18470, Union Dale, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18470, Union Dale, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.32 percent of the residents in 18470 has some form of health insurance. 45.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.96 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 18470 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 256 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18470. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 520 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,314 health care providers accessible to residents in 18470, Union Dale, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Union Dale, PA (ZIP Code 18470)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Union Dale, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18470) requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates examining the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the integration of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care provided. This analysis provides an assessment of these crucial factors to determine an “Overall Health Score” for the community.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. In Union Dale, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical determinant of the overall health score. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely and routine medical care. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, exacerbation of chronic conditions, and increased reliance on emergency services. Conversely, a higher physician-to-patient ratio suggests a more accessible healthcare system, enabling preventative care and proactive health management.

Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires comprehensive data collection. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical licensing boards are valuable starting points. These sources can provide information on the number of licensed physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the estimated population. However, it's crucial to recognize that these figures alone don't paint the complete picture. The type of physician (e.g., general practitioner, internal medicine specialist) and their patient load capacity are also important considerations.

Standout practices within Union Dale can significantly impact the overall health score. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative service delivery, and a commitment to community health. Identifying these practices requires evaluating factors like patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of technology, and the range of services offered. Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs), patient portals, and online appointment scheduling can enhance patient convenience and improve communication. Furthermore, practices offering extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments can increase accessibility and address urgent healthcare needs.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in assessing the health landscape of Union Dale. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare services remotely using technology, offers numerous benefits, particularly in rural areas. It can overcome geographical barriers, increase access to specialists, and provide convenient follow-up care. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their operations can significantly improve the overall health score by increasing access to care and improving patient outcomes. The extent of telemedicine adoption can be assessed by examining the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring programs, and online health education resources.

Mental health resources are essential components of a comprehensive healthcare system. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, directly impacts the well-being of the community. In Union Dale, assessing the presence of these resources is crucial for determining the overall health score. The number of mental health professionals practicing within the ZIP code, the availability of specialized services (e.g., addiction treatment, child and adolescent psychiatry), and the accessibility of mental health support programs are key indicators. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices can improve early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

The overall quality of care provided by healthcare professionals in Union Dale is a crucial determinant of the health score. Assessing this requires evaluating factors like patient outcomes, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the use of quality improvement initiatives. Patient satisfaction surveys, clinical outcomes data, and the presence of accreditation or certification by recognized healthcare organizations can provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Practices that prioritize patient safety, implement effective communication strategies, and actively engage in quality improvement efforts are more likely to deliver high-quality care and contribute to a higher overall health score.

The overall health score for Union Dale (ZIP code 18470) is a composite measure. It considers the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the overall quality of care provided. This assessment is based on the available data and observations. Further investigation and data collection are needed to provide a more precise and comprehensive score.

The community's health score is not static; it is constantly evolving. Factors like population changes, advancements in medical technology, and the evolving needs of the community can influence the health score. Regular assessments and ongoing monitoring are essential to identify areas for improvement and to ensure that the healthcare system effectively meets the needs of the residents.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape in Union Dale, PA, provides a valuable snapshot of the community's health and well-being. It highlights the importance of accessible primary care, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. By understanding these factors, communities can work towards improving their overall health score and creating a healthier environment for all residents.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Union Dale and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful tools for visualizing data, identifying trends, and making informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.