17763, Ralston, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17763, Ralston, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.49 percent of the residents in 17763 has some form of health insurance. 47.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.75 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 17763 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 28 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17763. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 555 health care providers accessible to residents in 17763, Ralston, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17763 and Primary Care Availability in Ralston

Analyzing the overall health landscape for residents of ZIP code 17763, encompassing the area around Ralston, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, examine physician-to-patient ratios, assess the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate 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 in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system rests upon the accessibility of primary care physicians. Ralston, a relatively small community, may face challenges in this regard. The availability of primary care is not simply about the number of doctors; it's about the ease of access. Factors like appointment wait times, acceptance of various insurance plans, and the physical proximity of practices all contribute to the overall accessibility score. A limited number of primary care physicians, coupled with a potentially aging population, could place a significant strain on the existing resources. It is crucial to determine if the current physician base can adequately serve the healthcare needs of the community.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. This ratio represents the number of patients served by each physician. A high ratio suggests a potential for longer wait times, less personalized care, and an increased burden on existing healthcare providers. Conversely, a low ratio indicates a greater availability of physicians, potentially leading to improved access and more attentive care. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio within 17763 provides a valuable benchmark for assessing the overall health of the community. This data, when compared to state and national averages, can highlight areas of strength or areas needing improvement.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. These practices often serve as models for best practices and can contribute significantly to the overall health score. Factors to consider include the adoption of innovative technologies, patient satisfaction scores, and the provision of comprehensive care services. Practices that prioritize preventative care, offer extended hours, and actively engage with the community are likely to contribute positively to the health and well-being of residents. Researching the reputation and service quality of existing practices is a vital part of this assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial component of the overall health score. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals living in rural or underserved areas. The availability of telemedicine services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can increase the reach of healthcare providers and reduce the need for in-person visits. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption within 17763 reveals the extent to which residents can access healthcare services conveniently and efficiently.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical aspect of overall health. Mental health is often overlooked, but its impact on physical health and overall well-being is undeniable. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial. It is equally important to evaluate the accessibility of these resources. Are there long wait times for appointments? Are services affordable and covered by insurance? Are there support groups or community-based mental health programs available? A lack of accessible mental health resources can significantly detract from the overall health score.

The assessment of these factors provides a foundation for creating an "Overall Health Score" for the area. The score should be based on a weighted average of the factors discussed above. Primary care availability and physician-to-patient ratios should carry significant weight, as they directly impact access to care. Telemedicine adoption and the availability of mental health resources should also be weighted heavily. The final score should reflect the overall health of the community, providing a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure.

The overall health score should not be considered a static measure. It is essential to regularly monitor and update the score to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Population growth, changes in physician availability, and the adoption of new technologies can all impact the score. Regular monitoring allows for proactive adjustments and ensures that the healthcare needs of the community are being met.

In conclusion, the overall health score for ZIP code 17763, including Ralston, will be determined by a complex interplay of factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources will all contribute to the final score. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this area, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points. This visual approach allows for a deeper understanding of the healthcare infrastructure and can help identify potential gaps in care. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the health data of the community.