17923, Branchdale, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17923, Branchdale, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.21 percent of the residents in 17923 has some form of health insurance. 59.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.80 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 17923 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17923. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 70 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,678 health care providers accessible to residents in 17923, Branchdale, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Branchdale, PA (ZIP Code 17923)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Branchdale, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17923) requires a multi-faceted approach. We will evaluate the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians, the presence of specialized services, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for residents, considering factors beyond just the number of doctors.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Branchdale, a detailed analysis of the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This involves determining the total number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. A higher ratio, meaning fewer patients per doctor, generally indicates better access. However, this metric alone doesn't paint the full picture. The age and health needs of the population, the presence of underserved communities, and the geographic distribution of physicians all influence the true accessibility of care. Further investigation into the specific specialties available (e.g., internal medicine, family practice) and their respective patient loads is necessary.

Primary care availability in Branchdale is a critical component of the overall health score. Beyond the raw numbers, we need to consider the operational hours of clinics, the acceptance of various insurance plans (including Medicare and Medicaid), and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments. Long wait times for appointments and limited insurance coverage can significantly hinder access to care, even if the physician-to-patient ratio appears favorable. Furthermore, the physical accessibility of clinics, including transportation options for patients, must be evaluated. Are clinics located in easily accessible areas, or do residents face significant travel barriers?

Identifying standout practices within Branchdale is vital. These practices often demonstrate exemplary patient care, innovative service models, and a commitment to community health. This involves assessing patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the implementation of preventative care programs. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer extended hours, and provide culturally competent care are likely to receive higher marks. Investigating the availability of ancillary services, such as on-site labs, pharmacies, and physical therapy, also contributes to a practice's overall rating.

Telemedicine adoption is a modern healthcare trend that significantly impacts access to care, especially in rural areas. The extent to which primary care practices in Branchdale have embraced telemedicine is a key factor in the overall health score. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and online patient portals. Practices that offer telemedicine options can improve access for patients with mobility limitations, those living in remote areas, and those seeking convenient follow-up appointments. Assessing the ease of use of telemedicine platforms, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care workflow are all important considerations.

Mental health resources are an increasingly critical component of overall health. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within Branchdale is essential. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Assessing the availability of these services, the acceptance of insurance, and the wait times for appointments are crucial factors. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a significant indicator of a comprehensive approach to patient well-being. The presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and mental health education programs within the community also contributes to the overall score.

The overall health score for Branchdale will also consider the presence of specialty care providers. While primary care is the foundation, access to specialists is crucial for managing chronic conditions and addressing complex health issues. The availability of specialists in areas such as cardiology, endocrinology, and gastroenterology is important. Analyzing the referral pathways between primary care physicians and specialists, as well as the wait times for specialist appointments, will provide a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape.

Another important aspect of the analysis is the health of the community. This includes factors such as air and water quality, access to healthy food options, and opportunities for physical activity. The presence of community health initiatives, such as wellness programs and health education campaigns, can also contribute to the overall health score.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Branchdale is not a static number but a dynamic assessment of the healthcare ecosystem. It reflects the availability, accessibility, and quality of care, as well as the community's commitment to promoting health and well-being. A thorough analysis requires a combination of quantitative data, qualitative assessments, and a deep understanding of the local context.

This analysis emphasizes the importance of data visualization and geographic analysis in understanding the healthcare landscape. To gain a deeper understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and health outcomes in Branchdale and the surrounding areas, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing complex health data, identifying areas of need, and informing healthcare planning decisions.