17829, Hartleton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17829, Hartleton, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.58 percent of the residents in 17829 has some form of health insurance. 21.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.73 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 17829 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 59 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17829. An estimate of 0 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 2,295 health care providers accessible to residents in 17829, Hartleton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in 17829 & Primary Care Availability in Hartleton

This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment for the availability and quality of primary care services in Hartleton, Pennsylvania, specifically considering the physicians practicing within ZIP code 17829. This evaluation considers several critical factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this area, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric directly reflects the accessibility of primary care. In Hartleton, a rural community, the ratio is likely to be a significant indicator of overall health access. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within 17829 and comparing it to the estimated population of Hartleton and surrounding areas is crucial. A higher ratio, indicating fewer patients per physician, generally suggests better access. Conversely, a lower ratio can indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and reduced preventative care opportunities. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, coupled with physician directories, are essential for this calculation. The analysis must also consider the age distribution of the population, as older populations often require more frequent medical attention. The presence of specialists within the ZIP code, although not primary care, can indirectly influence the overall health score by potentially alleviating the burden on PCPs by handling referrals.

Identifying standout medical practices within 17829 is another critical aspect of the assessment. This involves evaluating the quality of care offered, patient satisfaction, and the adoption of modern medical practices. Factors to consider include accreditation status (e.g., Joint Commission), patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, and the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education will likely score higher. The availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-ray or laboratory testing, can also improve the patient experience and reduce the need for external referrals. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals can streamline communication and improve care coordination.

The adoption of telemedicine is a rapidly evolving aspect of healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care by reducing the need for travel, especially for routine follow-up appointments or consultations. The analysis must determine the extent to which physicians in 17829 offer telemedicine services. This includes the availability of virtual visits, remote monitoring of vital signs, and the use of secure communication platforms for patient-physician interaction. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to score higher, as they demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The availability of telehealth services for mental health is particularly important, as access to mental healthcare can be a significant challenge in rural areas.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The assessment must evaluate the availability of mental health services within 17829 and the surrounding areas. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. The analysis should consider the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, as integrated care can improve access and reduce stigma. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services also contributes to the overall health score. The analysis should also assess the availability of substance abuse treatment programs, as addiction is a significant public health concern.

The overall health score will be a composite of these factors. Each factor will be weighted based on its relative importance in determining the accessibility and quality of primary care. For instance, the physician-to-patient ratio might be given a higher weight due to its direct impact on access. The presence of standout practices and telemedicine adoption will also be given significant weight, as they indicate the quality and convenience of care. The availability of mental health resources will be weighted heavily, reflecting the importance of mental well-being. The final score will be presented as a relative ranking, comparing the healthcare landscape in 17829 to other similar rural areas. This ranking will provide a clear and concise assessment of the overall health of the community.

The analysis must also acknowledge potential limitations. Data availability may be limited, particularly regarding patient satisfaction and specific practice metrics. The analysis will rely on publicly available information, and the accuracy of this information may vary. Furthermore, the analysis will not be able to account for all individual patient experiences. However, by considering a comprehensive set of factors and utilizing the best available data, the analysis will provide a valuable assessment of the healthcare landscape in 17829.

This assessment is a snapshot in time. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and practices emerging regularly. Regular updates to this analysis will be necessary to ensure its continued relevance and accuracy. The goal is to provide a useful resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, promoting informed decision-making and ultimately improving the health and well-being of the community.

Finally, to visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in 17829 and Hartleton, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice types, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape.