18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.42 percent of the residents in 18817 has some form of health insurance. 38.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.36 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 18817 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 38 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18817. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 18 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,888 health care providers accessible to residents in 18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: East Smithfield (18817)

This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' assessment for the East Smithfield, PA (ZIP code 18817) area, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the accessibility of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape within this specific community.

The overall health score for East Smithfield, 18817, is best described as **moderate with areas for improvement**. The community benefits from some dedicated healthcare professionals, but faces challenges related to access, particularly in specialized areas and mental health. The geographic remoteness of East Smithfield, typical of rural areas, plays a significant role in shaping the healthcare environment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio in East Smithfield requires a multifaceted approach, drawing on data from various sources. Publicly available data from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can offer general estimates for the county (Bradford County) in which East Smithfield is located. However, such county-level data often masks the specific realities within a smaller ZIP code.

The most reliable method involves cross-referencing data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, local hospital systems (e.g., Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital), and potentially, private healthcare databases. A reasonable estimate, based on available information, suggests a physician-to-patient ratio in East Smithfield that likely falls below the national average, indicating a potential shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity can translate into longer wait times for appointments and increased difficulty in securing timely care.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several factors: patient reviews, physician credentials, range of services offered, and the practice's integration of technology. While specific practice names require a more in-depth investigation, general observations can be made. Practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, like Guthrie, often possess greater resources, including access to specialists and advanced diagnostic equipment. These practices often demonstrate higher scores in patient satisfaction surveys.

The presence of board-certified physicians, particularly in family medicine and internal medicine, is a positive indicator of quality. Practices that offer a broad spectrum of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and basic laboratory services, are also highly valued. Furthermore, practices actively embracing electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals often enhance efficiency and improve communication.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access in rural areas like East Smithfield. Telemedicine provides a vital bridge, connecting patients with healthcare providers remotely, mitigating the impact of geographical barriers. The level of telemedicine adoption within the area is moderate.

Many practices, especially those affiliated with larger healthcare systems, have begun to offer telehealth appointments, particularly for follow-up visits, medication management, and mental health consultations. The availability of reliable internet access is a significant determinant of telemedicine utilization. Areas with limited broadband connectivity may experience reduced access to these virtual healthcare services.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health, and their availability in East Smithfield requires careful examination. The presence of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed professional counselors (LPCs), and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), is essential.

Access to these resources can be challenging in rural areas. The availability of local mental health clinics, support groups, and partnerships with hospitals is essential. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings is also a positive sign, as it allows for early detection and intervention. The availability of mental health services in East Smithfield appears to be limited, with a reliance on services offered in neighboring towns or counties. This scarcity necessitates a focus on improving access to mental healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for East Smithfield, 18817, is moderate, with notable strengths in certain areas, but significant challenges remain. The physician-to-patient ratio likely falls below the national average, suggesting potential difficulties in accessing timely primary care. Telemedicine adoption is growing, but its effectiveness is limited by internet access. Mental health resources appear to be limited, requiring attention and investment.

The community would benefit from initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining healthcare professionals, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and increasing the availability of mental health services. This includes exploring partnerships with larger healthcare systems, promoting telehealth infrastructure, and investing in community-based mental health programs.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in East Smithfield, including specific practice locations, physician specialties, and access to resources, we recommend utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing for a geographically informed analysis of healthcare access and availability. Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a clearer picture of the healthcare environment in East Smithfield and to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.