17872, Shamokin, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17872, Shamokin, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.41 percent of the residents in 17872 has some form of health insurance. 55.47 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.39 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 17872 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,135 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 38 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17872. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,549 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,002 health care providers accessible to residents in 17872, Shamokin, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Shamokin, PA (ZIP Code 17872)

Analyzing the overall health score for Shamokin, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17872) requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond just the number of doctors. We must delve into physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care availability, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis will provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape within this community.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access to care. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing data from multiple sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau. However, we can anticipate that Shamokin, being a rural community, likely faces challenges in this area. Rural areas often struggle to attract and retain physicians due to factors like lower salaries, fewer opportunities for specialization, and the lifestyle preferences of medical professionals. This scarcity necessitates a focus on strategies to improve the existing physician-to-patient ratio.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of a healthy community. It provides the first point of contact for healthcare needs, focusing on preventative care, early diagnosis, and management of chronic conditions. In Shamokin, assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians (PCPs), including family doctors, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians, practicing within the area. It also means considering the accessibility of these physicians, including factors such as office hours, appointment availability, and insurance acceptance. A robust primary care system is essential for maintaining the overall health of the community.

Identifying standout practices within the community is crucial. These practices often serve as models for best practices and can offer insights into successful healthcare delivery. Evaluating these practices involves looking at factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the implementation of innovative technologies, and the provision of comprehensive services. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, utilize electronic health records effectively, and offer a range of services, including preventative screenings and chronic disease management, are particularly noteworthy. These practices could be considered as beacons of health within the community.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care by overcoming geographical barriers. It allows patients to consult with physicians via video conferencing, receive remote monitoring of their health, and access specialist care that may not be readily available locally. The extent of telemedicine adoption in Shamokin, including the types of services offered, the platforms used, and the patient population served, is a key indicator of the community's ability to leverage technology to improve healthcare access.

Mental health resources are a vital component of overall health. Mental health conditions are prevalent and can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health resources in Shamokin involves evaluating the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area, as well as the availability of mental health clinics and support groups. It also includes considering the accessibility of these resources, including factors such as insurance acceptance, appointment availability, and the availability of culturally competent care. A robust mental health infrastructure is essential for addressing the mental health needs of the community.

The interplay of these factors shapes the overall health score for Shamokin. A community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, strong primary care availability, widespread telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health resources will likely have a higher overall health score. Conversely, a community facing challenges in these areas will likely have a lower score. The specific data points for each of these factors will ultimately determine the final score and provide a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape.

Further investigation into the specific practices and healthcare providers in Shamokin is required to paint a complete picture. Analyzing patient reviews, insurance coverage, and the adoption of innovative technologies is important. This can include looking at the use of electronic health records, patient portals, and telehealth platforms. Understanding the specific needs of the community, including the prevalence of chronic diseases and the demographics of the population, is also essential.

The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and other specialties, is another important factor. The proximity to larger medical centers and hospitals is also relevant, as it can impact the availability of specialized care and emergency services. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers can also play a crucial role in ensuring access to care for underserved populations.

The assessment of the overall health score should not be a static exercise. It should be a dynamic process that is continuously updated and refined as new data becomes available and the healthcare landscape evolves. Regularly monitoring key indicators, such as physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, and the adoption of telemedicine, is essential for tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Shamokin, PA (ZIP code 17872) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While a comprehensive analysis requires detailed data collection and analysis, the factors discussed above provide a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape within this community. The availability of physicians, the strength of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources are all critical components.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Shamokin and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, access to care, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable visual tool for understanding the healthcare resources available in Shamokin and other areas.