18451, Paupack, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18451, Paupack, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.93 percent of the residents in 18451 has some form of health insurance. 44.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.93 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 18451 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18451. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 233 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,481 health care providers accessible to residents in 18451, Paupack, Pennsylvania.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors and Primary Care in Paupack, PA (ZIP Code 18451)**

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Paupack, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into key metrics, 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 provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 18451.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access. However, simply calculating this ratio isn't enough. It’s crucial to consider the distribution of these physicians. Are they concentrated in a single practice, or are they dispersed throughout the community? Are they accepting new patients? In Paupack, a rural area, this ratio may be less favorable compared to urban centers. The geographic challenges of the region, including limited public transportation, further complicate access.

Identifying standout practices is essential. This involves researching practices with positive patient reviews, accreditations from reputable organizations, and a demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care. Factors to consider include the range of services offered (preventative care, chronic disease management, etc.), the availability of extended hours, and the integration of electronic health records for seamless information sharing. Examining the diversity of the medical staff, including the presence of specialists and support staff, adds to the evaluation.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge the gap in access by allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. This is particularly valuable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and consultations for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among primary care physicians in Paupack involves determining which practices offer virtual visits, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the ease of use of the technology. The presence of patient portals and secure messaging systems also contributes to a higher score.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is essential for addressing the growing mental health needs of the population. This assessment includes evaluating the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services offered (individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services. Are there long wait times for appointments? Are services covered by insurance? The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, such as the co-location of mental health professionals, also contributes to a higher score.

To accurately assess the overall health score, data from various sources must be integrated. This includes publicly available data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Patient reviews and ratings from online platforms, such as Healthgrades and Vitals, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction. Direct outreach to primary care practices in the area can provide information about services offered, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The overall health score for Paupack, PA (ZIP code 18451) is likely to be moderate. The rural nature of the area presents challenges in terms of physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialized care. While telemedicine adoption may be present, it's likely to vary among practices. Mental health resources may be limited, requiring residents to travel outside the immediate area for specialized care. The presence of standout practices with a strong commitment to patient-centered care and the integration of technology can positively influence the score.

The analysis also needs to consider the demographics of the population. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases can impact the demand for healthcare services. For example, a higher proportion of elderly residents may increase the demand for primary care and geriatric services. Understanding the specific health needs of the community is crucial for developing effective healthcare solutions.

Furthermore, the overall health score is not static. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The opening of new practices, the adoption of new technologies, and the expansion of mental health services can all impact the score. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for ensuring that residents have access to the healthcare they need.

The quality of care also relies on the ability of primary care physicians to coordinate with specialists. This includes the referral process, the exchange of medical records, and the communication of treatment plans. Practices that have established relationships with specialists and utilize electronic health records to facilitate information sharing are likely to provide better coordinated care.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score in Paupack, PA, requires a detailed examination of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While rural areas face unique challenges, the presence of dedicated healthcare professionals, the adoption of technology, and a commitment to patient-centered care can improve the overall health score and ensure that residents have access to the care they need.

For a visual representation of this data, including geographic distribution of physicians, practice locations, and access to services, consider using CartoChrome maps.