18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.44 percent of the residents in 18702 has some form of health insurance. 45.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.29 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 18702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,062 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18702. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,408 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,893 health care providers accessible to residents in 18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

The health landscape of Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 18702 ZIP code, presents a complex tapestry of healthcare access and quality. An “Overall Health Score” analysis, considering factors like physician availability, practice quality, and resource accessibility, reveals a nuanced picture. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas ripe for improvement.

One of the primary concerns is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, the 18702 area, and indeed much of Luzerne County, often faces a shortage of primary care physicians. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, difficulty establishing a consistent doctor-patient relationship, and potential delays in preventative care. The impact is felt particularly by vulnerable populations, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with chronic health conditions.

The availability of primary care is crucial. It serves as the foundation of a healthy community. It's the first line of defense against illness and the gateway to specialized care when needed. The existing primary care practices within 18702 vary in their capacity and offerings. Some practices are well-established, boasting experienced physicians and a long history of serving the community. Others are newer, or perhaps smaller, and may face challenges in attracting and retaining staff.

Identifying standout practices is essential. These are the healthcare providers that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovative approaches, and a commitment to community well-being. Assessing this involves looking at factors like patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, the integration of technology, and the practice's overall reputation. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and actively participate in community health initiatives often stand out.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth, and its continued use can significantly improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in remote areas. The extent to which practices in 18702 have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, directly impacts the overall health score. Practices that have successfully integrated telehealth into their operations are better positioned to serve a wider patient base and provide more timely care.

Mental health resources are a significant component of overall health. The availability of mental health services, including psychiatrists, therapists, and counseling centers, is crucial for addressing the growing prevalence of mental health issues. The 18702 area's mental health infrastructure must be assessed. This involves evaluating the number of providers, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., insurance acceptance, wait times, location). Communities with robust mental health resources tend to have better overall health outcomes.

Beyond the direct provision of healthcare, the presence of supporting resources also impacts the overall health score. This includes the availability of pharmacies, diagnostic imaging centers, and specialized medical services. The proximity of these resources, their operating hours, and their ability to accommodate patients with diverse needs all contribute to the ease of accessing care.

The quality of care is not solely determined by the presence of doctors and resources. It's also about the quality of the care provided. This involves assessing the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the use of evidence-based practices, and the practice's commitment to continuous improvement. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, track patient outcomes, and seek feedback from patients are more likely to provide high-quality care.

Addressing health disparities is another important consideration. The 18702 area, like many communities, may have health disparities based on factors like socioeconomic status, race, and ethnicity. Practices that are committed to addressing these disparities, providing culturally competent care, and reaching out to underserved populations contribute to a higher overall health score.

Another factor to consider is the integration of technology. Electronic health records (EHRs) are now commonplace, but the extent to which practices utilize their EHRs to improve patient care varies. Practices that leverage their EHRs to streamline workflows, share information with other providers, and provide patients with access to their health information are often more efficient and effective.

The overall health score for 18702 is not static. It’s a dynamic measure that reflects the ongoing efforts of healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers. Regular assessments are needed to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that the community has access to the high-quality healthcare it deserves. The score is a reflection of the collective effort to create a healthier community.

The analysis also considers the role of community health initiatives. These initiatives, often spearheaded by local organizations, aim to address specific health needs within the community. Examples include programs focused on diabetes prevention, smoking cessation, and substance abuse treatment. The presence and effectiveness of these initiatives contribute to the overall health score.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for doctors in the 18702 ZIP code and the availability of primary care in Wilkes Barre is a complex metric. It reflects the interplay of physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community initiatives. While there are areas for improvement, there are also dedicated healthcare providers and community organizations working to improve the health and well-being of the residents.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in 18702 and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform provides detailed visualizations and allows for a more granular analysis of healthcare access within the Wilkes Barre area.