17762, Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17762, Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.75 percent of the residents in 17762 has some form of health insurance. 29.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 90.81 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 17762 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 71 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17762. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 121 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 929 health care providers accessible to residents in 17762, Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Picture Rocks, PA (ZIP Code 17762)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within the Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17762) area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. We will synthesize these factors to provide an ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of healthcare access within this specific geographic region. This analysis will focus on the practicalities of finding and utilizing healthcare services, rather than broad epidemiological data.

The core of any health assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians. In Picture Rocks, a rural community, the density of primary care providers is a critical factor. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a quantifiable measure of access. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access and shorter wait times for appointments. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment. The precise physician-to-patient ratio for 17762 requires up-to-date data, but the rural nature suggests a potential for a higher ratio compared to more urbanized areas. This impacts the overall score.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality and reputation of existing practices are crucial. Identifying ‘standout practices’ requires considering factors like patient reviews, accreditations, and the range of services offered. Practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments, and a comprehensive suite of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized programs, contribute positively to the overall health score. These practices often serve as vital hubs within the community, improving access. This evaluation must also consider the ability to see a doctor quickly.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to access healthcare remotely, via video consultations or phone calls, can significantly improve access, especially in rural areas where travel distances can be a barrier. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater convenience, reduce travel time, and provide care to patients who might otherwise struggle to attend in-person appointments. The extent of telemedicine integration, including the types of services offered and the ease of use of the platforms, impacts the overall score.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing a wide range of conditions. The availability of these resources within the 17762 area, including the presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and the integration of mental health services within primary care practices, significantly impacts the overall health score. Shortages in mental health resources can severely limit the ability of residents to receive the care they need.

The overall health score for Picture Rocks, PA (17762) is therefore a composite metric. It is not a simple numerical value but a holistic assessment reflecting the interplay of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of existing practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources each contribute to the final score. A higher score indicates better access to care, a wider range of services, and a more robust healthcare infrastructure. A lower score indicates potential challenges in accessing care, highlighting the need for improvements in specific areas.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies could be considered. Recruiting additional primary care physicians, particularly those willing to practice in rural settings, would directly address the physician-to-patient ratio. Supporting and expanding existing practices, including providing resources for technological upgrades and staff training, can improve the quality of care. Promoting telemedicine adoption through education and financial incentives can enhance access, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges. Increasing the availability of mental health resources, including integrating mental health services within primary care practices, is essential for a holistic approach to health.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ for Picture Rocks, PA (17762) is not static. It is a dynamic measure that can change over time as the healthcare landscape evolves. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that residents have access to the healthcare they need. The score should be seen as a starting point for a more in-depth analysis.

The specific health score will depend on the detailed data available. However, the general principle is clear: the more accessible, comprehensive, and integrated the healthcare system is, the higher the score. The analysis must consider the practical realities of accessing care, including wait times, travel distances, and the availability of specialized services.

The analysis of Picture Rocks, PA (17762) reveals that the rural nature of the area presents both challenges and opportunities. While the physician-to-patient ratio might be a concern, the community has the opportunity to leverage technology and innovative approaches to improve healthcare access. The success of these efforts will determine the ultimate ‘Overall Health Score’ and the well-being of the residents. The overall score will be affected by the level of investment in the area.

Further, it is important to note that this analysis is limited by the availability of data. A comprehensive assessment would require access to detailed information on physician demographics, practice locations, patient demographics, and the utilization of healthcare services. The accuracy of the ‘Overall Health Score’ is directly proportional to the quality and completeness of the data used in its calculation. The score is an estimate.

In conclusion, understanding the healthcare landscape in Picture Rocks, PA (17762) is crucial for improving the health and well-being of its residents. The ‘Overall Health Score’ provides a valuable framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system and for identifying areas for improvement. By focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can work towards creating a healthier community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Picture Rocks, PA (17762), including the location of physicians, practices, and other healthcare resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provides detailed, interactive visualizations that can help you better understand the distribution of healthcare services in your area.