15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.71 percent of the residents in 15856 has some form of health insurance. 47.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.53 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 15856 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 127 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15856. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 205 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 242 health care providers accessible to residents in 15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Rockton, PA (ZIP Code 15856)

This analysis provides an ‘Overall Health Score’ assessment for the Rockton, Pennsylvania area (ZIP Code 15856), focusing on primary care availability and the quality of healthcare services accessible to residents. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This comprehensive approach aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographic area.

The initial assessment hinges on the fundamental principle of accessibility. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. In Rockton, and the broader Clearfield County, the ratio of primary care physicians to the population is a crucial factor in determining the overall health score. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and a less accessible healthcare system. Conversely, a lower ratio, with more physicians available, generally suggests better access and a more responsive healthcare environment. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau are utilized to calculate this ratio, providing a baseline understanding of the local healthcare infrastructure.

Beyond raw numbers, the analysis delves into the characteristics of the primary care practices themselves. The presence of board-certified physicians, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management, specialized consultations), and the availability of ancillary services (e.g., on-site lab work, imaging) all contribute to the quality of care. Practices with a strong emphasis on preventative medicine and chronic disease management, demonstrated through adherence to evidence-based guidelines and patient education programs, are weighted more favorably. Furthermore, the incorporation of patient feedback, through surveys and online reviews, is considered to gauge patient satisfaction and identify areas for improvement.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor in the ‘Overall Health Score’. The ability to access healthcare remotely, through video consultations, virtual check-ins, and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access, especially for residents in rural areas like Rockton. Telemedicine can reduce travel time, improve convenience, and provide access to specialists who might not be readily available locally. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow, offering a range of virtual services and demonstrating patient satisfaction with these offerings, receive higher scores. The availability of technological infrastructure, such as reliable internet access, within the community is also considered as a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

The availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the overall health assessment. Mental health is an integral part of overall well-being, and access to these services is crucial. The analysis examines the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors in the area, as well as the availability of mental health support groups and crisis intervention services. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices, where patients can receive both physical and mental health care in a coordinated manner, is highly valued. The presence of specialized programs addressing specific mental health needs, such as addiction treatment or support for veterans, is also considered.

Standout practices within the 15856 ZIP code are identified based on a combination of factors. These may include practices with a strong emphasis on patient-centered care, those that have successfully integrated telemedicine, or those that demonstrate a commitment to community outreach and health education. Practices that consistently receive positive patient reviews, demonstrate high levels of patient satisfaction, and actively participate in quality improvement initiatives are highlighted. These practices serve as models of excellence within the local healthcare landscape, and their practices can be emulated by other providers.

The ‘Overall Health Score’ is not a static measure. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Factors such as changes in physician staffing, the introduction of new technologies, and shifts in community needs can all impact the score. Regular updates to the analysis, incorporating the latest available data and feedback, are essential to maintain its accuracy and relevance. The score is intended to be a tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to identify areas for improvement.

In Rockton, the availability of primary care physicians is likely a key determinant of the overall health score. The specific physician-to-patient ratio, compared to state and national averages, provides a critical benchmark. The analysis examines the distribution of primary care physicians across the area, considering whether there are underserved populations or geographic disparities in access to care. The presence of federally qualified health centers or other community health clinics, which often serve vulnerable populations, is also factored into the assessment.

The quality of care provided by primary care physicians in Rockton is evaluated based on several factors. The analysis considers the qualifications of the physicians, their experience, and their adherence to evidence-based clinical guidelines. The availability of specialized services, such as diabetes management, cardiovascular care, and geriatric care, is also assessed. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technologies to improve patient care is also considered.

The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Rockton is an important factor in improving access to care, particularly for residents in rural areas. The analysis examines the types of telemedicine services offered, such as virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient portals. The analysis also assesses the availability of technology infrastructure, such as reliable internet access, that is necessary for telemedicine to be successful.

The availability of mental health resources in Rockton is also an important consideration. The analysis examines the number of mental health providers in the area, as well as the availability of mental health support groups and crisis intervention services. The integration of mental health services within primary care practices is also assessed.

The final ‘Overall Health Score’ for Rockton, PA (ZIP Code 15856) reflects a composite of these factors. It provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and weakness. This score is intended to be a tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers to understand the healthcare environment and to identify opportunities for improvement. The score can be used to inform decisions about healthcare utilization, healthcare planning, and healthcare policy.

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