17840, Locust Gap, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17840, Locust Gap, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17840 has some form of health insurance. 54.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.69 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 17840 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 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17840. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 127 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,473 health care providers accessible to residents in 17840, Locust Gap, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Locust Gap, PA (ZIP Code 17840)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the Locust Gap, PA area (ZIP Code 17840), focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. It considers physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape within this specific geographic region.

The foundation of any health assessment lies in understanding the accessibility of primary care physicians. Physician-to-patient ratios are critical. In Locust Gap, a rural area, these ratios are likely to be less favorable than in more densely populated regions. Determining the precise ratio requires up-to-date data, but generally, a higher ratio (more patients per physician) indicates potentially limited access to care. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses. The availability of primary care physicians serves as a crucial indicator of overall community health.

Identifying standout practices within the 17840 ZIP code is vital. This involves evaluating several factors. These include the quality of care, patient satisfaction ratings, the range of services offered, and the adoption of modern technologies. Practices that consistently receive high marks for patient experience, demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, and offer a broad spectrum of services are considered superior. Analyzing patient reviews, evaluating the qualifications of the medical staff, and examining the practice's accreditations are all essential components of this evaluation.

The adoption of telemedicine is another key factor in assessing healthcare quality. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Locust Gap. It can reduce travel time for patients, facilitate more frequent check-ins, and provide access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their operations, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to provide a more accessible and convenient healthcare experience. This is especially critical for individuals with chronic conditions or those with mobility challenges.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being, and their availability within the 17840 ZIP code is a crucial element of this health score analysis. Access to mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential. The analysis should consider the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer, and the availability of support groups and other community resources. Assessing whether these resources are readily accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive is also vital. A lack of adequate mental health services can have a detrimental impact on the physical health of the community.

The quality of care is often reflected in the preventative care services offered. Practices that emphasize preventative care, such as regular check-ups, screenings, and vaccinations, tend to promote better health outcomes. Evaluating the availability of these services within the 17840 ZIP code is an important part of this analysis. This includes assessing the frequency with which preventative care is provided, the types of screenings available, and the practice's commitment to educating patients about healthy lifestyles.

Another consideration is the presence of specialists. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the availability of specialists within a reasonable distance is essential for providing comprehensive care. Assessing the proximity to specialists in cardiology, dermatology, and other areas is relevant. If patients must travel long distances to see specialists, it can create barriers to care and negatively impact the overall health score.

The insurance landscape also plays a role. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices is a crucial factor in accessibility. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, are more likely to be accessible to a larger segment of the population. This analysis should also consider the availability of financial assistance programs for those who may struggle to afford healthcare.

Finally, the overall health score must consider the demographics of the community. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can influence the healthcare needs of the population. Understanding these demographics allows for a more nuanced assessment of the healthcare landscape and helps identify areas where improvements are needed. This also involves considering the cultural sensitivity of the healthcare providers and whether they are equipped to meet the needs of a diverse population.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Locust Gap (17840) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality and reputation of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the emphasis on preventative care, the proximity of specialists, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the demographics of the community. This analysis highlights the importance of access to quality primary care as a cornerstone of community health.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape of Locust Gap and surrounding areas in greater detail, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in the region.