18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.84 percent of the residents in 18517 has some form of health insurance. 47.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.95 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 18517 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 960 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18517. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,054 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,981 health care providers accessible to residents in 18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for doctors within the 18517 ZIP code, focusing on primary care availability in Taylor, Pennsylvania. This evaluation considers various factors impacting patient access to care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the utilization of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The assessment aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of any health assessment is the availability of primary care physicians. In Taylor, determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This metric, often calculated by dividing the population by the number of primary care physicians, provides a preliminary understanding of access. A higher ratio indicates fewer doctors per patient, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau is necessary to accurately calculate this ratio. The analysis must consider the actual number of practicing physicians, accounting for retirements, relocations, and specialists who also provide some primary care services.

Identifying standout medical practices is another key component of the health score. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, incorporating innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. This involves assessing factors such as patient satisfaction scores, which can be found through online review platforms and patient surveys. The quality of care should be analyzed by evaluating the practice's adherence to evidence-based clinical guidelines, its management of chronic conditions, and its preventative care services. Practices with advanced certifications, such as those from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), may also be considered as standout examples. Furthermore, the presence of a multidisciplinary team, including physicians, nurses, and support staff, can contribute to a higher score.

The adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor in modern healthcare. Telemedicine expands access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The analysis must evaluate the extent to which doctors in the 18517 ZIP code and Taylor utilize telemedicine platforms. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring capabilities, and the use of digital tools for communication. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve patient convenience and reduce the burden on traditional healthcare facilities. The ease of access to telehealth services, including the availability of technical support and the integration of telemedicine platforms with electronic health records, is also essential.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health and well-being. The analysis must evaluate the availability of mental health services in the area. This includes assessing the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors available to patients. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services is also important. The integration of mental healthcare into primary care practices can improve access and coordination of care. The analysis should consider the availability of services for various age groups and populations, including children, adolescents, and those with specific mental health needs.

Evaluating the insurance acceptance rates of physicians and practices is also important. Healthcare access is significantly influenced by insurance coverage. The analysis should determine the types of insurance accepted by local doctors, including Medicare, Medicaid, and various private insurance plans. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans can provide greater access to care for a diverse patient population. Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may be uninsured or underinsured.

The physical infrastructure of healthcare facilities also contributes to the overall health score. The analysis should consider the condition and accessibility of medical offices, clinics, and hospitals in the area. Factors such as the availability of parking, wheelchair accessibility, and convenient public transportation options can impact patient access. Modern and well-equipped facilities can provide a more positive patient experience and contribute to better health outcomes. The presence of specialized equipment, such as diagnostic imaging machines, can also improve the quality of care.

The analysis must also consider the health outcomes of the population in the 18517 ZIP code and Taylor. This involves assessing key health indicators, such as life expectancy, infant mortality rates, and the prevalence of chronic diseases. Data from public health agencies and local health departments can provide valuable insights into the overall health of the community. The analysis should identify any disparities in health outcomes among different demographic groups and consider the factors that may contribute to these disparities.

The overall health score is not simply a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment based on multiple factors. The final score will be a reflection of the combined influence of all the factors discussed. The score should be presented with a clear explanation of the methodology used and the rationale behind the weighting of each factor. This transparency is crucial for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in the area. The score should be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare environment.

The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and it's essential to stay informed about the latest developments. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current state of healthcare in the 18517 ZIP code and Taylor. However, the availability of data and the specific details of the healthcare system can change. Continuous monitoring and analysis are necessary to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the health score. This ongoing assessment can help identify areas for improvement and inform efforts to enhance healthcare access and quality in the community.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 18517 and Taylor, including the locations of medical practices, hospitals, and other healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the geographic distribution of healthcare services and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.