18460, South Sterling, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18460, South Sterling, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.09 percent of the residents in 18460 has some form of health insurance. 88.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.22 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 18460 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 42 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18460. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 78 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,629 health care providers accessible to residents in 18460, South Sterling, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of overall health within ZIP Code 18460, specifically focusing on primary care physicians and their availability in South Sterling, Pennsylvania, reveals a complex picture. Determining a definitive "Overall Health Score" is challenging, as it necessitates a nuanced understanding of various factors. However, by examining physician-to-patient ratios, evaluating the presence of standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and considering the availability of mental health resources, we can begin to paint a comprehensive picture.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric for assessing healthcare access. In South Sterling, data suggests a potential scarcity of primary care physicians relative to the population. This situation can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. The specific ratio within 18460 requires detailed investigation. Analyzing the number of active primary care physicians registered within the ZIP code, and comparing that number to the total population, is the first step. Further research should consider the age distribution of the population, as an aging population often requires more frequent medical attention.

The presence of standout practices can significantly influence the overall health landscape. These practices, characterized by high patient satisfaction, advanced medical technology, and a commitment to preventative care, can serve as beacons of excellence. Identifying such practices within 18460 involves examining online reviews, assessing the range of services offered, and evaluating the qualifications and experience of the physicians. Practices that embrace a patient-centered approach, emphasizing communication and shared decision-making, are particularly valuable. The existence of specialized clinics, such as those focused on chronic disease management or geriatric care, would further enhance the score.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly transforming healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like South Sterling. Telemedicine can increase access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within 18460 involves determining the number of practices offering virtual consultations, the types of services available through telemedicine (e.g., follow-up appointments, medication management), and the ease of use of the technology. Practices that integrate telemedicine seamlessly into their workflow, providing patients with convenient and accessible care options, contribute positively to the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health conditions. Evaluating the mental health landscape in 18460 requires assessing the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times). The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and partnerships between primary care physicians and mental health professionals would significantly enhance the score.

The overall health score for 18460, considering these factors, is likely moderate, with areas for improvement. The potential scarcity of primary care physicians, coupled with the need for greater telemedicine adoption and increased mental health resources, suggests challenges in accessing quality healthcare. However, the presence of standout practices, if any, and the potential for community initiatives to address health disparities, could offset some of these challenges. A deeper dive into the specifics of each element is needed to accurately determine the score.

The analysis would benefit from additional data. This includes patient surveys to gauge satisfaction with the current healthcare system, an examination of health outcomes data (e.g., rates of chronic diseases, preventable hospitalizations), and a review of community health initiatives. The investigation of insurance coverage, particularly the prevalence of Medicare and Medicaid, is also important. A population that is primarily reliant on these programs can face additional barriers to care.

Further, the integration of data from local hospitals and urgent care facilities is crucial. The presence of a well-equipped hospital with a comprehensive range of services, including specialized care, can significantly impact the health of the community. The accessibility of urgent care facilities, providing immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions, can reduce the burden on primary care physicians and emergency rooms.

The availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, is another factor. The need to travel long distances for specialized care can create additional burdens for patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or limited financial resources. Practices that offer a wide range of services, or that have established referral networks with specialists in nearby communities, contribute to a higher overall health score.

Community engagement is also a key factor. The presence of community health programs, such as health education initiatives, free health screenings, and support groups, can empower residents to take control of their health. Partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies can improve access to care and address health disparities.

The overall health score for 18460, therefore, is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the healthcare ecosystem. It is influenced by the interplay of various factors, including physician availability, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of technology, the availability of mental health resources, and the level of community engagement. Continuous monitoring and improvement efforts are essential to ensure that residents of South Sterling have access to the healthcare they need to live healthy lives.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 18460 and the surrounding areas, and to analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a powerful tool for visualizing data, identifying areas of need, and informing decision-making.