18853, Wyalusing, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18853, Wyalusing, Pennsylvania is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.85 percent of the residents in 18853 has some form of health insurance. 39.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.56 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 18853 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 927 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18853. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 902 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 563 health care providers accessible to residents in 18853, Wyalusing, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Wyalusing, PA (ZIP Code 18853)

Assessing the overall health landscape of Wyalusing, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18853) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of medical professionals. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive “Overall Health Score” assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for potential improvement within the community.

The foundation of any robust healthcare system rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Wyalusing, the density of PCPs directly impacts the community's access to essential preventative care, chronic disease management, and overall health maintenance. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater number of residents per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised quality of care. Conversely, a favorable ratio, reflecting a higher concentration of PCPs relative to the population, suggests better access and potentially improved health outcomes.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 18853 necessitates gathering data on the total number of practicing PCPs and the population size. Publicly available data from the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from professional medical directories and local healthcare providers, can provide an initial estimate. However, a more accurate assessment would require information on the number of patients each physician actively sees, accounting for factors such as specialization, patient age demographics, and insurance coverage.

Beyond the raw physician-to-patient ratio, it is crucial to identify standout medical practices within Wyalusing. These practices may excel in various areas, such as patient satisfaction, specialized care offerings, or innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Identifying these practices requires analyzing patient reviews, surveying local healthcare professionals, and evaluating the availability of specific services. Practices offering comprehensive primary care, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and coordinated care with specialists, contribute significantly to the overall health score.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Wyalusing. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide convenient access to healthcare services, particularly for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those living in remote locations. The availability of telemedicine services, including the types of services offered and the ease of access, significantly impacts the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall health. The availability of mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, is a crucial factor in assessing the health landscape. Wyalusing's overall health score is influenced by the presence of mental health services, including the availability of individual and group therapy, medication management, and crisis intervention services. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services into primary care settings can improve access to care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

The overall health score for Wyalusing, PA (ZIP Code 18853) is a composite measure reflecting the combined influence of these factors. A high score would indicate a community with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, a strong presence of quality medical practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest limited access to care, potential challenges in meeting the healthcare needs of the population, and a need for targeted interventions to improve health outcomes.

To improve the overall health score, Wyalusing could focus on several key areas. Recruiting and retaining primary care physicians is essential, particularly in rural areas. Supporting and promoting telemedicine adoption can improve access to care and reduce healthcare disparities. Expanding mental health services, including integrating mental health professionals into primary care settings, can address the growing need for mental health support. Finally, promoting community health initiatives, such as health education programs and disease prevention campaigns, can empower residents to take control of their health.

The assessment of the health landscape within Wyalusing also needs to consider the broader context of the healthcare system. Factors such as insurance coverage, access to specialty care, and the overall economic health of the community can significantly impact health outcomes. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to address these challenges and create a healthier community.

The health score is not a static measure. It is dynamic and can change over time. Regular assessments, incorporating updated data and reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape, are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement. The overall health score serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders to understand the health needs of the population and to develop effective strategies to improve health outcomes.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wyalusing, PA (ZIP Code 18853), including the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and access to care, explore the power of mapping. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and informative way to visualize healthcare data, enabling you to identify areas with high and low access to care, understand the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, and analyze the impact of social determinants of health.