18249, Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18249, Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.65 percent of the residents in 18249 has some form of health insurance. 31.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.02 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 18249 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 777 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18249. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 906 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,662 health care providers accessible to residents in 18249, Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Sugarloaf, PA (ZIP Code 18249)

Analyzing the overall health landscape in Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18249) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves scrutinizing the availability and quality of primary care physicians, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, evaluating the adoption of telemedicine, and examining the presence of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ for the community.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on accessible primary care. Within ZIP Code 18249, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Determining the exact number of practicing primary care physicians within the specified geographic boundary is the initial step. This data, however, only provides a partial picture. The type of practices these physicians operate in, the hours they are available, and their acceptance of various insurance plans all contribute to the overall accessibility.

A crucial metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, calculated by dividing the population of Sugarloaf by the number of practicing primary care physicians, offers a quantifiable measure of access. A higher ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and receiving consistent care. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates a potentially healthier environment for accessing primary care services. This ratio should be compared to state and national averages to understand the relative health of Sugarloaf's primary care availability.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. These practices often demonstrate exemplary patient care, employ innovative approaches, and offer a wider range of services. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information management, and the integration of preventative care programs. Practices that actively participate in community health initiatives and demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, via video conferencing or phone calls, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those who struggle to take time off work. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services among the primary care physicians in Sugarloaf provides insights into the community's ability to leverage technology for improved healthcare delivery. Assessing the types of telemedicine services offered, such as virtual check-ups, prescription refills, and specialist consultations, provides further context.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within and around ZIP Code 18249 is crucial. The presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups contributes to a more comprehensive health ecosystem. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices, such as screening for mental health conditions during routine check-ups, is a positive indicator of a community's commitment to holistic well-being.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized healthcare services, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, within a reasonable distance from Sugarloaf impacts the overall health score. While this analysis focuses on primary care, access to specialized care is essential for managing chronic conditions and addressing complex health issues. The distance to hospitals, urgent care facilities, and specialized medical centers directly affects the community's ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

The demographics of Sugarloaf also play a role. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within the community provides valuable context. For example, a community with a large elderly population may require more resources for geriatric care and chronic disease management. Similarly, socioeconomic factors can influence access to healthcare and health outcomes.

To generate an ‘Overall Health Score,’ these various factors need to be weighted and combined. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the quality of primary care practices all contribute to the final score. The score can be presented on a scale, such as a percentage or a letter grade, to provide a clear and concise assessment of the community's health landscape. This score should be periodically updated to reflect changes in healthcare availability and quality.

It is important to note that this analysis is based on publicly available data and information. A more comprehensive assessment would involve gathering data directly from healthcare providers, patients, and community organizations. This could involve surveys, interviews, and data analysis to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare needs and challenges in Sugarloaf.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in Sugarloaf, Pennsylvania. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, the community can work to improve access to care, enhance the quality of services, and ultimately promote a healthier population. This information can also be used by policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to make informed decisions about resource allocation and healthcare planning.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Sugarloaf, including physician locations, practice types, and proximity to specialized services, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform provides a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and gaining a deeper understanding of the health resources available in your community.