18505, Scranton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18505, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.78 percent of the residents in 18505 has some form of health insurance. 50.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.36 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 18505 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,645 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18505. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,717 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,035 health care providers accessible to residents in 18505, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18505)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Scranton, Pennsylvania's 18505 ZIP code necessitates a multifaceted evaluation, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis delves into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the accessibility of mental health resources. We aim to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, painting a picture of the community's health infrastructure and its capacity to serve its residents.

The foundation of any health assessment rests upon the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In 18505, the density of PCPs directly impacts access to preventative care, chronic disease management, and overall well-being. While a precise physician-to-patient ratio requires up-to-the-minute data, publicly available resources and professional directories provide a general indication. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can indicate potential strain on the system, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. The specific ratio for 18505 needs to be continually monitored to accurately gauge the community's access to foundational healthcare.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality and reputation of local medical practices are crucial. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices with a strong reputation often demonstrate excellence in patient communication, efficient appointment scheduling, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest medical advancements. These practices serve as anchors within the community, providing a higher standard of care and potentially influencing the overall health score positively.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in healthcare delivery, particularly in recent years. Its adoption rate within 18505 directly affects access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or geographic constraints. Practices that embrace telemedicine offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other digital health services. This expands the reach of healthcare providers, allowing for more frequent check-ins and potentially preventing the escalation of health issues. The level of telemedicine integration significantly impacts the overall health score, reflecting the community's ability to leverage technology to improve healthcare accessibility.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health support services within 18505 is a key factor in assessing the community's health. Adequate access to mental healthcare can help manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions, contributing to improved physical health and overall quality of life. Analyzing the density of mental health providers, the availability of support groups, and the integration of mental health services within primary care settings provides a comprehensive picture of the community's mental health infrastructure.

The interplay of these factors determines the overall health score. A community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, highly-rated practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and ample mental health resources will likely receive a higher score. Conversely, a community facing shortages in primary care, limited telemedicine options, and inadequate mental health support will likely receive a lower score. This score serves as a snapshot of the current health landscape, highlighting areas of strength and areas that require attention and investment.

Further analysis would involve examining specific metrics within each category. For example, patient satisfaction scores can be aggregated to assess the quality of care. Telemedicine adoption rates can be measured by the percentage of practices offering virtual consultations. Mental health resource availability can be quantified by the number of providers per capita. These detailed metrics provide a more granular understanding of the community's health challenges and opportunities.

The overall health score is not a static number. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. New practices opening, telemedicine adoption increasing, and mental health services expanding all have the potential to improve the score. Conversely, physician shortages or the closure of mental health facilities could negatively impact the score. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for tracking progress and identifying areas where further investment is needed.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and actionable assessment of the healthcare environment in 18505. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers can work together to improve the health and well-being of the community. This includes advocating for policies that support healthcare access, promoting the adoption of innovative technologies, and investing in mental health services.

The findings of this analysis can inform strategic planning and resource allocation, ensuring that the community has the resources it needs to thrive. This includes identifying areas where additional healthcare providers are needed, supporting initiatives that promote preventative care, and expanding access to mental health services. The overall health score serves as a valuable tool for measuring progress and driving positive change.

This assessment, while informative, is a starting point. For a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the precise locations of physicians, hospitals, and mental health facilities, consider utilizing the powerful mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their interactive maps allow for a detailed visualization of the healthcare landscape, providing valuable insights for both individuals and healthcare professionals.