17901, Pottsville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17901, Pottsville, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.36 percent of the residents in 17901 has some form of health insurance. 42.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.07 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 17901 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,778 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17901. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,034 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,277 health care providers accessible to residents in 17901, Pottsville, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Pottsville, PA (ZIP Code 17901)

Pottsville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Evaluating the overall health score for the area, focusing on doctors within the 17901 ZIP code and the availability of primary care, requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview, aiming to paint a clear picture of the healthcare ecosystem in Pottsville.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of healthcare accessibility. While precise, real-time figures are dynamic and require constant updates, publicly available data and reports from organizations like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) offer valuable insights. Generally, Pottsville, and Schuylkill County as a whole, often faces challenges in this area. Rural areas, like this one, frequently experience a shortage of primary care physicians compared to urban centers. This shortage can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances for patients, and potentially, delayed or inadequate healthcare.

Examining the practices within the 17901 ZIP code reveals a mix of established and newer facilities. Identifying "standout practices" necessitates evaluating several factors. These include patient reviews, the breadth of services offered, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the overall quality of care. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients, offer a wide range of services, and embrace technological advancements like electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, are likely to be considered standout performers. Furthermore, the presence of specialists within the practice or access to specialist referrals is a key indicator of comprehensive care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within Pottsville's primary care practices is a critical factor in assessing the overall health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online appointment scheduling, are better positioned to serve a wider patient base. Telemedicine can reduce travel burdens, improve convenience, and facilitate timely access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote locations.

Mental health resources are an indispensable component of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health services in Pottsville significantly impact the community's health score. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Assessing the availability of these professionals, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the acceptance of insurance coverage are all essential considerations. Moreover, the presence of community-based mental health programs, support groups, and crisis intervention services further enhances the mental health landscape.

Evaluating the quality of care requires a nuanced approach. It is not enough to simply count the number of doctors or clinics. It is essential to consider factors like patient satisfaction, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the outcomes of care. This can be assessed through patient surveys, quality reports from healthcare providers, and data on chronic disease management. The implementation of patient-centered care models, where the patient's needs and preferences are central to the care process, is also a key indicator of quality.

The integration of technology plays a crucial role in modern healthcare. Beyond telemedicine, the adoption of EHRs, patient portals, and other digital tools can streamline administrative processes, improve communication between providers and patients, and enhance the overall efficiency of the healthcare system. Practices that have successfully integrated these technologies are better equipped to provide coordinated, comprehensive, and patient-centered care.

Another factor to consider is the presence of preventative care initiatives. These include programs focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, early detection of diseases, and vaccination campaigns. Practices that actively engage in preventative care are better positioned to improve the overall health of the community and reduce the burden of chronic diseases. Access to these programs is important for the health score.

The affordability of healthcare is another critical aspect. This includes the cost of insurance, the cost of medical services, and the availability of financial assistance programs. High healthcare costs can be a barrier to accessing care, particularly for low-income individuals and families. The presence of programs that help patients afford care, such as sliding-scale fees or financial counseling, can improve the overall health score.

The demographics of the population also influence the health score. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation can impact health outcomes. Understanding the specific needs of the population in Pottsville is essential for tailoring healthcare services and interventions to meet those needs. Addressing health disparities is a key component of improving the overall health of the community.

Finally, the collaboration and coordination among healthcare providers are essential. This includes the sharing of information, the coordination of care, and the development of referral networks. A well-coordinated healthcare system can improve the efficiency of care, reduce medical errors, and enhance the patient experience. The presence of integrated care models, where different healthcare providers work together to provide comprehensive care, is a positive indicator.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Pottsville, PA (ZIP Code 17901) is complex. The area faces challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios, particularly in primary care. However, the presence of dedicated practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall health score. Continuous efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and address health disparities are crucial for improving the health and well-being of the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Pottsville and explore the locations of doctors, clinics, and other healthcare resources, we encourage you to use the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a valuable tool for understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare services and identifying areas where access may be limited.