18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.53 percent of the residents in 18509 has some form of health insurance. 39.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.51 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 18509 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,928 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18509. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,124 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,015 health care providers accessible to residents in 18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18509)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Scranton, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on the 18509 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system rests on the availability of primary care physicians. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. In 18509, the ratio reflects the number of primary care doctors available to serve the population. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially more proactive healthcare management. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 18509 requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state medical boards. This ratio, compared to regional and national averages, is a primary factor in determining the overall health score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and reputation of primary care practices are crucial. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the use of technology. Practices that consistently receive high ratings, offer comprehensive care including preventative screenings and chronic disease management, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) are likely to contribute positively to the overall health score. Investigating online reviews, surveying local community members, and consulting with healthcare professionals can help identify these exemplary practices. The presence of board-certified physicians and specialists within a practice also enhances its value.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in modern healthcare, particularly in improving access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. The adoption rate of telemedicine services by primary care physicians in 18509 is a key indicator. Practices embracing telehealth, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to score higher. This adoption can improve patient convenience, reduce the burden on physical clinic spaces, and potentially lead to earlier intervention and improved health outcomes. The extent to which insurance providers cover telemedicine services in the area also impacts its accessibility and, consequently, the overall health score.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services in 18509 is crucial. This includes evaluating the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors available, as well as the presence of mental health clinics and support groups. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is particularly beneficial, as it allows for a more holistic approach to patient care. The accessibility of these resources, including insurance coverage and wait times for appointments, significantly influences the overall health score. Addressing mental health needs is a cornerstone of a healthy community.

To calculate the "Overall Health Score," each of these factors – physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability – must be weighted and scored. The weighting should reflect the relative importance of each factor. For instance, physician-to-patient ratio and the quality of primary care practices might be given higher weightings due to their fundamental impact on access to care. Telemedicine adoption could be weighted based on its contribution to access and convenience, while mental health resource availability should be weighted based on its impact on overall well-being.

The final score could be presented on a scale, such as a 1-10 scale, with 1 representing poor health resources and 10 representing excellent resources. The score should be accompanied by a brief summary of the strengths and weaknesses identified during the analysis. For example, a high score might reflect a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, high-quality primary care practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health services. Conversely, a low score might indicate a shortage of physicians, limited access to mental health care, and low telemedicine adoption.

It is important to note that this "Overall Health Score" is a snapshot in time and is subject to change. The healthcare landscape is dynamic, and factors such as population growth, changes in insurance coverage, and technological advancements can all impact the availability and quality of healthcare services. Regular reassessments are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

The analysis of healthcare resources in Scranton, PA (18509) reveals a complex picture. It is essential to consult with local healthcare providers and community organizations to gain a more nuanced understanding of the specific needs and challenges within the area. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the overall health of the community and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Scranton, PA (18509), consider exploring the use of interactive maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and informative way to visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points. This can provide a more comprehensive and accessible understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.