18327, Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18327, Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.31 percent of the residents in 18327 has some form of health insurance. 24.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.03 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 18327 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 116 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18327. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 108 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,698 health care providers accessible to residents in 18327, Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Delaware Water Gap (ZIP Code 18327)

Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania, a picturesque borough nestled within the Pocono Mountains, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when assessing its overall health score, particularly concerning the availability and quality of primary care. This analysis delves into the specifics of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources within ZIP code 18327, ultimately providing a nuanced understanding of the community’s health landscape.

The cornerstone of any robust health assessment is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available sources and demographic data suggest that Delaware Water Gap, and the broader Monroe County, may face a challenge. The area’s population density, coupled with its relative remoteness, can influence the number of physicians willing to establish practices. This can lead to higher patient-to-physician ratios compared to more urbanized areas. This, in turn, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially limited access to timely care, particularly for those with chronic conditions or requiring preventative services.

Within ZIP code 18327, the landscape of primary care is likely dominated by a few key practices, potentially affiliated with larger healthcare systems or networks operating in the surrounding region. These practices, therefore, become critical components of the overall health score. The reputation of these practices, measured through patient reviews, online ratings, and anecdotal evidence, plays a significant role. Practices with a strong emphasis on patient communication, comprehensive care coordination, and a commitment to preventative medicine are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score. Conversely, practices struggling with patient satisfaction, long wait times, or limited service offerings could negatively impact the score.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has emerged as a potentially transformative force, especially in geographically isolated areas like Delaware Water Gap. The adoption rate of telemedicine by local primary care practices is a key indicator. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to score higher. This is because telemedicine can help overcome geographical barriers, providing access to care for patients who might otherwise struggle to travel to appointments. It can also improve convenience and potentially reduce healthcare costs. The extent to which practices utilize telemedicine for chronic disease management, mental health support, and medication refills is a critical factor in determining its impact on the overall health score.

Beyond physical health, the availability and accessibility of mental health resources are crucial components of a comprehensive health assessment. Delaware Water Gap, like many rural communities, may face challenges in this area. The presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the ZIP code or in close proximity is a significant factor. The availability of mental health services, including individual therapy, group therapy, and psychiatric medication management, directly impacts the community's mental well-being. The degree to which primary care practices integrate mental health screening and referral services also plays a crucial role. A coordinated approach, where primary care physicians can easily refer patients to mental health specialists, is highly desirable and contributes positively to the overall health score.

The affordability of healthcare services is another essential consideration. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, by local practices is critical. The availability of financial assistance programs and resources for uninsured or underinsured individuals also impacts the community's health outcomes. The overall cost of care, including the cost of prescriptions, diagnostic tests, and specialist referrals, needs to be considered in the assessment. High healthcare costs can deter individuals from seeking necessary medical attention, leading to poorer health outcomes.

The quality of care provided by local practices is also a crucial factor. This includes the use of evidence-based medicine, the implementation of quality improvement initiatives, and the adherence to national guidelines for preventative care and chronic disease management. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement programs, such as those offered by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), are likely to demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care. The availability of specialized services, such as diabetes education, asthma management programs, and geriatric care, also contributes to the overall health score.

Furthermore, the demographics of the population served by these practices must be considered. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and cultural diversity of the community can influence the specific healthcare needs of the population. Practices that are culturally competent and sensitive to the needs of diverse patient populations are better equipped to provide effective and equitable care. The presence of bilingual staff and the availability of translated materials can enhance access to care for non-English speakers.

In summary, the overall health score for Delaware Water Gap (ZIP code 18327) reflects a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the reputation and service offerings of local primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the affordability of care, and the quality of care provided all contribute to the overall assessment. While the area may face some challenges related to physician access and geographical limitations, the presence of dedicated practices, the potential for telemedicine integration, and the availability of local resources can positively influence the health outcomes of the community. A comprehensive assessment requires ongoing monitoring of these factors and a commitment to addressing any identified gaps in care.

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