exploring the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps.