15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.99 percent of the residents in 15563 has some form of health insurance. 43.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.79 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 15563 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 509 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15563. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 699 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 639 health care providers accessible to residents in 15563, Stoystown, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Stoystown, PA (ZIP Code 15563)

Stoystown, Pennsylvania, nestled in Somerset County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Assessing the overall health score for this community requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, access to specialized services, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. This analysis will delve into the specifics of physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the 15563 ZIP code, ultimately painting a picture of the community’s health and well-being.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In Stoystown, the ratio likely reflects the broader trends observed in rural Pennsylvania. These areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, leading to a potentially higher patient-to-physician ratio compared to urban centers. This means that each doctor in the area may be responsible for a larger patient population, potentially impacting appointment availability and the time a physician can dedicate to each patient. Further investigation into the specific numbers is crucial. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide more precise figures. These figures are necessary to accurately understand the capacity of the current medical infrastructure.

Evaluating standout practices involves identifying healthcare providers that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care. This requires looking beyond the basic metrics and assessing factors like patient satisfaction, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the availability of specialized services. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, maintain strong patient-provider relationships, and offer a comprehensive range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and specialized consultations, would be considered standout. Reviews from patients, alongside data from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), can help identify these practices. The presence of board-certified physicians and the availability of extended hours or weekend appointments also contribute to the overall assessment.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve healthcare access in rural areas like Stoystown. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be readily available locally. The level of telemedicine adoption among practices in the 15563 ZIP code is a critical factor in the overall health score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, are likely to receive higher scores. The types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., general consultations, mental health therapy, specialist follow-ups) also need consideration. Assessing the technology infrastructure available to support telemedicine, including internet connectivity and patient access to devices, is also important.

Mental health resources are an essential component of overall health. Access to mental health services in Stoystown and the surrounding areas is a significant factor in the community’s well-being. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors, as well as the presence of mental health support groups and crisis intervention services, are all critical. The integration of mental health services into primary care practices is also important. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. Examining the availability of substance abuse treatment programs is also essential, given the opioid crisis that has impacted many rural communities.

The overall health score for Stoystown, Pennsylvania, reflects a complex interplay of factors. While specific data is needed to provide a precise score, the analysis suggests that access to care, particularly physician-to-patient ratios, may be a challenge. The adoption of telemedicine offers a promising avenue to improve access. The quality of care, as reflected in standout practices, can offset some of the limitations of access. The availability of mental health resources is crucial for the well-being of the community. A comprehensive assessment requires a thorough investigation of all these factors, including data from various sources, patient feedback, and on-the-ground observations. The score is not a static number but a dynamic measure that can change based on improvements in healthcare access, quality, and the availability of resources.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Stoystown and other areas, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform can visualize healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high physician-to-patient ratios, locate mental health resources, and analyze the distribution of healthcare services across the region.