18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.32 percent of the residents in 18634 has some form of health insurance. 43.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.64 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 18634 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,895 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18634. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,367 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,989 health care providers accessible to residents in 18634, Nanticoke, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Nanticoke, PA (ZIP Code 18634)

Analyzing the overall health score for Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, necessitates a multi-faceted examination of the healthcare landscape within the 18634 ZIP code. This involves scrutinizing the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio, evaluating the presence of standout medical practices, and investigating the adoption of telemedicine and the availability of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the health ecosystem, offering insights into its strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on the accessibility of primary care. This is particularly critical in Nanticoke, where the demographic makeup, including age distribution and socioeconomic factors, can influence healthcare needs. Assessing primary care availability involves considering the number of practicing physicians within the geographical area, their specialties, and their willingness to accept new patients. Limited access to primary care can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased emergency room visits, and poorer overall health outcomes.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio provides a quantitative measure of access. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can be utilized to determine the physician-to-population ratio within the 18634 ZIP code. This data should be compared to state and national averages to contextualize the local situation. A significantly higher ratio than the benchmarks could signal a shortage of primary care physicians, impacting the ability of residents to secure timely appointments and comprehensive care.

Identifying standout practices is crucial for understanding the quality of care available. This requires researching local medical groups, hospitals, and individual physicians. Factors to consider include the physicians' board certifications, their years of experience, patient satisfaction ratings (available through online reviews and surveys), and the range of services offered. Practices that embrace innovative approaches, such as patient-centered care models or integrated healthcare systems, often demonstrate a commitment to improving patient outcomes.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical element in assessing the health score. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and electronic health records, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Examining the extent to which local physicians and practices utilize telemedicine platforms provides insight into their willingness to embrace technology and their commitment to patient convenience. Widespread telemedicine adoption can improve the overall health score by reducing barriers to care and enhancing patient engagement.

Mental health resources are an integral part of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing the complex needs of the community. Assessing the presence of mental health clinics, counseling services, and support groups within the 18634 ZIP code provides insight into the community's capacity to address mental health concerns. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is crucial for integrated care and improved patient outcomes.

Furthermore, an analysis of the insurance landscape is necessary. The prevalence of different insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, can impact access to care. Physicians' acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs can influence the affordability of healthcare services. A community with a high percentage of uninsured or underinsured individuals may face greater barriers to accessing care, negatively impacting the overall health score.

The physical infrastructure of healthcare facilities also contributes to the overall health score. The presence of well-equipped hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialized clinics can enhance access to a wide range of medical services. Assessing the quality of these facilities, including their accreditation status, staffing levels, and technological capabilities, is important. Proximity to hospitals and specialized care centers is also a factor, particularly for residents with chronic conditions or those requiring emergency medical attention.

Community health initiatives and outreach programs play a vital role in promoting health and well-being. Assessing the presence of public health programs, such as vaccination campaigns, health screenings, and health education programs, can provide insight into the community's commitment to preventative care. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies is essential for implementing effective health initiatives.

The overall health score for Nanticoke, PA (18634) is a complex metric, reflecting the interplay of numerous factors. While a definitive numerical score is impossible without comprehensive data analysis, a qualitative assessment can be made based on the factors discussed. This assessment should be regularly updated to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Continuous monitoring of physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources is crucial.

The health score is not static; it is a dynamic reflection of the community's efforts to improve its well-being. By focusing on improving primary care access, enhancing telemedicine adoption, and bolstering mental health resources, Nanticoke can strive for a higher overall health score, ultimately leading to a healthier and more vibrant community. This requires ongoing collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Nanticoke and visualize the distribution of physicians, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can enhance the understanding of healthcare accessibility and identify potential areas for improvement.