18202, Hazleton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18202, Hazleton, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.56 percent of the residents in 18202 has some form of health insurance. 46.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.49 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 18202 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,982 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18202. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,621 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,507 health care providers accessible to residents in 18202, Hazleton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Hazleton, PA (ZIP Code 18202)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Hazleton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18202) requires a comprehensive evaluation of available medical resources, including the accessibility and quality of primary care physicians. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" by examining key factors like physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the healthcare environment and identify areas of strength and potential improvement.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare access. In an ideal scenario, a lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, translates to easier appointment scheduling, reduced wait times, and more personalized care. Data suggests that Hazleton, and by extension ZIP code 18202, faces challenges in this area. The ratio is likely higher than the national average, potentially indicating a shortage of primary care physicians relative to the population. This shortage can be attributed to several factors, including the aging population of Hazleton, the geographic isolation from larger metropolitan areas with greater physician density, and the potential for a lower concentration of medical professionals choosing to practice in the area. This higher ratio could lead to longer wait times for appointments, impacting the ability of residents to access timely medical attention, especially for preventative care and the management of chronic conditions.

Identifying standout primary care practices is crucial. These practices often demonstrate superior patient care, utilize advanced technologies, and offer a comprehensive range of services. While specific practice names are omitted for privacy and competitive reasons, a thorough analysis would involve evaluating factors like patient reviews, accreditation status, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative screenings, chronic disease management, specialist referrals), and the integration of electronic health records. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback, are accredited by recognized organizations, and demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care are likely to be considered high-performing. These practices often serve as beacons of quality, but their impact is limited if the overall supply of physicians is insufficient to meet the population’s needs.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in assessing healthcare accessibility. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, via video or phone, can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those residing in geographically remote areas. The extent of telemedicine adoption within Hazleton's primary care practices is a crucial element of this analysis. A higher adoption rate suggests a more forward-thinking healthcare system that is embracing technological advancements to improve patient convenience and access. Conversely, a lower adoption rate might indicate a lag in technological integration, potentially limiting access to care for certain segments of the population.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of overall health. Mental health issues are prevalent, and access to timely and appropriate care is essential. This analysis considers the presence of mental health providers, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, within the 18202 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. It also examines the availability of mental health services within primary care practices, such as screening for depression and anxiety. The existence of support groups, community mental health centers, and collaborations between primary care physicians and mental health professionals are also important indicators. A robust mental health infrastructure is essential for addressing the mental well-being of the population, and its absence can significantly impact the overall health score.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. Hazleton, like many communities, faces challenges related to poverty, unemployment, and access to healthy food options. These factors can significantly impact the health of the population, leading to higher rates of chronic diseases and other health problems. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis must consider these factors and their potential impact on the overall health score. The availability of social services, such as food banks and housing assistance programs, can also play a crucial role in supporting the health and well-being of the community.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 18202, and the availability of primary care in Hazleton, is likely to be moderate. While there may be some standout practices offering high-quality care, the challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios, the potential for limited telemedicine adoption, and the need for enhanced mental health resources suggest that there is room for improvement. Addressing the physician shortage, encouraging telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health services are crucial steps towards improving the overall health of the community. Further, addressing the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes is also critical.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hazleton, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and mental health providers, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data, enabling you to analyze healthcare access and identify areas of need within the community.