15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.91 percent of the residents in 15906 has some form of health insurance. 60.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.99 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 15906 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,590 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15906. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,236 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,052 health care providers accessible to residents in 15906, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15906)

Analyzing the overall health landscape within Johnstown, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on the 15906 ZIP code, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis considers physician availability, practice quality, the integration of technology, and the accessibility of mental health services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas ripe for improvement.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Availability:**

A fundamental metric for assessing health access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In 15906, and more broadly in Johnstown, this ratio presents a significant challenge. The area, like many rural communities, faces a shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity leads to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and a heavier burden on existing practitioners. The impact is particularly felt by vulnerable populations, including the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, and individuals with limited transportation options.

The availability of primary care physicians is a critical component of overall health. Primary care serves as the gateway to the healthcare system, providing preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating specialist referrals. Limited access to primary care can lead to a cascade of negative health outcomes, including increased hospitalizations and emergency room visits. Addressing this shortage requires a multi-pronged strategy, including incentives for physicians to practice in underserved areas, expanded training programs, and the recruitment of healthcare professionals.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

While the physician-to-patient ratio poses a challenge, the quality of care within existing practices is crucial. Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors, including patient satisfaction scores, the adoption of evidence-based practices, and the availability of specialized services. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer comprehensive care, and utilize technology effectively often demonstrate superior outcomes.

Assessing practice quality requires a deep dive into data. Patient reviews, gathered from various online platforms, provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Analyzing data on preventative care measures, such as screenings and vaccinations, can reveal the commitment of practices to proactive health management. Furthermore, evaluating the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and other technological tools can indicate a practice's efficiency and its ability to coordinate care effectively.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Technological Integration:**

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare providers. Telemedicine offers a way to bridge geographical barriers, providing patients with access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring services. In 15906, the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices is a key indicator of the area's health score.

Evaluating telemedicine adoption involves assessing the availability of virtual appointments, the types of services offered remotely, and the technology infrastructure in place. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve patient access, reduce travel burdens, and enhance the overall patient experience. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires robust internet connectivity, patient education, and a commitment to data security and privacy.

**Mental Health Resources and Accessibility:**

Mental health is an integral part of overall health, and the availability of mental health resources is a crucial factor in the health score assessment. Johnstown, like many communities, faces challenges in providing adequate mental health services. The scarcity of mental health professionals, coupled with the stigma surrounding mental illness, can create significant barriers to care.

Assessing mental health resources involves evaluating the availability of psychiatrists, therapists, and counselors. The presence of mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services is also important. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices can improve access and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health care. Efforts to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote early intervention are essential for improving the overall health of the community.

**Overall Health Score and Areas for Improvement:**

Based on the factors discussed, the overall health score for 15906 is likely to be moderate, with significant areas for improvement. The physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of primary care are major challenges. While standout practices may exist, the overall access to care is limited. Telemedicine adoption is a positive trend, but its impact is limited by technological infrastructure. Mental health resources are available, but the need for increased access and integration is evident.

Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, policymakers, community organizations, and residents. Strategies to improve the health score include:

* **Recruiting and retaining physicians:** Offering financial incentives, loan forgiveness programs, and creating a supportive practice environment can attract physicians to the area.
* **Expanding telehealth services:** Investing in technology infrastructure, providing training for healthcare providers, and educating patients about telehealth options can increase access to care.
* **Strengthening mental health services:** Increasing the number of mental health professionals, integrating mental health services within primary care, and promoting mental health awareness can improve access to care and reduce stigma.
* **Promoting preventive care:** Encouraging regular checkups, screenings, and vaccinations can improve overall health outcomes.
* **Improving access to transportation:** Providing transportation assistance to patients who have difficulty accessing healthcare services can improve access to care.

**Conclusion:**

Improving the overall health score for 15906 requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the challenges of physician shortages, limited access to care, and the need for increased mental health resources. By implementing targeted interventions and fostering a collaborative environment, the community can improve the health and well-being of its residents. For a visual representation of this data, explore the power of location-based insights with CartoChrome maps.