The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 95.10 percent of the residents in 18464 has some form of health insurance. 36.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.81 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 18464 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 334 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18464. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 340 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 991 health care providers accessible to residents in 18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18464, Tafton, Pennsylvania
Overall Health Score | 51 |
---|---|
People Score | 72 |
Provider Score | 23 |
Hospital Score | 65 |
Travel Score | 34 |
18464 | Tafton | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 1,632.26 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 8,135.05 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 7,205.88 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Overall Health Score Analysis: Tafton, PA (ZIP Code 18464)
Analyzing the overall health score for Tafton, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 18464 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout medical practices, the degree of telemedicine adoption, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This comprehensive assessment provides a clearer picture of the community's health landscape.
The foundation of a healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Tafton, the density of primary care doctors is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial preventative care and treatment. Assessing the number of practicing primary care physicians within the 18464 ZIP code, alongside the estimated population served, allows for a preliminary understanding of accessibility. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau provides the baseline information necessary for this calculation.
Beyond raw numbers, the quality and reputation of the medical practices in Tafton significantly impact the overall health score. Identifying standout practices involves considering factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered, and the accreditations held by the physicians and the facilities. Practices that emphasize preventative care, offer comprehensive services, and demonstrate a commitment to patient satisfaction contribute positively to the community's health profile. Examining the types of insurance accepted, the availability of extended hours, and the presence of specialized services like chronic disease management also plays a role in this evaluation.
Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations or online portals, can greatly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in geographically remote areas. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in Tafton involves investigating whether practices offer virtual appointments, online prescription refills, and secure patient portals. Practices embracing telehealth technologies demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to healthcare delivery.
Mental health resources are indispensable for a community's overall well-being. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is a key indicator of a healthy community. Evaluating the mental health landscape in Tafton requires identifying the number of mental health professionals practicing within the area, 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 community mental health centers, crisis intervention services, and partnerships with local organizations further strengthens the mental health infrastructure.
A detailed analysis of the 18464 ZIP code should also consider socioeconomic factors. Poverty levels, educational attainment, and access to healthy food options can significantly influence health outcomes. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other sources can be used to analyze these factors and their potential impact on the overall health score. Understanding the social determinants of health allows for a more nuanced interpretation of the available healthcare resources.
The evaluation process also includes assessing the age and demographics of the population served. The healthcare needs of a predominantly elderly population differ significantly from those of a younger demographic. Understanding the age distribution and prevalence of chronic diseases within the community provides valuable context for evaluating the adequacy of healthcare services. This demographic information is essential for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the population.
Furthermore, examining the availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, dermatology, and gastroenterology, provides a more comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of a healthy community, access to specialized care is essential for managing complex health conditions. The presence of specialists within the area, or the proximity to specialized care in nearby towns, contributes to the overall health score.
The evaluation should also consider the quality of the healthcare facilities. Are the hospitals and clinics in Tafton modern, well-equipped, and staffed with qualified professionals? Accreditation from reputable organizations, such as the Joint Commission, can indicate a commitment to quality and patient safety. The availability of advanced medical technologies and the implementation of electronic health records are also important factors.
The analysis should also consider the patient experience. Patient satisfaction surveys, online reviews, and feedback from community members can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by the physicians and practices in Tafton. Positive patient experiences contribute to a more positive overall health score.
Ultimately, the overall health score for Tafton, PA (18464) is a composite measure reflecting the interplay of all these factors. A high score indicates a community with readily accessible primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, robust mental health resources, and a supportive socioeconomic environment. Conversely, a low score suggests areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, expanding mental health services, or addressing social determinants of health.
To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Tafton and other areas, consider exploring the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome allows you to overlay various data points, including physician locations, clinic locations, and demographic information, onto a map, providing a clear and comprehensive overview of healthcare access and availability.
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