15135, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15135, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania is 94 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.90 percent of the residents in 15135 has some form of health insurance. 33.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.55 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 15135 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 966 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 28 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15135. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,000 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,390 health care providers accessible to residents in 15135, Mckeesport, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15135 and Primary Care Availability in McKeesport

Evaluating the overall health landscape within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach, considering various factors that contribute to the well-being of its residents. This analysis focuses on two key areas: the availability and quality of primary care physicians in ZIP code 15135 and the broader context of primary care accessibility within the city of McKeesport. We will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the availability of mental health resources to arrive at an overall health score.

ZIP code 15135, encompassing the borough of West Mifflin, presents a unique demographic profile, influencing the demand for and accessibility of healthcare services. One crucial metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Accurately determining this ratio necessitates up-to-date data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and local healthcare provider directories. Publicly available data often lags, making real-time assessment challenging. However, analyzing the number of primary care physicians listed within the zip code, coupled with the estimated population, offers an initial approximation. Further research should incorporate physician specialties and patient panels to refine the understanding of available care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating factors such as patient satisfaction, physician experience, and the range of services offered. Online review platforms, such as Healthgrades and Vitals, provide patient feedback. However, it is essential to critically assess this information, considering potential biases and the limitations of self-reported data. Furthermore, practices with accreditations from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) often demonstrate a commitment to quality standards. Analyzing the services offered, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized programs, provides a more comprehensive picture of a practice's capabilities.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, offering patients remote access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and even mental health services. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves examining the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the technological infrastructure in place. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. The integration of telehealth with electronic health records (EHRs) enhances the efficiency and coordination of care.

The availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of overall health. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Therefore, assessing the availability of mental health services within primary care practices is essential. This includes evaluating the presence of on-site mental health professionals, partnerships with mental health providers, and the availability of mental health screenings and referrals. The broader availability of mental health services in the community, such as outpatient clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services, also impacts the overall health score.

Moving beyond the specific ZIP code, the analysis extends to the broader context of primary care availability in McKeesport. McKeesport, a city with a history of economic challenges, may face unique healthcare access barriers. The physician-to-patient ratio across the entire city needs assessment. This involves considering the distribution of physicians throughout the city and identifying any areas with limited access to care. Transportation challenges, socioeconomic factors, and insurance coverage also influence healthcare access.

The presence of hospitals and other healthcare facilities within McKeesport significantly impacts the availability of primary care. Hospitals often have affiliated primary care practices, expanding the network of available physicians. Analyzing the services offered by these facilities, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and community outreach programs, provides a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape. Furthermore, the existence of community health centers, which often serve underserved populations, plays a vital role in increasing access to care.

Standout practices in McKeesport may distinguish themselves through innovative approaches to patient care. This could include the implementation of patient-centered medical homes, which emphasize coordinated care and patient engagement. Practices that offer extended hours, multilingual services, or culturally sensitive care can better meet the needs of a diverse population. Investigating the use of patient portals and other technologies to enhance communication and patient empowerment is also important.

The overall health score for doctors in ZIP code 15135 and primary care availability in McKeesport is a complex assessment. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. The score is influenced by physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The score for McKeesport is also influenced by the city's demographics, socioeconomic factors, and the presence of healthcare facilities.

A low score might indicate limited access to care, long wait times, and a lack of mental health resources. This could lead to poorer health outcomes for residents. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare system with ample access to quality care and comprehensive services. Regular monitoring and evaluation are essential to track changes in the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in this region, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis.