18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania is 5 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.17 percent of the residents in 18847 has some form of health insurance. 49.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.67 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 18847 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,410 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18847. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,027 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 161 health care providers accessible to residents in 18847, Susquehanna, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: ZIP Code 18847 and Primary Care in Susquehanna County

Analyzing the overall health landscape within ZIP Code 18847 and the broader context of primary care availability in Susquehanna County requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into several key areas, including 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 overview, culminating in an actionable call to explore interactive mapping tools for further investigation.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on accessible primary care. In Susquehanna County, and specifically within ZIP Code 18847, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. This metric provides a snapshot of the potential burden on existing healthcare providers. A low ratio, indicating a high number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Determining the precise ratio for 18847 necessitates data collection from various sources, including state medical boards, hospital systems, and independent physician practices. This data needs to be cross-referenced with population figures for the ZIP Code to arrive at an accurate assessment. Public health agencies often provide this kind of information.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality and distribution of primary care practices are vital. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the range of services offered, and the integration of technology. Practices that consistently receive high marks for patient care, offer comprehensive services (including preventative care, chronic disease management, and minor urgent care), and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively are likely to be considered superior. Researching online reviews, consulting with local community members, and reviewing data from healthcare rating organizations are all valuable steps in identifying these practices.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant force in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas where geographic barriers can hinder access to care. The adoption of telemedicine within 18847 and Susquehanna County is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals are demonstrating a commitment to providing convenient and flexible care options. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining which practices offer these services, the types of services available via telemedicine, and the patient utilization rates. This data can be obtained through practice websites, direct inquiries, and potentially from regional healthcare networks.

Mental health resources are an integral component of overall health. The availability of mental health services within 18847 and Susquehanna County requires careful consideration. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, and support groups. Examining the number of mental health providers per capita, the types of services offered (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and the accessibility of these services (e.g., wait times, insurance acceptance) is essential. Furthermore, investigating the presence of community-based mental health programs and partnerships with local schools and organizations can paint a more complete picture of the mental health landscape. Local health departments and mental health advocacy groups are valuable resources for this kind of data.

Evaluating these factors collectively allows for the creation of an overall health score for ZIP Code 18847. The score would ideally reflect the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. Each of these areas would be weighted based on its relative importance, and the overall score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the health landscape. This score can then be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, guiding efforts to improve healthcare access and quality within the community.

However, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of any single score. A comprehensive analysis requires ongoing monitoring and adjustments as the healthcare landscape evolves. Factors such as changes in population demographics, the emergence of new technologies, and shifts in healthcare policy can all impact the overall health score. Regular updates and data analysis are essential to maintain the accuracy and relevance of the assessment.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the broader context of Susquehanna County. Rural areas often face unique challenges in healthcare, including workforce shortages, limited access to specialists, and transportation difficulties. Understanding these challenges is crucial for developing effective strategies to improve healthcare access and quality. Collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for addressing these challenges.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health of ZIP Code 18847 and primary care availability in Susquehanna County is a complex undertaking. It requires a thorough evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of medical practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. By considering these factors, a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape can be developed, allowing for informed decision-making and targeted interventions.

For a more detailed and interactive exploration of the healthcare landscape in 18847 and Susquehanna County, we encourage you to explore the mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for the visualization of healthcare data, including provider locations, service availability, and demographic information, offering a powerful tool for gaining deeper insights and making informed decisions.