17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.27 percent of the residents in 17768 has some form of health insurance. 45.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.40 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 17768 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 56 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17768. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 109 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 57 health care providers accessible to residents in 17768, Shunk, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17768 & Primary Care in Shunk

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 17768 and the specific context of primary care availability in the nearby community of Shunk requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to provide an ‘Overall Health Score’ by assessing various factors impacting access to care, quality of services, and the overall well-being of residents. The evaluation will consider physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources.

ZIP Code 17768, encompassing the town of Muncy, Pennsylvania, presents a unique demographic profile. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic factors, and prevalence of chronic conditions within this area is crucial for a comprehensive health assessment. The presence of a significant elderly population, for example, would necessitate a focus on geriatric care and accessibility. Similarly, if a high percentage of residents are employed in physically demanding occupations, the demand for occupational health services and preventative care would likely be elevated.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Assessing this ratio within 17768 requires data from sources like the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and state medical boards. This data must be compared against national and state averages to determine whether the area is underserved or adequately served.

Identifying standout practices within 17768 is critical. This involves researching the reputation of local clinics and hospitals, examining patient reviews, and evaluating the range of services offered. Practices excelling in patient satisfaction, utilizing innovative technologies, and demonstrating a commitment to community outreach should be highlighted. The presence of specialized care providers, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, or oncologists, would also significantly impact the overall health score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas like 17768 and the surrounding areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing access to specialists and mental health professionals who may not be readily available locally. The extent to which local healthcare providers offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, will be a key factor in the overall health score. The ease of use, accessibility, and patient satisfaction with these services must also be considered.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health. Mental health conditions are prevalent and often go untreated, leading to significant negative consequences. Assessing the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and mental health support groups within 17768 is essential. The presence of mental health services integrated into primary care practices is particularly beneficial, as it can facilitate early detection and intervention. The affordability and accessibility of these services, including insurance coverage and sliding-scale fees, must also be evaluated.

Shifting the focus to primary care availability in Shunk, a smaller community near 17768, requires a localized assessment. Shunk's size and rural nature likely mean a limited number of primary care physicians are available. The analysis should examine the proximity of the nearest primary care providers, the availability of transportation to access these providers, and the wait times for appointments. The potential for mobile health clinics or outreach programs to serve the community should also be considered.

The overall health score for 17768 and the surrounding area will be a composite measure, weighing the factors discussed above. A higher score would indicate better access to care, a greater range of services, and a stronger emphasis on preventative care and mental health. A lower score would suggest areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine adoption, and increasing access to mental health services. The score should be interpreted as a snapshot in time, subject to change as healthcare landscapes evolve.

The analysis should also consider the impact of social determinants of health. Factors such as housing quality, food security, access to transportation, and educational attainment can significantly influence health outcomes. Addressing these social determinants is crucial for improving the overall health of the community. Collaborations between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government are essential for addressing these complex challenges.

Data sources for this analysis would include public health agencies, medical directories, insurance providers, and patient satisfaction surveys. The accuracy and reliability of the data are paramount. The analysis should clearly state the sources used and any limitations of the data.

The assessment should also consider the impact of healthcare policies and regulations on access to care. Changes in insurance coverage, reimbursement rates, and scope of practice can all affect the availability and affordability of healthcare services. The analysis should identify any potential barriers to care and suggest policy recommendations to improve access and outcomes.

Finally, the analysis should incorporate a forward-looking perspective. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment modalities, and delivery models emerging. The analysis should consider the potential impact of these changes on the health of the community. For example, the growth of telehealth, the use of artificial intelligence in diagnosis and treatment, and the increasing emphasis on preventative care are all trends that could significantly impact the overall health score in the future.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17768 and the surrounding areas, including visual representations of physician distribution, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform provides powerful visualization tools that can help you analyze and understand the complex factors impacting health outcomes in your community.