18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.90 percent of the residents in 18504 has some form of health insurance. 45.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.27 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 18504 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,938 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18504. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,595 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,026 health care providers accessible to residents in 18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18504)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Scranton, PA, specifically focusing on the 18504 ZIP code, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. We will then synthesize this information to provide an overall health score assessment for the area.

The foundation of any healthy community lies in accessible primary care. In 18504, assessing primary care availability involves considering the number of practicing physicians, their specialties, and their willingness to accept new patients. Unfortunately, pinpointing the exact number of primary care physicians solely within this ZIP code is challenging without proprietary data. However, publicly available resources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local hospital directories, can provide estimates. A key indicator of access is the physician-to-patient ratio. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Conversely, a higher ratio can indicate potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and comprehensive care.

Scranton, like many cities, likely experiences disparities in primary care access based on factors like insurance coverage, socioeconomic status, and transportation options. Residents with limited resources may face greater hurdles in accessing care, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes. The presence of federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and community clinics can play a crucial role in mitigating these disparities by providing affordable and accessible care to underserved populations.

Identifying standout medical practices within 18504 requires evaluating several criteria. These include the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction ratings, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices with a strong reputation often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, employing well-trained staff and utilizing modern medical equipment. The availability of specialized services, such as chronic disease management programs, preventative care initiatives, and on-site diagnostic testing, can further enhance the overall quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in recent years. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor patients, and provide online access to medical records can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or living in geographically isolated areas. Examining the extent to which primary care practices in 18504 have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered and the ease of use for patients, is crucial for assessing the overall health landscape. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their operations are likely to provide more convenient and accessible care options.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services in 18504 involves evaluating the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area, as well as the availability of mental health clinics and support groups. Access to mental health care is often hindered by factors such as stigma, cost, and a shortage of providers. The presence of community mental health centers and partnerships between primary care practices and mental health professionals can help improve access to care and reduce the burden of mental illness.

To arrive at an overall health score for 18504, we must synthesize the information gathered on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This score would ideally be based on a weighted average of these factors, with each factor contributing to the overall assessment. For example, a high physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score, while the presence of a well-regarded medical practice with robust telemedicine capabilities would positively influence the score.

Without access to real-time, proprietary data, providing a precise numerical score is impossible. However, we can make some general observations. Scranton, like many urban areas, likely faces challenges in ensuring equitable access to healthcare. The physician-to-patient ratio might be a concern, and disparities in access based on socioeconomic factors are likely. The presence of community clinics and FQHCs would be a positive factor. The adoption of telemedicine could vary among practices, but its presence would be a significant advantage. Mental health resources, while present, might face challenges related to access and affordability.

To improve the overall health score, the community could focus on several key areas. Increasing the number of primary care physicians, especially those accepting new patients, is crucial. Expanding the availability of mental health services, including reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, is also essential. Promoting the adoption of telemedicine and ensuring that all residents have access to the technology needed to participate in virtual care would further enhance access. Supporting community clinics and FQHCs and addressing the social determinants of health, such as poverty and lack of transportation, would also contribute to a healthier community.

In conclusion, assessing the health landscape of 18504 requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. While challenges exist, the presence of dedicated healthcare providers and community resources offers a foundation for improvement. Understanding the spatial distribution of these resources and identifying areas of need is critical for effective healthcare planning and resource allocation.

**For a visual representation of the health landscape in Scranton, including the spatial distribution of healthcare providers, demographics, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Gain a deeper understanding of the health disparities and opportunities for improvement within your community.**