17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.98 percent of the residents in 17740 has some form of health insurance. 35.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.54 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 17740 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,994 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17740. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,230 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,814 health care providers accessible to residents in 17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Jersey Shore, PA (ZIP Code 17740)

Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17740), presents a unique healthcare landscape, shaped by its rural setting and the needs of its community. Evaluating the overall health score requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician availability, the quality of care, access to specialized services, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, focusing on key aspects of the local healthcare ecosystem.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

One of the primary indicators of a community's health is the availability of primary care physicians. In Jersey Shore, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals, leading to a potential shortage of primary care providers. This can result in longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased reliance on emergency room services for non-emergency conditions. Assessing the current ratio and comparing it to state and national averages is crucial for understanding the level of access residents have to primary care.

The availability of primary care extends beyond the raw number of physicians. It encompasses the types of practices available (e.g., family medicine, internal medicine), the acceptance of new patients, and the insurance plans accepted. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and are open to new patients are more likely to serve a larger segment of the population. Furthermore, the presence of walk-in clinics or urgent care facilities can supplement primary care access, particularly for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices requires an evaluation of various factors, including patient reviews, physician qualifications, and the range of services offered. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients, demonstrate a commitment to quality care, and offer a comprehensive suite of services are likely to be highly regarded within the community. This includes factors like the availability of on-site diagnostic services, the use of electronic health records, and the implementation of patient-centered care models.

Furthermore, assessing the quality of care involves examining metrics such as patient outcomes, adherence to clinical guidelines, and the prevention of hospital readmissions. Practices that prioritize these aspects are more likely to provide high-quality care and contribute to the overall health of the community. Analyzing data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide insights into the performance of local practices.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Technological Integration:**

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare may be limited by geographical constraints. The availability of telehealth services, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care and enhance patient convenience. Examining the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the platforms used, is crucial for understanding the technological integration within the healthcare system.

Beyond telemedicine, the use of other technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can also contribute to improved care coordination and patient engagement. EHRs enable physicians to access patient information more efficiently, while patient portals allow patients to communicate with their providers, schedule appointments, and access their medical records online. Practices that have successfully integrated these technologies are likely to be better equipped to provide efficient and patient-centered care.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Mental health is an essential component of overall well-being, and access to mental health services is a critical factor in assessing the health of a community. Jersey Shore's health score must evaluate the availability of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. This includes assessing the number of providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the acceptance of insurance plans.

Furthermore, the presence of community-based mental health resources, such as support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health education programs, can significantly enhance the availability of mental health support. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is also crucial for ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and integrated care. Identifying and evaluating these resources is essential for understanding the community's capacity to address mental health needs.

**Specific Considerations for Jersey Shore:**

Jersey Shore's location and demographics present unique challenges and opportunities. The community's rural setting may limit access to specialized medical services, such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology. Therefore, assessing the availability of these services and the referral pathways to specialists outside of the immediate area is important.

Furthermore, the demographic composition of Jersey Shore, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, should be considered. Understanding the specific health needs of the population can help identify areas where healthcare resources are most needed. This includes addressing chronic diseases, promoting preventative care, and providing support for vulnerable populations.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

Assessing the overall health score for Jersey Shore, PA (17740) requires a comprehensive analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine and other technologies, and the availability of mental health resources. The community's rural setting and demographic characteristics present unique challenges and opportunities that must be considered.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jersey Shore and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to explore the mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and the demographics of the community.