18640, Pittston, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18640, Pittston, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.73 percent of the residents in 18640 has some form of health insurance. 46.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.40 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 18640 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,699 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18640. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,816 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,076 health care providers accessible to residents in 18640, Pittston, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Pittston, PA (ZIP Code 18640)

Assessing the overall health landscape within Pittston, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18640) requires a multifaceted approach, considering various factors influencing resident well-being. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care, specifically evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Based on available data and public information, a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ is derived, providing insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a crucial indicator of access to care. A lower ratio generally signifies better access, allowing for more individualized attention and potentially shorter wait times. While precise, real-time data on physician distribution within a specific ZIP code can be difficult to obtain, publicly available sources such as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health offer valuable insights. These sources, combined with local hospital and clinic information, provide a framework for estimating the ratio. Pittston, being a smaller community, might face challenges in achieving the ideal physician-to-patient ratio compared to larger metropolitan areas. The presence of nearby hospitals and medical centers, such as those in Scranton or Wilkes-Barre, could partially offset this by providing access to specialists and a wider range of services. However, the reliance on external resources also introduces potential barriers, such as transportation challenges and increased travel times for appointments.

Identifying standout primary care practices involves evaluating several criteria, including patient reviews, the range of services offered, the adoption of technology, and the integration of preventative care. Practices that actively embrace electronic health records (EHRs), offer online patient portals, and facilitate communication via telehealth platforms are often considered more patient-centric. Furthermore, practices that emphasize preventative care, such as regular check-ups, screenings, and health education programs, contribute significantly to improved overall health outcomes. Researching local physician directories, online review platforms (e.g., Healthgrades, Vitals), and hospital websites can help pinpoint practices that consistently receive positive feedback and demonstrate a commitment to quality care. Examining the accreditation status of local hospitals and clinics is also important.

Telemedicine adoption represents a key area of focus, particularly in the context of rural or underserved communities. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telehealth services for primary care, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and prescription refills, can significantly enhance convenience and patient adherence to treatment plans. Assessing the adoption rate of telemedicine within Pittston involves investigating the telehealth capabilities of local primary care practices, hospitals, and clinics. This includes evaluating the types of telehealth services offered, the availability of virtual appointments, and the integration of telehealth platforms with existing patient care workflows.

The integration of mental health resources is paramount for overall well-being. Primary care providers often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health concerns. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through referrals to mental health specialists is crucial. This involves evaluating the presence of on-site mental health professionals, the availability of mental health screenings, and the ease of access to mental health counseling and therapy services. Examining the collaboration between primary care practices and local mental health organizations, such as the Luzerne County Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities Office, can provide insights into the level of integration and coordination of care.

Based on the factors discussed, the ‘Overall Health Score’ for Pittston (ZIP Code 18640) can be tentatively assessed. The score, while not a precise numerical value due to data limitations, reflects the overall health landscape. The physician-to-patient ratio is likely a moderate challenge, with the potential for improvement through recruitment efforts and regional collaboration. Standout practices, identified through patient reviews and service offerings, contribute positively to the score. Telemedicine adoption is an area for growth, with the potential to significantly improve access to care. The integration of mental health resources, while present, could benefit from further enhancement and collaboration.

Ultimately, the ‘Overall Health Score’ for Pittston reflects a community with strengths and areas for improvement. While access to primary care may present some challenges, the presence of dedicated practices and the potential for telemedicine expansion offer opportunities to enhance the health and well-being of residents. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio, promoting telemedicine adoption, and strengthening the integration of mental health resources will be critical steps in improving the overall health score.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pittston and surrounding areas, including the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and population demographics, consider exploring interactive mapping tools like CartoChrome maps. These tools can provide a visual representation of the data, facilitating a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the community.