18942, Ottsville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18942, Ottsville, Pennsylvania is 90 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.87 percent of the residents in 18942 has some form of health insurance. 44.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.25 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 18942 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 242 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18942. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 985 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,014 health care providers accessible to residents in 18942, Ottsville, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Ottsville, PA (ZIP Code 18942)

Ottsville, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 18942 ZIP code, presents a unique microcosm for evaluating healthcare accessibility and quality. Assessing the overall health score necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond the mere presence of physicians. This analysis delves into the physician-to-patient ratio, highlights standout practices, examines telemedicine adoption, and assesses the availability of mental health resources, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographic area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. While precise figures fluctuate based on data availability and the dynamic nature of medical practices, an estimation based on available resources is possible. Researching the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 18942 ZIP code, and comparing it to the estimated population of Ottsville, provides a preliminary understanding. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. However, this is just the beginning. The ratio alone doesn't account for factors like physician specialization, patient demographics (age, chronic conditions), or insurance coverage, all of which impact the true accessibility of care.

Several primary care practices serve the Ottsville area. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating a range of criteria. Patient reviews, readily available online, offer insights into patient satisfaction, wait times, and the overall patient experience. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), signifies adherence to quality standards and best practices. Practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments further enhance accessibility. Furthermore, the presence of specialized services, such as on-site lab testing or chronic disease management programs, can significantly improve the quality of care. Researching the specific services offered by each practice, and comparing them based on these criteria, helps identify those that excel in patient care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to overcome geographical barriers, providing access to healthcare services for patients who may face challenges traveling to a physical office. Assessing telemedicine adoption within the 18942 ZIP code involves determining which practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or other telehealth services. Factors to consider include the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., primary care, specialist consultations, mental health), the technology used (e.g., secure video platforms, remote monitoring devices), and the availability of technical support for patients. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine, and offer a range of telehealth services, are likely to improve access to care and patient convenience.

Mental health resources are a crucial component of overall health. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Ottsville requires identifying local psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. This involves researching mental health professionals practicing within the 18942 ZIP code, and determining the types of services they offer (e.g., individual therapy, group therapy, medication management). Beyond individual practitioners, the presence of community mental health centers, support groups, and crisis intervention services is also important. The availability of mental health resources, and the ease with which patients can access them, significantly impacts the overall health and well-being of the community.

Data from the local hospitals, if any, located in Ottsville, or the surrounding areas, can also provide valuable insights. Analyzing hospital data, such as the number of emergency room visits, hospital readmission rates, and the types of medical conditions treated, can offer a broader perspective on the health needs of the community. This information can help identify areas where healthcare services may be lacking, or where specific health issues are prevalent.

In conclusion, determining an overall health score for doctors in the 18942 ZIP code and primary care availability in Ottsville is a complex process. It requires a thorough evaluation of the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality and accessibility of primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. By considering these factors, a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape can be achieved. The ultimate goal is to identify strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare system, and to inform strategies for improving access to care and promoting the overall health and well-being of the community.

This analysis is based on publicly available information. For a more detailed and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ottsville, PA, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.