18219, Conyngham, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18219, Conyngham, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.81 percent of the residents in 18219 has some form of health insurance. 37.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.67 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 18219 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 118 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18219. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 288 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,748 health care providers accessible to residents in 18219, Conyngham, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Conyngham, PA (ZIP Code 18219)

Assessing the overall health landscape within the Conyngham, Pennsylvania ZIP code of 18219 requires a multifaceted approach. It’s not simply about counting doctors; it’s about understanding the intricate web of access, resources, and the quality of care available to residents. This analysis aims to provide an ‘Overall Health Score’ by evaluating several key factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, 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.

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

A fundamental indicator of community health is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Conyngham, data suggests a potentially challenging situation. While precise figures fluctuate based on the source and the inclusion criteria (e.g., specialists vs. general practitioners), the overall impression is that the ratio might be less favorable compared to national averages. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a potentially growing population, creating potential bottlenecks in accessing primary care. This scarcity impacts appointment availability, leading to longer wait times and potentially delayed diagnoses. The impact is felt most acutely by the elderly and those with chronic conditions who require consistent medical attention.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is the cornerstone of a healthy community. PCPs act as gatekeepers, coordinating care and providing preventive services. In Conyngham, the accessibility of PCPs is a critical concern. The geographic distribution of practices is an important factor. Are practices clustered in specific areas, leaving residents in more remote locations with limited options? This can create health disparities based on location. Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients by existing practices is another crucial factor. If practices are full, residents may struggle to establish a relationship with a PCP, leading to fragmented care.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying ‘standout practices’ involves evaluating several criteria, including patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the adoption of advanced technologies. Analyzing patient reviews, if available, provides valuable insights into the patient experience. Are patients consistently reporting positive interactions with staff and physicians? Are they satisfied with the quality of care they receive? Practices that consistently receive high marks are a valuable asset to the community.

The range of services offered is another important consideration. Does the practice offer a comprehensive suite of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and diagnostic testing? Practices that provide a broad spectrum of services minimize the need for patients to travel to multiple locations for their healthcare needs. The adoption of advanced technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can also enhance the quality of care. EHRs streamline record-keeping and facilitate communication between providers, while patient portals empower patients to manage their health information and communicate with their doctors.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Conyngham. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their doctors remotely via video conferencing or phone calls, reducing the need for in-person visits.

The benefits of telemedicine extend beyond convenience. It can also improve access to specialists who may not be readily available in the local area. For example, patients with chronic conditions can receive regular check-ups and monitoring through telemedicine, helping to prevent complications and improve their overall health outcomes. The availability of telemedicine services can be a crucial factor in the overall health score of the community. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine also depends on the technological infrastructure available to residents, including reliable internet access.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and the availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor in assessing the health of a community. The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors is essential for addressing the mental health needs of residents. The accessibility of these resources, including appointment availability and insurance coverage, is also critical.

The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is a growing trend that can improve access to care. When mental health professionals are integrated into primary care settings, patients can receive both physical and mental healthcare in a single location. This can reduce stigma and improve outcomes. The availability of support groups and community-based mental health programs is another important consideration. These programs provide valuable support and resources for individuals struggling with mental health challenges.

**Overall Health Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the analysis, the ‘Overall Health Score’ for Conyngham, PA (ZIP Code 18219) is likely moderate. The physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of primary care physicians appear to be areas of concern, potentially limiting access to care. The presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources can improve the overall score.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Conyngham and surrounding areas, consider exploring interactive mapping tools. These tools can visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, providing a more comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility.