18220, Delano, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18220, Delano, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.02 percent of the residents in 18220 has some form of health insurance. 33.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.58 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 18220 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 63 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18220. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 46 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,590 health care providers accessible to residents in 18220, Delano, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18220 and Primary Care Availability in Delano

Delano, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP Code 18220, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access and quality. Assessing the overall health score for this community requires a nuanced examination of several key factors, moving beyond simple metrics to understand the lived experience of residents seeking medical care. This analysis delves into physician-to-patient ratios, highlights standout practices, examines telemedicine adoption, and assesses the availability of mental health resources, ultimately painting a picture of the healthcare ecosystem in Delano.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, understanding the general trend is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and increased stress for both patients and physicians. Analyzing publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is vital. This data, coupled with information from local hospitals and clinics, provides a snapshot of the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals within the ZIP code. The presence of a local hospital, while not always directly correlated to the number of primary care physicians, often influences the overall healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of specialists and emergency services.

Identifying standout practices is crucial to understanding the quality of care available. This involves looking beyond simple metrics and considering factors like patient satisfaction, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer extended hours, and actively participate in community outreach initiatives often demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. Reviewing online patient reviews, while not always definitive, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Furthermore, examining the practice’s accreditation status, the qualifications of its physicians, and its participation in quality improvement programs are important indicators of quality.

Telemedicine adoption is transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Delano. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in geographically isolated areas. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services involves identifying which practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered through telemedicine (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management, mental health counseling), and the technology infrastructure in place to support these services. This includes examining the availability of high-speed internet access in the community, as this is a prerequisite for effective telemedicine.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing the growing mental health needs of the community. Assessing the mental health landscape involves identifying the number of mental health professionals practicing within the ZIP code, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. This includes considering factors like insurance acceptance, appointment availability, and the presence of support groups or community mental health programs. Furthermore, understanding the level of collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is crucial for ensuring coordinated care.

The overall health score for Delano, Pennsylvania, ZIP Code 18220, is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that reflects the interplay of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall health and well-being of the community. A comprehensive analysis requires continuous monitoring and evaluation. It is essential to recognize that a low physician-to-patient ratio does not automatically equate to poor health outcomes. However, it can create barriers to access that may lead to delayed care and poorer health outcomes. Similarly, the presence of excellent practices can significantly improve the health of the community, even in the face of other challenges.

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving access, especially for those facing geographical or mobility challenges. However, its effectiveness is contingent on reliable internet access and patient comfort with technology. The availability of mental health resources is critical, and a community that prioritizes mental health will likely experience better overall health outcomes. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can improve access and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Delano, Pennsylvania, requires a holistic approach that considers the complex interplay of factors affecting healthcare access and quality. While specific data points fluctuate, the general trends and observations provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem in this community. This analysis highlights the importance of continuous monitoring, community engagement, and the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers to improve the health and well-being of the residents of Delano.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Delano and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools that can help you visualize physician density, identify areas with limited access to care, and analyze other relevant health indicators.