18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 18818 has some form of health insurance. 38.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.47 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 18818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 248 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 230 health care providers accessible to residents in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Friendsville, PA (ZIP Code 18818)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Friendsville, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 18818 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers several key factors, including the availability and accessibility of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify areas of strength and weakness.

The cornerstone of a healthy community is readily available primary care. In Friendsville, the presence of primary care physicians is a critical determinant of the overall health score. A limited number of physicians, coupled with a geographically dispersed population, can create significant barriers to accessing timely and routine medical care. This, in turn, can lead to delayed diagnoses, preventable hospitalizations, and a decline in overall well-being.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a vital metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and a potential strain on existing healthcare resources. A low ratio, conversely, suggests a more accessible healthcare system, allowing for more personalized care and proactive health management. Specific data regarding the physician-to-patient ratio within the 18818 ZIP code is crucial for a precise evaluation. Publicly available data from the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) or state health departments would be primary sources for this critical statistic.

Identifying standout practices is essential. Some primary care practices may excel in patient care, offering extended hours, accepting a wide range of insurance plans, or providing specialized services. These practices can serve as models for other providers and contribute significantly to the overall health of the community. Investigating patient reviews, assessing the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management), and evaluating the practice’s commitment to patient education are all vital components of this assessment.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access healthcare services remotely. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring of chronic conditions, and access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The extent to which primary care practices in the 18818 ZIP code have embraced telemedicine is a significant factor in the overall health score. Assessing the availability of telehealth options, the types of services offered remotely, and the patient satisfaction with these services are all important.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is crucial for addressing mental health concerns. Access to these resources, including the availability of crisis intervention services and support groups, can significantly impact the well-being of the community. The presence of mental health providers within the 18818 ZIP code and the ease with which residents can access these services are key considerations.

The integration of these factors provides a holistic view of the healthcare landscape in Friendsville. A high overall health score would indicate a community with readily accessible primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and robust mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest challenges in accessing care, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes.

Assessing the quality of care is also important. Beyond the availability of physicians and resources, the quality of care provided must be considered. This includes evaluating the credentials of healthcare providers, the adherence to evidence-based practices, and the patient-centeredness of the care provided. Patient satisfaction surveys and the use of quality metrics can help assess the quality of care.

The demographics of the population also play a role. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases within the 18818 ZIP code can influence healthcare needs and resource allocation. Understanding the specific health challenges faced by the community is vital for developing effective strategies to improve the overall health score.

The presence of community health initiatives and partnerships is also important. Collaborations between healthcare providers, local organizations, and government agencies can improve access to care, promote health education, and address social determinants of health. The existence of such initiatives and their effectiveness in reaching the community can significantly impact the overall health score.

Furthermore, the impact of social determinants of health must be considered. Factors such as access to healthy food, safe housing, and transportation can significantly influence health outcomes. Addressing these social determinants is essential for improving the overall health of the community.

Finally, the long-term sustainability of the healthcare system is a vital consideration. This includes the availability of funding for healthcare services, the retention of healthcare professionals, and the ongoing development of healthcare infrastructure. Ensuring the sustainability of the healthcare system is crucial for maintaining a high overall health score over time.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score for residents of the 18818 ZIP code requires a comprehensive assessment. This involves evaluating primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the quality of care, the demographics of the population, community health initiatives, social determinants of health, and the long-term sustainability of the healthcare system. This multifaceted approach provides a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identifies areas where improvements can be made.