17925, Brockton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17925, Brockton, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.06 percent of the residents in 17925 has some form of health insurance. 36.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.44 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 17925 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 87 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17925. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 52 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,832 health care providers accessible to residents in 17925, Brockton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Brockton, PA (ZIP Code 17925)

Brockton, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 17925 ZIP code, presents a complex tapestry of healthcare access and quality. Evaluating the overall health score requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond the simple presence of physicians. This analysis delves into the specifics of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources within the community. It offers a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Brockton, the accessibility of PCPs is a critical area for scrutiny. While the exact number of practicing PCPs within the 17925 ZIP code requires ongoing data collection, an initial assessment suggests potential challenges. Rural areas often face shortages, and Brockton, with its specific demographic and geographic characteristics, may experience similar difficulties. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This metric, calculated by dividing the population by the number of PCPs, provides a baseline understanding of potential access issues. A higher ratio indicates a greater demand on each physician, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Identifying standout practices is essential. This involves examining factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered (e.g., preventive care, chronic disease management), and the integration of technology into patient care. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals often demonstrate a commitment to efficiency and patient engagement. Examining the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, endocrinologists, and gastroenterologists, is also important. The need to travel long distances for specialized care can significantly impact the overall health score, especially for those with limited mobility or transportation options.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within Brockton's medical community is a significant indicator of its overall health score. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, connecting patients with physicians remotely. This is especially valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and mental health consultations. The level of telemedicine adoption can be assessed by examining the availability of virtual appointments, the use of remote monitoring devices, and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing practice workflows. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a proactive approach to improving access to care.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being, and their availability significantly impacts the health score. Brockton's access to mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, needs careful evaluation. Examining the number of mental health professionals per capita, the availability of crisis intervention services, and the presence of support groups are all crucial. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is another key indicator. Co-locating mental health professionals with PCPs can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. The presence of programs addressing substance abuse and addiction is equally important, given the potential impact of these issues on community health.

Analyzing the health score also requires considering the socio-economic factors that influence health outcomes. The prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, is often linked to factors like income, education, and access to healthy food options. Understanding the demographic makeup of the community, including age distribution, ethnicity, and insurance coverage rates, provides valuable context. Data on health disparities, such as differences in health outcomes across different population groups, can highlight areas where targeted interventions are needed.

The overall health score for Brockton, PA (ZIP code 17925) is likely to be moderate. While the area may have dedicated healthcare professionals, the potential challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios, access to specialized care, and the availability of mental health resources may pull the score down. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices could improve the overall score. However, a comprehensive assessment requires ongoing data collection and analysis.

The health score analysis underscores the importance of data visualization in understanding complex healthcare landscapes. To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare dynamics in Brockton and other communities, consider exploring the power of interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can transform raw data into actionable insights, allowing you to visualize physician locations, identify areas with limited access to care, and analyze the distribution of health resources. By visualizing these data points, you can gain a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape and identify opportunities for improvement.