18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.14 percent of the residents in 18056 has some form of health insurance. 25.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.37 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 18056 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 294 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 40 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18056. An estimate of 94 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 195 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 43,900 health care providers accessible to residents in 18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Hereford, PA (ZIP Code 18056)

Assessing the overall health landscape in Hereford, Pennsylvania, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 18056 ZIP code, examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and gauging the accessibility of mental health resources. This comprehensive evaluation culminates in an overall health score, offering a nuanced understanding of healthcare access and quality in this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of any healthy community is readily available primary care. In Hereford, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. National averages provide a benchmark; however, rural areas often face disparities. Data collection from credible sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and publicly available physician directories, is crucial. This data reveals the number of practicing primary care physicians within the 18056 ZIP code and the estimated population served. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This directly impacts the overall health score.

Identifying standout practices is essential. This requires analyzing patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating the practices' commitment to preventative care. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, offer a wide array of services (including chronic disease management, women’s health, and pediatric care), and actively promote preventative screenings and vaccinations contribute positively to the health score. Conversely, practices with limited services or negative patient experiences detract from the overall rating. The quality of care, as perceived by the community, is a significant factor.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can impede access. Examining the adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Hereford is vital. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and convenience. The availability of these technologies can mitigate the impact of distance, transportation limitations, and scheduling constraints. Practices that embrace telemedicine enhance their contribution to a higher health score.

Mental health resources are equally important. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, therapists, counselors) within the 18056 ZIP code or in nearby areas readily accessible to residents. The presence of mental health services, including crisis intervention, counseling, and medication management, is a crucial factor. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, allowing for seamless coordination of care, further enhances the health score. This integration underscores a holistic approach to patient well-being.

The overall health score is a composite metric, reflecting the interplay of these factors. A higher score indicates a healthier community, characterized by a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality primary care practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and readily accessible mental health resources. A lower score suggests potential vulnerabilities, highlighting areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialized care, and inadequate mental health support.

To arrive at the overall score, each factor is assigned a weighted value based on its relative importance. The physician-to-patient ratio might carry a significant weight, reflecting its fundamental impact on access to care. The quality of practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources are also weighted, reflecting their contribution to overall patient well-being. The final score is then calculated, providing a numerical representation of the health landscape in Hereford.

The analysis also considers the specific challenges faced by rural communities. Transportation limitations, socioeconomic factors, and the availability of specialized care (e.g., cardiology, endocrinology) are considered. These contextual factors influence the overall health score, providing a more nuanced understanding of the community's needs.

The findings of this analysis are invaluable for various stakeholders. Residents can use this information to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Healthcare providers can identify areas for improvement and tailor their services to meet the community's needs. Policymakers can use this data to allocate resources effectively and address healthcare disparities. The overall health score serves as a valuable tool for promoting a healthier Hereford.

The data used in this analysis is collected from various sources, including public health agencies, physician directories, and patient reviews. It is important to note that the information is subject to change. The analysis is a snapshot in time, and the health landscape of Hereford is constantly evolving.

The ultimate goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare environment in Hereford, Pennsylvania. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the community's healthcare system, ultimately aiming to improve the health and well-being of its residents. The ongoing monitoring and assessment are critical for ensuring that the community's healthcare needs are met effectively.

For a deeper dive into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital access, and the proximity of mental health services, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a visual representation of the health landscape, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access in Hereford and beyond.