17824, Elysburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17824, Elysburg, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.49 percent of the residents in 17824 has some form of health insurance. 28.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.96 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 17824 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 665 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17824. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 922 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,870 health care providers accessible to residents in 17824, Elysburg, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Elysburg, PA (ZIP Code 17824)

This analysis delves into the overall health landscape of Elysburg, Pennsylvania, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 17824 ZIP code. We will assess various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive evaluation aims to provide a clear understanding of the healthcare ecosystem in Elysburg and its potential strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. A crucial metric for this is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures fluctuate, publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services and state medical boards can offer insights. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more robust healthcare infrastructure, allowing for more personalized care and easier access to medical attention. Researching the specific physician-to-patient ratio for the 17824 ZIP code is the first step in understanding the overall health score. This data point, however, is just a starting point, and should be considered in tandem with other factors.

Identifying standout practices is essential for assessing the quality of care available. These practices are often characterized by factors such as board-certified physicians, a wide range of services offered, positive patient reviews, and participation in quality improvement initiatives. Researching local practices, analyzing their online presence (websites, social media), and checking patient testimonials on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals can provide valuable insights. The presence of well-regarded practices can significantly elevate the overall health score, suggesting a commitment to quality care within the community. Examining if these practices accept a variety of insurance plans and offer evening or weekend hours also adds to the evaluation.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated locations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services within the 17824 ZIP code involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual appointments, online patient portals, and remote monitoring capabilities. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery, potentially enhancing the overall health score by increasing accessibility and convenience. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform and the availability of technical support are also important considerations.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is a crucial factor in the health score. Researching the number of mental health professionals practicing within the 17824 ZIP code, and the types of services they offer, is vital. This includes assessing the availability of individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management. Furthermore, examining the presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and partnerships with local organizations can provide a more complete picture of the mental health landscape. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as on-site therapists, can also significantly enhance the overall health score.

Beyond these core elements, other factors can influence the overall health score. The presence of specialized care providers, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and dermatologists, within a reasonable distance can improve the score. The availability of urgent care centers and emergency services also contributes to the overall health and safety of the community. Additionally, the health of the community is impacted by the availability of pharmacies, and access to healthy food options.

The analysis of the 17824 ZIP code health landscape requires gathering and synthesizing data from various sources. This can include public health records, physician directories, insurance provider networks, and patient reviews. It is important to note that this analysis is a snapshot in time, and the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are essential to maintain an accurate assessment of the overall health score.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the primary care environment in Elysburg, Pennsylvania. By evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining mental health resources, we can gain valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system. This information can be used by residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and promote the overall health and well-being of the community.

While this analysis provides a valuable overview, visualizing the data geographically can further enhance the understanding of healthcare access and availability. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing for a more intuitive and insightful analysis. They enable users to map physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, revealing patterns and trends that might be missed through traditional methods.

To gain a deeper, more visually compelling understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, and to see how these factors interact spatially, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Discover the true potential of your data.