17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.78 percent of the residents in 17982 has some form of health insurance. 53.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.62 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 17982 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 37 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17982. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 173 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,811 health care providers accessible to residents in 17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17982 & Primary Care in Tuscarora

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 17982, encompassing the area surrounding Tuscarora, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must delve beyond simple headcounts and consider factors that significantly impact patient access, quality of care, and overall well-being. This analysis will assess the current state of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This will then culminate in an "Overall Health Score" assessment.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In Tuscarora (ZIP Code 17982), assessing the availability of primary care physicians is paramount. This involves evaluating the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the geographical area, accounting for their specialties (e.g., internal medicine, family practice, pediatrics), and determining their patient load capacity. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, local hospital systems (if present), and insurance provider directories are crucial for this initial assessment. The presence of urgent care facilities, while not substitutes for comprehensive primary care, can provide some degree of access for immediate needs.

Physician-to-patient ratios are critical indicators of accessibility. A high ratio, meaning a smaller number of physicians serving a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential strain on the healthcare system. Conversely, a lower ratio, indicating a greater availability of physicians, generally translates to improved access and potentially better health outcomes. Determining the specific physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 17982 requires accurate population data and a precise count of actively practicing PCPs. This data should be compared to national and state averages to understand how Tuscarora fares in terms of physician availability.

Identifying standout practices is essential for understanding the quality of care offered within the area. This involves researching practices known for their patient-centered approach, their commitment to preventative care, and their positive patient outcomes. Examining online reviews (while acknowledging potential biases), assessing the practice's accreditations (e.g., NCQA), and considering any awards or recognition received can help identify practices that are excelling in patient care. Furthermore, understanding the practice's integration with specialists and hospital systems is vital for providing comprehensive care.

Telemedicine adoption is a rapidly evolving aspect of healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within ZIP Code 17982 involves determining which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring), and the availability of technology support for patients. The presence of broadband internet access is also a critical factor in the feasibility of telemedicine adoption.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, counselors) within ZIP Code 17982 is essential. This includes assessing the number of mental health providers, their specialties, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and access to crisis intervention services are also important considerations. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as the co-location of mental health professionals or the use of screening tools, can improve access and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health care.

Synthesizing all these factors is necessary to arrive at an "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 17982 and the availability of primary care in Tuscarora. This score should reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of healthcare services available to residents. The score could be a numerical value or a qualitative assessment (e.g., "Excellent," "Good," "Fair," "Poor") based on the weighted importance of each factor. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might be given a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, depending on the specific needs and demographics of the community.

The final "Overall Health Score" should be accompanied by a detailed analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in the area. This analysis should identify areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding telemedicine services, or enhancing mental health resources. It should also highlight any existing initiatives or programs that are working well.

In conclusion, a thorough analysis of the health landscape in ZIP Code 17982, with a specific focus on Tuscarora and primary care availability, reveals a complex interplay of factors. The "Overall Health Score" provides a valuable snapshot of the current state of healthcare, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require attention. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to improve the health and well-being of the residents of Tuscarora and the surrounding areas.

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