15236, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15236, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is 95 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.63 percent of the residents in 15236 has some form of health insurance. 33.07 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.69 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 15236 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,783 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 201 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15236. An estimate of 171 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,894 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 66,317 health care providers accessible to residents in 15236, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Pittsburgh (15236) & Primary Care

This analysis assesses the overall health landscape within Pittsburgh's 15236 ZIP code and the broader context of primary care availability across the city. We'll examine factors influencing health outcomes, including physician access, practice quality, technological integration, and mental health resources, culminating in a composite 'Overall Health Score'. This score reflects the multifaceted nature of healthcare and its impact on the community.

The 15236 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Squirrel Hill and parts of Greenfield, presents a unique healthcare profile. Known for its diverse population and relatively high socioeconomic status, this area often benefits from a robust healthcare infrastructure. However, access and quality can vary, requiring a nuanced assessment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio & Access:**

A critical indicator of healthcare accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, 15236 generally enjoys a favorable ratio compared to other Pittsburgh areas. The presence of several well-established primary care practices contributes to this. However, this doesn't guarantee universal access. Factors like insurance coverage, specialist availability, and transportation limitations can still pose challenges for some residents. The overall availability of primary care physicians in Pittsburgh as a whole is a significant concern. The city, like many urban areas, struggles with physician shortages, particularly in underserved communities. This shortage can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased pressure on existing providers, and potential delays in preventative care. This impacts the overall health score negatively.

**Standout Practices & Quality of Care:**

Several primary care practices within and serving 15236 are recognized for their high quality of care. These practices often prioritize patient-centered care, incorporating comprehensive health screenings, chronic disease management programs, and preventative services. Their commitment to evidence-based medicine and patient education contributes to improved health outcomes. The quality of care is a significant positive factor in the overall health score for this area, though it's important to acknowledge that the quality of care can vary significantly across different practices.

**Telemedicine Adoption & Technological Integration:**

The adoption of telemedicine is a crucial element in modern healthcare. Practices in 15236 have shown varying degrees of telemedicine integration. Some offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, enhancing accessibility and convenience. This is particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions, providing follow-up care, and reaching patients with mobility limitations. The broader adoption of telemedicine across Pittsburgh is growing, though disparities exist. Areas with limited broadband access or a lack of digital literacy may face challenges in fully utilizing these technologies. The overall health score benefits from the technological advancements, but the uneven distribution of access requires consideration.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Mental health is an integral component of overall well-being. Access to mental health services within 15236 is generally better than in many other areas. The presence of mental health professionals, counseling services, and support groups contributes to a more comprehensive approach to healthcare. However, the demand for mental health services often exceeds the available resources. The city of Pittsburgh faces a significant shortage of mental health providers, particularly for children and adolescents. This shortage, coupled with the stigma surrounding mental illness, can create barriers to accessing care. This is a significant negative factor in the overall health score for the city as a whole.

**Overall Health Score Calculation:**

Calculating a precise overall health score is complex, requiring a weighted assessment of the factors discussed. The physician-to-patient ratio, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all contribute.

* **Physician-to-Patient Ratio:** While favorable in 15236, the city-wide shortage negatively impacts the score.
* **Standout Practices & Quality of Care:** Positive impact, especially within the 15236 area.
* **Telemedicine Adoption:** Positive impact, but with caveats regarding access disparities.
* **Mental Health Resources:** A significant negative impact due to city-wide shortages and access challenges.

Based on these factors, the overall health score for 15236, considering its access to quality care and the presence of well-resourced practices, would be moderately positive. However, the score for primary care availability across Pittsburgh is lower due to the physician shortage and the challenges in accessing mental health services. The overall score reflects a mixed picture, with pockets of excellence alongside areas needing improvement.

**Conclusion:**

The health landscape in Pittsburgh, particularly in areas like 15236, is a dynamic environment. While areas benefit from strong healthcare infrastructure and a commitment to quality care, the city as a whole faces challenges related to physician shortages and mental health resource access. This analysis highlights the need for continued efforts to improve access, address disparities, and promote a holistic approach to healthcare.

For a deeper understanding of healthcare access, physician locations, and demographic data within Pittsburgh, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers detailed visualizations and data analysis tools to help you understand the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.