18453, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18453, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.19 percent of the residents in 18453 has some form of health insurance. 38.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.27 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 18453 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 325 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18453. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 297 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 722 health care providers accessible to residents in 18453, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Pleasant Mount, PA (ZIP Code 18453)

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 18453, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, the adoption of modern healthcare practices, and the presence of crucial support services. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating these key aspects, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. In Pleasant Mount, the geographic isolation and rural nature of the area present unique challenges. Evaluating primary care availability involves examining the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas, considering the distance patients must travel to access these services. A low density of PCPs, coupled with long travel times, would negatively impact the score. Furthermore, the acceptance of new patients by existing practices is a crucial factor. Practices consistently at capacity, or those with long wait times, suggest potential access barriers.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. The national average provides a benchmark for comparison. A ratio significantly below the national average, indicating a higher concentration of physicians per capita, would positively influence the score. Conversely, a lower ratio, pointing to a potential shortage of PCPs, would negatively affect the overall assessment. The analysis must consider the age distribution of the population within 18453, as a larger elderly population often requires more frequent medical attention, placing additional strain on the available resources.

Identifying standout practices involves a qualitative assessment. This includes evaluating patient reviews, considering the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management), and assessing the use of technology to enhance patient care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employing innovative approaches to improve health outcomes, and actively engaging with the community would contribute positively to the overall score. This analysis must consider factors such as the practice’s affiliation with larger healthcare systems, which can provide access to a broader network of specialists and resources.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the overall health score. The ability to access healthcare services remotely, particularly in a rural area like Pleasant Mount, can significantly improve access and convenience. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and online patient portals would be viewed favorably. The degree to which these technologies are integrated into the practice workflow and utilized by patients is also a key factor. Successful telemedicine implementation can mitigate the challenges of geographical barriers and limited physician availability.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive health assessment. The analysis must consider the presence of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The ability to access mental health services locally, without significant travel, is vital. Furthermore, the integration of mental healthcare into primary care practices, such as offering behavioral health services on-site, would positively impact the score. This includes assessing the availability of support groups, crisis intervention services, and educational programs focused on mental wellness.

The evaluation of these factors will result in an "Overall Health Score" for Pleasant Mount, PA (18453). The score would reflect the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of healthcare services available to residents. A high score would indicate a healthy community with readily available primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would signal potential challenges in accessing care and the need for improvements in various areas.

Specific data points will be crucial for the analysis. Information on the number of PCPs, the patient-to-physician ratio, and the availability of specialists must be gathered from reliable sources such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association. Patient reviews and practice information can be obtained from online platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals. Information on telemedicine adoption and mental health resources can be gathered through surveys and direct contact with local healthcare providers.

The challenges of healthcare in rural areas like Pleasant Mount are well-documented. Limited access to specialists, the difficulties of recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals, and the financial constraints faced by smaller practices are common issues. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, including initiatives to improve access to primary care, promote the adoption of telehealth, and increase the availability of mental health services.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a static measure. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. The score can be used to identify areas where improvements are needed and to track the effectiveness of interventions designed to enhance healthcare access and quality. The goal is to create a healthier community for the residents of Pleasant Mount.

The analysis will also consider the socioeconomic factors that can impact health outcomes. These factors include income levels, educational attainment, and access to healthy food options. These factors can significantly influence the overall health of a community.

The evaluation will also consider the demographics of the population. The age distribution, ethnic composition, and the prevalence of chronic diseases will influence the assessment of the health landscape.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pleasant Mount, and to visualize the data effectively, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a more in-depth analysis of the health resources available in the area.