17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.33 percent of the residents in 17979 has some form of health insurance. 18.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.30 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 17979 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17979. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 11 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,194 health care providers accessible to residents in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Summit Station (ZIP Code 17979)

Evaluating the overall health score for Summit Station, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17979) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape within this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased stress on existing healthcare providers. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for Summit Station requires accessing data from state medical boards and potentially cross-referencing with population estimates. Due to the rural nature of the area, the ratio might be less favorable compared to more densely populated regions. This necessitates a closer examination of the existing primary care infrastructure.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of a healthy community. It encompasses the presence of family physicians, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians. Assessing availability involves identifying the number of practices within the ZIP code, their hours of operation, and whether they are accepting new patients. Geographic proximity is also a crucial factor. Residents in rural areas may face challenges in accessing care due to limited transportation options and longer travel distances to medical facilities. This factor is particularly important when considering the elderly or those with mobility issues.

Identifying standout practices involves recognizing those that demonstrate exceptional patient care, employ advanced technologies, and offer a wide range of services. This assessment considers factors such as patient satisfaction ratings, the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs), and the availability of specialized services like chronic disease management programs. While specific practice names cannot be included in this analysis without violating privacy, research can reveal practices that have received positive reviews or have been recognized for their commitment to patient-centered care. These practices can serve as benchmarks for other providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially in rural communities. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially expanding access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. The availability of reliable internet access is also a critical factor, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine services. The success of telemedicine hinges on the seamless integration of technology with existing healthcare workflows.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health services involves identifying the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the ZIP code or in nearby areas. It also involves evaluating the availability of mental health support groups, crisis intervention services, and substance abuse treatment programs. The stigma surrounding mental health often prevents individuals from seeking help, so the accessibility and visibility of these resources are paramount. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices can also improve access and reduce barriers to care.

A comprehensive health score for Summit Station would integrate all these factors. It would weigh the physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, the presence of standout practices, the extent of telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The weighting of each factor would depend on its relative importance in contributing to overall health outcomes. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare infrastructure with good access to care, while a low score would highlight areas needing improvement.

The challenge in assessing a rural area like Summit Station lies in the limited data availability. Publicly available datasets may not provide the granular detail needed to conduct a thorough analysis. This necessitates the use of multiple data sources, including state health departments, healthcare provider directories, and patient surveys. The analysis should also consider demographic factors, such as age, income, and education levels, as these factors can influence health outcomes and access to care.

Further research could involve gathering data on specific health indicators, such as chronic disease prevalence, preventative care utilization rates, and mental health service utilization rates. This information would provide a more complete picture of the community's health status and help identify specific areas where interventions are needed. Collaborating with local healthcare providers and community organizations can also provide valuable insights and ensure the accuracy of the analysis.

The overall health score for Summit Station is not a static measure. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. This includes tracking the opening and closing of practices, the adoption of new technologies, and the availability of new services. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that the community's healthcare needs are being met.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Summit Station is crucial for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It provides a basis for making informed decisions about healthcare access, resource allocation, and community health initiatives. By carefully considering the factors discussed above, a comprehensive and accurate assessment of the overall health score can be achieved.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in Summit Station and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a detailed view of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a more in-depth understanding of healthcare accessibility and availability.