18834, New Milford, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18834, New Milford, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.33 percent of the residents in 18834 has some form of health insurance. 43.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.92 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 18834 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 695 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18834. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 724 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 161 health care providers accessible to residents in 18834, New Milford, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18834 & Primary Care Availability in New Milford

Evaluating the overall health landscape within ZIP code 18834, encompassing the town of New Milford, Pennsylvania, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

The foundation of any health assessment rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In New Milford, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a more accessible healthcare system. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau will be crucial in determining this ratio. This data will be cross-referenced with information on physician distribution within the ZIP code, considering factors like age, specialization, and insurance acceptance.

Standout medical practices in the area contribute significantly to the overall health score. Identifying practices with excellent reputations, high patient satisfaction scores, and a commitment to quality care is vital. Factors to consider include the range of services offered (e.g., internal medicine, pediatrics, women’s health), the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for streamlined care, and the availability of on-site diagnostic services. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in community health initiatives and prioritize patient education will be viewed favorably. Patient reviews, physician ratings, and accreditation status will be carefully considered in this evaluation.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of the health score. The ability to access healthcare remotely has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals are demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The extent to which these technologies are integrated into the practices' workflow and the types of services offered via telemedicine will be assessed. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual appointments for primary care, specialist consultations, and follow-up care.

Access to mental health resources is a critical component of overall health. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the ZIP code is essential. This includes assessing the number of mental health professionals, their areas of specialization, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. Furthermore, the presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services will be examined. The integration of mental healthcare into primary care practices, such as the availability of behavioral health specialists, will also be considered. The overall goal is to determine whether residents have adequate access to mental health services to address their needs.

The availability of specialized care within or near ZIP code 18834 also impacts the overall health score. While primary care forms the foundation, access to specialists like cardiologists, endocrinologists, and dermatologists is crucial for managing chronic conditions and addressing complex health issues. The proximity to specialty hospitals and the ease of referral processes from primary care physicians will be considered. The availability of specialized services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy will also be factored in, especially for patients recovering from illness or injury.

Beyond physician availability, the overall health score also considers the social determinants of health. These are non-medical factors that influence health outcomes, such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, housing quality, and educational attainment. While these factors are not directly controlled by healthcare providers, they significantly impact a community's health. Data from the US Census Bureau, the County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, and local community organizations will be utilized to assess these factors and their potential impact on the overall health score.

The infrastructure supporting healthcare delivery is also important. This includes the availability of urgent care centers, pharmacies, and hospitals within a reasonable distance. The presence of emergency medical services (EMS) and their response times are also crucial. The accessibility of transportation to healthcare facilities, especially for individuals without personal vehicles, will be considered. The overall goal is to determine whether residents have access to a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem.

The insurance landscape also plays a significant role. The percentage of the population with health insurance coverage, the types of insurance plans accepted by local providers, and the affordability of healthcare services are all critical factors. Data from the US Census Bureau and local healthcare providers will be used to assess insurance coverage rates and the availability of financial assistance programs. The goal is to determine whether residents have access to affordable healthcare.

The analysis will also consider the availability of public health programs and initiatives. This includes programs focused on preventative care, chronic disease management, and health education. The presence of local health departments and their activities, such as flu shot clinics and health screenings, will be examined. The goal is to determine whether the community has access to resources that promote preventative care and overall wellness.

Finally, the overall health score for ZIP code 18834 will be a composite measure, incorporating all the factors discussed above. Each factor will be weighted based on its relative importance, and the final score will reflect the overall health of the community. This score will be presented in a clear and concise manner, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. The ultimate goal is to provide a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, enabling them to make informed decisions and work towards improving the health of the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 18834, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping platform provides a visually rich and detailed overview of healthcare resources, enabling you to make informed decisions about your health and the health of your community.