18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.17 percent of the residents in 18706 has some form of health insurance. 51.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.99 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 18706 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,622 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18706. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,080 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,835 health care providers accessible to residents in 18706, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

**Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18706 and Primary Care Availability in Wilkes-Barre**

Evaluating the overall health landscape within ZIP code 18706, encompassing a significant portion of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment, ultimately informing residents about the quality and accessibility of care.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. In 18706, the ratio fluctuates, influenced by factors like the concentration of specialists, the presence of large medical facilities, and the demographics of the population. Understanding the specific figures requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau. However, generally, the Wilkes-Barre area faces challenges in physician supply, particularly in primary care. This scarcity can strain the existing resources and necessitate innovative solutions to meet the community's needs.

Several medical practices within 18706 distinguish themselves through their commitment to patient care and innovative service delivery. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, often serves as a central hub, offering a wide range of specialties and advanced medical technologies. Its presence significantly impacts the overall health score, providing access to specialized care that might otherwise be unavailable. Other smaller, independent practices also contribute to the healthcare ecosystem, often specializing in specific areas or catering to particular patient populations. Assessing these practices requires evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the adoption of best practices in medical care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a critical component of healthcare delivery, particularly in areas with limited access to physical locations. Its adoption in 18706 is a crucial element in the overall health score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth services from local practices and larger healthcare systems like Geisinger directly impacts the accessibility of care. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption requires examining the types of services offered, the technology used, and the patient satisfaction with the telehealth experience.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical factor in overall health. Mental health concerns are prevalent, and access to timely and effective care is essential. In 18706, the presence of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is a key determinant of the health score. Assessing this requires evaluating the number of mental health providers, the types of services offered (therapy, medication management, etc.), and the availability of specialized programs for specific conditions. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care settings can significantly improve access and coordination of care. The presence of support groups, community mental health centers, and crisis intervention services also contributes to a more robust mental health ecosystem.

The overall health score for 18706 is not static; it is a dynamic measure that changes over time. Factors such as population growth, changes in healthcare policies, and advancements in medical technology all influence the score. The ongoing efforts to recruit and retain physicians, expand telemedicine services, and increase the availability of mental health resources are crucial to improving the health score and ensuring that residents have access to the care they need.

The primary care availability in Wilkes-Barre, as a whole, is a significant factor in the overall health score. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) acts as the gateway to the healthcare system. PCPs provide preventative care, diagnose and treat common illnesses, and coordinate care with specialists when necessary. Shortages of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, increased emergency room visits, and poorer health outcomes. Evaluating primary care availability requires examining the number of PCPs per capita, the wait times for appointments, and the geographic distribution of practices. Addressing the primary care shortage often involves initiatives to attract and retain physicians, expand training programs, and promote innovative models of care delivery, such as patient-centered medical homes.

Standout practices within the Wilkes-Barre area, including those within 18706, often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, technological innovation, and community outreach. These practices may implement electronic health records, offer online patient portals, and provide extended hours or weekend appointments to improve accessibility. They may also participate in community health initiatives, such as health screenings and educational programs, to address the specific health needs of the population. Identifying these standout practices requires reviewing patient reviews, assessing quality metrics, and evaluating the practices' commitment to innovation and patient satisfaction.

The integration of telemedicine into primary care practices is particularly important in Wilkes-Barre. Telemedicine can expand access to care, especially for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling to appointments. It can also improve communication between patients and their PCPs, allowing for more frequent check-ins and remote monitoring of chronic conditions. The adoption of telemedicine in primary care requires investment in technology, training for staff, and patient education. Successful implementation of telemedicine can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of primary care services.

The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting is another crucial element. Integrating mental health services into primary care can reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and improve access to care. This can involve co-locating mental health professionals within primary care practices, providing training for PCPs in mental health screening and treatment, and establishing referral pathways to specialized mental health services. This integrated approach can lead to earlier detection and treatment of mental health conditions, ultimately improving overall health outcomes.

The overall health score for Wilkes-Barre is a complex metric, influenced by a multitude of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play a significant role. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in 18706 and Wilkes-Barre, we encourage you to explore the data using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can visualize physician density, access to care, and other relevant health indicators, allowing you to explore the data in a dynamic and informative way.