17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.16 percent of the residents in 17922 has some form of health insurance. 28.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.24 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 17922 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,331 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17922. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 935 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,744 health care providers accessible to residents in 17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Auburn, PA (ZIP Code 17922)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Auburn, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17922) requires a multi-faceted approach, examining the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the adoption of innovative healthcare delivery methods, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an “Overall Health Score,” acknowledging the limitations of publicly available data and focusing on key indicators relevant to residents’ well-being.

The foundation of any health assessment is the availability of primary care physicians. In Auburn, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining medical professionals. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau, coupled with information from healthcare directories, will be used to calculate an estimated physician-to-patient ratio for the 17922 ZIP code. This ratio will be a key component in determining the overall health score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, accessible through online platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall experience. Accreditation status, such as those granted by organizations like the Joint Commission, indicates adherence to rigorous standards of care. Furthermore, examining the range of services offered, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and specialized care, provides a comprehensive picture of a practice's capabilities. While direct comparisons are challenging without detailed practice-level data, the presence of well-regarded practices with comprehensive service offerings will positively influence the health score.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant shift in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health tools, can enhance access to care, reduce travel burdens, and improve patient convenience. Assessing telemedicine adoption in Auburn involves identifying practices offering telehealth services, the types of services provided (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), and the availability of technology support for patients. A higher level of telemedicine adoption, particularly for primary care and follow-up appointments, will contribute favorably to the overall health score, especially for residents with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services in Auburn is a crucial factor in this analysis. This involves identifying psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing within the ZIP code or in nearby communities accessible to residents. Examining the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), insurance acceptance, and wait times is critical. Furthermore, the presence of community-based mental health programs, support groups, and crisis intervention services will be assessed. A robust mental health infrastructure, with readily accessible and affordable services, will significantly boost the overall health score. The analysis will consider the availability of mental health resources, as this is often a significant challenge in rural settings.

The overall health score will be a composite of these factors. The physician-to-patient ratio will serve as a baseline indicator of access. The presence of high-quality practices, as indicated by patient reviews and accreditation, will contribute to the score. The degree of telemedicine adoption will be considered, as this is an important factor for improving healthcare access. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources will be a significant component of the score. Each factor will be weighted based on its relative importance to overall health outcomes, reflecting the complex and interconnected nature of healthcare.

The final score will be presented on a scale, with a clear explanation of the methodology and the limitations of the data. It is crucial to acknowledge that this analysis is based on publicly available information and may not fully capture the nuances of the local healthcare landscape. The score is intended to provide a general overview and should not be considered a definitive assessment of individual healthcare experiences.

The analysis will also consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on health outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited educational opportunities can all contribute to poorer health outcomes. While this analysis will not delve into these factors in detail, their potential influence on the overall health score will be acknowledged. Understanding these broader determinants of health is essential for a comprehensive assessment of the community's well-being.

The assessment will also consider the potential impact of the local hospital or health system. The presence of a well-equipped hospital or healthcare system in the surrounding area can significantly improve access to specialized care, emergency services, and other essential healthcare resources. The proximity of hospitals and the services they offer will be factored into the overall health score, as these are critical for providing comprehensive care.

The overall health score will be a dynamic measure. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new practices opening, telemedicine adoption increasing, and mental health resources expanding. This analysis will be updated periodically to reflect these changes, ensuring that the information remains relevant and useful to residents.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health of Auburn, PA (17922) is a complex undertaking. While the physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of mental health resources are critical, the quality of care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the impact of socioeconomic factors must also be considered. By combining these factors, a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” can be generated, providing valuable insights into the health landscape of Auburn.

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