18636, Noxen, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18636, Noxen, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.73 percent of the residents in 18636 has some form of health insurance. 42.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.08 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 18636 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 336 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18636. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 356 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,929 health care providers accessible to residents in 18636, Noxen, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Noxen, PA (ZIP Code 18636)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Noxen, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18636) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis goes beyond simple metrics, delving into physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and the crucial aspect of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ for the community, identifying strengths and weaknesses to inform residents and potential healthcare providers.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

A fundamental indicator of health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas like Noxen, this often presents a significant challenge. Determining the precise ratio requires data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and potentially local healthcare provider networks. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, necessitates longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of a healthy community. This includes family medicine, internal medicine, and potentially pediatric practices. Examining the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, or within a reasonable commuting distance, is critical. Are there enough providers to meet the needs of the population? Are appointments readily available, or are patients forced to travel long distances for basic medical care? This availability directly impacts the ‘Overall Health Score’.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. Reputation is key. Patient reviews, both online and through word-of-mouth, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall experience. Accreditation from organizations like the Joint Commission or the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) indicates a commitment to quality standards and patient safety.

The scope of services offered by each practice is also important. Does the practice offer a full range of primary care services, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and immunizations? Are there specialists available within the practice or through referral networks? The ability to provide comprehensive care locally significantly boosts the ‘Overall Health Score’.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Technological Integration:**

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural communities. Does the local healthcare infrastructure embrace telehealth? Are virtual appointments offered for routine check-ups, medication management, and specialist consultations? Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited transportation options.

Beyond telemedicine, the level of technological integration within practices is crucial. Do practices utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline patient information and improve communication between providers? Do they offer online portals for patients to schedule appointments, access medical records, and communicate with their healthcare team? Technological advancements contribute to efficiency and improved patient care.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being, often overlooked in rural communities. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within Noxen is essential. Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, or counselors practicing in the area? Are there support groups or community mental health programs available?

The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also a positive indicator. Does the practice screen for mental health conditions and offer referrals to mental health professionals? The accessibility and integration of mental health services directly impact the ‘Overall Health Score’ and the overall health of the community.

**Specific Considerations for Noxen:**

Given the rural nature of Noxen, specific challenges likely exist. Limited access to specialists, transportation difficulties, and the potential for a higher proportion of elderly residents are all factors that must be considered. The analysis should consider the demographics of the population and tailor its recommendations accordingly. The presence of a local hospital or clinic, and the services they offer, is also a critical factor.

**Calculating the ‘Overall Health Score’:**

The ‘Overall Health Score’ would be derived from a weighted average of the factors discussed above. Physician-to-patient ratio and primary care availability would carry significant weight. Quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources would also be weighted based on their importance. The final score would provide a comprehensive snapshot of the health landscape in Noxen, highlighting areas of strength and areas needing improvement.

**Conclusion:**

A thorough analysis of the healthcare landscape in Noxen, Pennsylvania, reveals a complex picture. While the specific ‘Overall Health Score’ can only be determined through detailed data collection and analysis, this framework provides a roadmap for evaluating the community's health resources. By examining physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health support, a comprehensive understanding of the community’s health profile can be developed.

**Call to Action:**

For a visually compelling and interactive representation of the healthcare landscape in Noxen, including physician locations, practice information, and demographic data, explore the power of spatial analysis. Consider utilizing CartoChrome maps to visualize this data and gain deeper insights into the community's health needs. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools to transform complex health data into actionable intelligence, improving access to care and driving positive change.