19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania is 97 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.39 percent of the residents in 19033 has some form of health insurance. 22.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.25 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 19033 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,839 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19033. An estimate of 40 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,018 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 33,136 health care providers accessible to residents in 19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Folsom, PA (ZIP Code 19033)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Folsom, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19033) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the quantity of healthcare providers but also the quality of care, accessibility, and the availability of crucial support services. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering key indicators and offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem. We will focus on the availability of primary care physicians, their distribution, and the integration of modern healthcare practices.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability**

A fundamental metric in assessing health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Folsom, the ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) to the population is a critical factor. Accurate data on this ratio requires continuous monitoring, as physician numbers can fluctuate. Publicly available data, supplemented by information from local healthcare networks, is essential to establish a baseline. A low ratio, meaning a smaller number of PCPs serving a larger population, can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely care. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing physicians. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, potentially leading to improved health outcomes.

The distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is another crucial aspect. Are physicians concentrated in certain areas, leaving others underserved? Examining the geographic distribution of practices helps identify potential "healthcare deserts" – areas where access to care is limited. This analysis needs to consider factors like transportation options and the presence of community health centers, which often play a vital role in bridging access gaps.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care**

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This includes examining patient satisfaction scores, which can be gleaned from online reviews and patient surveys. Accreditation status, such as that provided by the Joint Commission or other recognized bodies, is another indicator of quality. Practices that have earned these accreditations often demonstrate a commitment to rigorous standards of care and patient safety.

Furthermore, the adoption of evidence-based practices is crucial. This involves assessing whether practices are up-to-date with the latest medical guidelines and treatment protocols. Analyzing the use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also important. EHRs can improve care coordination, reduce medical errors, and facilitate better communication between providers and patients. Practices that have successfully integrated EHRs often demonstrate a commitment to technological advancement and improved patient outcomes.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact**

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant factor in healthcare accessibility, especially in areas with limited physical access to care. Evaluating telemedicine adoption in Folsom involves assessing the number of practices offering virtual consultations, the types of services available via telemedicine (e.g., primary care, specialist consultations, mental health services), and the ease of use for patients.

Successful telemedicine implementation can significantly improve access to care, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations, those living in remote areas, or those with busy schedules. It can also reduce the burden on emergency rooms and urgent care facilities. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on factors such as internet access, digital literacy, and the availability of appropriate technology for both patients and providers.

**Mental Health Resources: A Critical Component**

Mental health services are an integral part of overall health. The availability and accessibility of mental health resources in Folsom are essential components of the "Overall Health Score." This involves evaluating the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors practicing in the area. Are there sufficient mental health providers to meet the needs of the population?

Furthermore, it's critical to assess the availability of specialized mental health services, such as those for children and adolescents, individuals with substance use disorders, and those with severe mental illnesses. The presence of support groups, crisis intervention services, and community mental health centers is also a key factor. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can also improve access and reduce stigma.

**Overall Health Score: Synthesis and Assessment**

Synthesizing all these factors – physician-to-patient ratios, the distribution of PCPs, the quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources – allows for the formulation of an "Overall Health Score" for Folsom (ZIP Code 19033). This score, ideally, would be expressed on a numerical scale, with higher scores indicating a healthier healthcare environment.

The analysis would identify strengths, such as practices with high patient satisfaction or the successful integration of telemedicine. It would also highlight weaknesses, such as a low physician-to-patient ratio, limited access to mental health services, or a lack of telemedicine options.

This "Overall Health Score" should be considered a dynamic assessment, subject to change as the healthcare landscape evolves. Continuous monitoring, data collection, and analysis are essential to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that residents of Folsom have access to the quality healthcare they deserve. The score can be used by local healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively.

**Conclusion: Visualizing Healthcare Data with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Folsom and visualize the data discussed above, consider exploring the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's mapping tools can help you identify areas with high or low physician density, pinpoint the locations of specialized healthcare services, and analyze the geographic distribution of health disparities. By using CartoChrome's maps, you can gain a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment in Folsom and make informed decisions to improve the health and well-being of the community.