18013, Bangor, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18013, Bangor, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.17 percent of the residents in 18013 has some form of health insurance. 39.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.89 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 18013 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,260 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18013. An estimate of 56 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,184 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,964 health care providers accessible to residents in 18013, Bangor, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Bangor, PA (ZIP Code 18013)

Evaluating the overall health landscape in Bangor, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18013) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors influencing healthcare access, quality, and community well-being, ultimately culminating in an "Overall Health Score" assessment. This score, while not a single numerical value, represents a holistic understanding of the healthcare environment for residents.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Access:**

A fundamental element of healthcare access is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in Bangor requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). This information is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential delays in addressing health concerns. The geographic distribution of these physicians within the ZIP code is also critical. Are practices clustered in one area, leaving other sections of Bangor underserved? This spatial analysis is essential for understanding true access.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several metrics. Patient reviews, available on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, provide insights into patient satisfaction with communication, wait times, and overall experience. Accreditation by organizations like the Joint Commission or the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) often signifies adherence to high standards of care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to preventative care, chronic disease management, and patient education should be recognized. Furthermore, an examination of the types of insurance accepted by practices and the availability of services for underserved populations, such as those with Medicaid or Medicare, is vital.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

The adoption of telemedicine, or telehealth, is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine use by Bangor practices is crucial. Do practices offer virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication refills, or follow-up consultations? The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in remote areas. The quality of telemedicine services, including the technology used and the training of providers in virtual care, must also be considered.

**Mental Health Resources and Integration:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources in Bangor is paramount. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and counselors. Are these professionals accepting new patients? Are there any community mental health centers or support groups available? The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also a positive indicator. Collaborative care models, where primary care physicians and mental health professionals work together, can improve outcomes for patients with mental health conditions. Furthermore, the presence of crisis intervention services and suicide prevention resources is essential.

**Specific Considerations for Bangor (18013):**

Bangor, like many communities, faces unique challenges. The economic demographics of the area, including rates of poverty and unemployment, can significantly impact health outcomes. Social determinants of health, such as access to healthy food, safe housing, and opportunities for physical activity, play a crucial role. An assessment of these factors is vital for a comprehensive understanding of the health landscape. The presence of local community organizations and initiatives focused on health promotion and disease prevention is also an important consideration.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the factors discussed, an "Overall Health Score" for Bangor (18013) can be conceptualized. This score is not a single number but a composite evaluation. If the physician-to-patient ratio is favorable, there is a wide range of quality practices with good patient reviews, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources, then the "Overall Health Score" would be considered high. Conversely, if access to care is limited, quality is variable, telemedicine adoption is low, and mental health resources are scarce, the "Overall Health Score" would be lower. The presence of community initiatives and efforts to address social determinants of health would positively influence the score.

**Primary Care Availability in Bangor:**

Primary care availability is a crucial component of the overall health score. The number of PCPs, their geographical distribution, and their acceptance of various insurance plans directly impact access. Longer wait times for appointments, limited appointment availability, and a lack of insurance coverage can negatively affect primary care availability. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments demonstrate a commitment to improving access. The integration of care coordination services, such as care managers who help patients navigate the healthcare system, also improves access.

**Conclusion:**

Understanding the health landscape in Bangor (18013) requires a detailed assessment of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the overall health of the community. To gain a visual representation of the healthcare environment, including the locations of practices, physician density, and areas with limited access, consider exploring the power of data visualization.

**Call to Action:**

Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Bangor (18013) and gain a deeper understanding of access and availability? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you analyze physician locations, patient demographics, and other vital health data, providing a clear and insightful view of the healthcare environment.