18628, Lopez, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18628, Lopez, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.47 percent of the residents in 18628 has some form of health insurance. 45.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.82 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 18628 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 49 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18628. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 54 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 360 health care providers accessible to residents in 18628, Lopez, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18628 and Primary Care Availability in Lopez

This analysis provides an assessment of the overall health landscape for residents of ZIP Code 18628, with a specific focus on primary care availability within the town of Lopez. We will delve into various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment and identify areas of strength and weakness.

Evaluating the healthcare ecosystem in a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. Simply counting the number of physicians is insufficient; we must consider the distribution of those physicians, their specialties, and the overall demand for healthcare services.

One of the most critical metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio reveals the availability of medical professionals relative to the population. A low ratio, indicating a high number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially decreased access to preventative care. Conversely, a high ratio suggests a more favorable environment, with greater physician availability and potentially improved patient outcomes. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio for 18628 requires accessing specific data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar sources. This data would need to be compared against national or state averages to contextualize the findings.

Within the town of Lopez, the availability of primary care physicians is paramount. Primary care serves as the gateway to the healthcare system, providing essential preventative care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating referrals to specialists. The presence of a robust primary care network is crucial for the overall health and well-being of the community. Assessing primary care availability involves identifying the number of family physicians, general practitioners, and internal medicine specialists practicing within Lopez and the surrounding areas. This information can be gathered through online directories, insurance provider networks, and local community resources.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by medical practices is equally important. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors, including patient reviews, accreditations, and the adoption of advanced technologies. Practices with positive patient feedback, a commitment to quality improvement, and a willingness to embrace innovation are more likely to deliver superior care. Information about the practice’s use of electronic health records (EHRs), patient portals, and other technologies can also provide insights into its commitment to patient-centered care.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical aspect of healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine, which involves the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, can be particularly beneficial in rural areas like Lopez, where geographic barriers may limit access to care. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine in 18628 involves identifying which practices offer telehealth services, the types of services offered, and the availability of technology to support telemedicine visits.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall well-being. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing mental health needs within the community. Assessing mental health resources involves identifying the number of mental health providers practicing in the area, the types of services they offer, and the availability of support groups and other community resources. Furthermore, the integration of mental healthcare into primary care settings can improve access to mental health services and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help.

A comprehensive analysis of the healthcare landscape in 18628 and Lopez must also consider the demographic characteristics of the population. Factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can significantly impact healthcare needs. Understanding the specific health challenges faced by the community is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet those needs effectively.

Furthermore, the insurance coverage landscape plays a significant role in healthcare accessibility. The percentage of residents with health insurance, the types of insurance plans available, and the affordability of healthcare services all impact the ability of individuals to access the care they need. Analyzing insurance coverage data is essential for identifying potential barriers to care and developing strategies to improve access for all residents.

In summary, the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 18628 and primary care availability in Lopez is determined by a complex interplay of factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and demographic characteristics all contribute to the overall health landscape.

Gathering this data and analyzing it requires diligent research and access to reliable sources of information. The Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and local community organizations are valuable resources for obtaining the necessary data.

This analysis is a starting point for understanding the healthcare environment in 18628 and Lopez. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential for identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that residents have access to the high-quality healthcare they deserve.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 18628 and Lopez, including visual representations of physician distribution, access to care, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual overview of the healthcare environment, enabling you to identify areas of strength and weakness and make informed decisions about your health.