18623, Laceyville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18623, Laceyville, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.90 percent of the residents in 18623 has some form of health insurance. 44.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.08 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 18623 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 501 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18623. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 490 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 401 health care providers accessible to residents in 18623, Laceyville, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Laceyville, PA (ZIP Code 18623)

Laceyville, Pennsylvania, nestled within the rural embrace of Wyoming County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery. Assessing the overall health score for residents necessitates a multifaceted approach, evaluating not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, the adoption of modern technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis focuses on the specific context of ZIP Code 18623, striving to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem.

One of the most critical indicators of health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas like Laceyville, this ratio often presents a significant challenge. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures are difficult to obtain due to the dynamic nature of medical practices and patient populations, publicly available data and anecdotal evidence suggest a potential shortage of primary care physicians within the immediate vicinity. This means that patients may face longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to access care, and a greater reliance on emergency room services for non-emergency conditions. The impact of this shortage is particularly pronounced for elderly residents, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those lacking reliable transportation.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by the available physicians is paramount. Evaluating this requires examining factors such as board certifications, years of experience, patient satisfaction scores, and adherence to evidence-based medical practices. While publicly available data sources, such as physician profiles on insurance websites, can provide some insights, a comprehensive assessment necessitates a deeper dive into the specific practices operating within 18623. Identifying standout practices requires considering their commitment to patient-centered care, their integration of technology, and their participation in quality improvement initiatives.

The adoption of telemedicine represents a crucial element in expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The success of telemedicine adoption hinges on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet connectivity, the willingness of physicians to embrace the technology, and the patient's comfort level with virtual consultations. Assessing the telemedicine landscape in Laceyville requires evaluating the extent to which local practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services offered via telemedicine, and the patient satisfaction levels with these services.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall well-being, and their availability is particularly important in rural communities. Rural areas often face challenges in providing adequate mental health services due to factors such as a shortage of mental health professionals, stigma associated with mental illness, and limited access to transportation. Evaluating the mental health landscape in Laceyville necessitates assessing the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. It also involves examining the presence of mental health support groups, the availability of crisis intervention services, and the integration of mental health services into primary care practices.

Another crucial aspect of the overall health score is the availability of specialized medical services. While primary care physicians serve as the cornerstone of healthcare, access to specialists is essential for managing complex medical conditions. This includes access to cardiologists, neurologists, endocrinologists, and other specialists. Assessing the availability of specialized services in Laceyville requires evaluating the proximity of specialists, the referral pathways from primary care physicians, and the wait times for appointments.

Furthermore, the overall health score should consider the availability of preventative care services. These services, such as vaccinations, screenings, and health education programs, play a crucial role in preventing disease and promoting overall well-being. Evaluating the availability of preventative care services in Laceyville requires examining the extent to which local practices offer these services, the participation rates in screening programs, and the availability of health education resources.

The social determinants of health also play a significant role in shaping the overall health score. These determinants include factors such as socioeconomic status, education level, access to healthy food, housing quality, and environmental conditions. Addressing these social determinants requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies. Evaluating the impact of social determinants on the health of Laceyville residents requires analyzing data on poverty rates, food insecurity, housing conditions, and environmental hazards.

Finally, the overall health score should consider the level of community engagement in healthcare. This includes the participation of residents in health-related activities, the involvement of community organizations in healthcare initiatives, and the level of communication between healthcare providers and the community. Assessing community engagement requires evaluating the presence of community health workers, the participation rates in health-related events, and the level of satisfaction with healthcare services.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Laceyville, PA (ZIP Code 18623) is a complex undertaking that requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. While challenges exist, particularly in terms of physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialized services, the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources offer opportunities for improvement. A focus on preventative care, addressing social determinants of health, and fostering community engagement will be crucial in enhancing the overall health and well-being of Laceyville residents.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Laceyville and its surrounding areas, including the location of medical facilities, physician specialties, and service availability, explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Gain valuable insights and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.