18920, Erwinna, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18920, Erwinna, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18920 has some form of health insurance. 25.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 18920 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 74 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18920. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 67 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,037 health care providers accessible to residents in 18920, Erwinna, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Erwinna, PA (ZIP Code 18920)

Analyzing the overall health landscape of Erwinna, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18920) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the raw numbers of available physicians but also the quality of care, accessibility of services, and integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis will provide an 'Overall Health Score' assessment, considering various factors to give a comprehensive view of the healthcare environment.

The foundation of any healthy community rests on the availability of primary care physicians. In Erwinna, a rural area, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, Erwinna likely faces a challenge common to rural communities: a lower density of primary care physicians compared to more urbanized areas. This can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, delayed diagnoses. The distance to the nearest primary care provider is a significant factor. Residents may need to travel considerable distances to access care, impacting their ability to seek timely medical attention.

Beyond the sheer number of physicians, the quality of care is paramount. Assessing this involves examining factors like physician experience, board certifications, patient satisfaction scores, and the range of services offered. Some practices may stand out based on these criteria. For instance, a practice with a long-standing history in the community, staffed by experienced physicians and offering comprehensive services, would likely score higher. Conversely, practices with a high turnover rate or limited specialized services might receive a lower score. Patient reviews, though subjective, provide valuable insights into the patient experience, highlighting strengths and weaknesses of individual practices.

Telemedicine adoption represents a crucial element in modern healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural settings. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, receive follow-up care, and access specialist consultations without the need for extensive travel. The extent of telemedicine integration within Erwinna's healthcare ecosystem is a key indicator of its adaptability and commitment to patient convenience. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring, will likely contribute to a higher overall health score. The availability of reliable internet infrastructure is also a critical factor, as it is essential for the successful implementation of telemedicine services.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of overall well-being. The availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and mental health support services within Erwinna is vital. Access to these resources can significantly impact the community's health score. A lack of readily available mental health services can lead to untreated conditions, exacerbating existing health issues and impacting the overall quality of life. Assessing the availability of these resources involves examining the number of mental health professionals, the types of services offered (therapy, medication management, support groups), and the acceptance of insurance coverage.

Specialized care availability also contributes to the overall health assessment. While primary care forms the backbone, access to specialists like cardiologists, dermatologists, and endocrinologists is essential for comprehensive healthcare. Residents of Erwinna may need to travel to neighboring towns or cities to access specialized medical care. The distance and travel time to these specialists impact the overall health score. The availability of specialists in nearby areas and the ease of referral from primary care physicians are important considerations.

Another critical aspect is the presence of preventative care programs. These programs, such as regular screenings, vaccinations, and health education initiatives, play a vital role in maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. Practices that actively promote and offer preventative care services will positively impact the overall health score. The extent to which these programs are accessible and utilized by the community is a key indicator of their effectiveness.

The integration of technology in healthcare extends beyond telemedicine. Electronic health records (EHRs) streamline patient information, improve communication between providers, and enhance the accuracy of diagnoses and treatments. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively and provide patients with access to their medical records contribute to a higher health score. The use of patient portals, which allow patients to schedule appointments, communicate with their physicians, and access their medical information online, is another positive indicator.

Finally, community health initiatives and collaborations among healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government play a significant role in improving the overall health of a community. These initiatives may include health fairs, educational programs, and outreach efforts aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and addressing specific health concerns. The presence and effectiveness of these initiatives will positively impact the overall health score.

In conclusion, evaluating the overall health score of Erwinna, PA (ZIP code 18920) requires a comprehensive assessment of physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialized care access, preventative care programs, technological integration, and community health initiatives. While Erwinna, being a rural area, may face challenges in physician density, the adoption of telemedicine, the quality of care offered by standout practices, and the presence of strong community health initiatives can significantly impact the overall health score. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for developing strategies to improve healthcare access and quality for the residents of Erwinna.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Erwinna, including the location of healthcare providers, access to specialists, and other relevant data, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps.