31649, Stockton, Georgia Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 31649, Stockton, Georgia is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.07 percent of the residents in 31649 has some form of health insurance. 24.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.60 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 31649 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 154 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 31649. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 158 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,846 health care providers accessible to residents in 31649, Stockton, Georgia.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Stockton, GA (ZIP Code 31649)

Evaluating the overall health landscape within Stockton, Georgia (ZIP Code 31649) necessitates a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond just the presence of physicians. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, culminating in an overall health score assessment.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare system. Accurate data on this metric requires consistent updates from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and the Georgia Composite Medical Board, which can be difficult to obtain. However, we can infer from regional and national averages. Rural areas often struggle with physician shortages. Stockton, being a smaller community, likely faces challenges in attracting and retaining physicians. This could mean a lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urbanized areas.

Assessing standout practices involves examining the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the range of services offered. Identifying these practices requires reviewing patient reviews, analyzing accreditations, and evaluating the types of specializations available. Does Stockton have any practices affiliated with larger hospital systems? Are there any practices recognized for specific areas of expertise, such as diabetes management or geriatric care? The presence of such practices contributes positively to the overall health score. The availability of a diverse range of primary care physicians, including family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians, is crucial.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely. Examining the availability of telehealth services within Stockton is vital. Do local practices offer virtual consultations? Are they utilizing remote monitoring technologies? The level of telemedicine integration significantly impacts healthcare accessibility and convenience. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to innovation and patient-centered care, boosting the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a critical component of overall well-being. Assessing the availability of mental health services in Stockton requires investigating the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors. Are there any mental health clinics or support groups? Are mental health services integrated into primary care practices? The availability of these resources directly impacts the community's ability to address mental health concerns, which in turn influences the overall health score. The presence of resources for substance abuse treatment is also a key factor in this assessment.

The quality of healthcare infrastructure, including the availability of hospitals, urgent care centers, and pharmacies, is also important. Does Stockton have a hospital within a reasonable driving distance? Are there readily accessible pharmacies for prescription fulfillment? The presence of these facilities ensures that residents can receive timely and appropriate medical attention when needed. The efficiency and accessibility of these facilities contribute to the overall health score.

Considering all these factors, the overall health score for Stockton, GA (ZIP Code 31649) is likely to be moderate. The potential for a lower physician-to-patient ratio, common in rural areas, might pose challenges. The availability of telemedicine and mental health resources, along with the presence of well-regarded practices, could improve the score. The community's ability to attract and retain healthcare professionals, along with the investment in infrastructure, will significantly influence the overall health of the community.

The overall health score will depend on the specific data available. However, based on the factors discussed, Stockton’s score is likely to be somewhere in the average range, with potential for improvement through strategic investments in healthcare infrastructure, physician recruitment, and the expansion of telemedicine and mental health services. The community's dedication to these areas will shape the future health and well-being of its residents.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Stockton, GA (ZIP Code 31649), and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, hospital access, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more informed and data-driven assessment of the community's health profile.