18083, Stockertown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18083, Stockertown, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.58 percent of the residents in 18083 has some form of health insurance. 16.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.42 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 18083 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 169 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18083. An estimate of 56 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 63 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 36,702 health care providers accessible to residents in 18083, Stockertown, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Stockertown, PA (ZIP Code 18083)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for the availability and quality of healthcare services within the 18083 ZIP code, encompassing Stockertown, Pennsylvania. It focuses on primary care physician availability, the physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any health score analysis begins with understanding the population served. Stockertown, like any community, has a unique demographic profile that impacts healthcare needs. Age distribution, prevalence of chronic diseases, and socioeconomic factors all play a role in shaping the demand for healthcare services. This analysis considers these factors indirectly through its assessment of resource availability and quality.

One of the most critical indicators of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. A high ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potential strain on existing healthcare providers. Data on this ratio in 18083, and the surrounding Northampton County area, is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or the Pennsylvania Department of Health would be crucial in establishing this baseline. A low ratio, conversely, suggests a greater availability of primary care physicians and potentially better access to care.

Identifying standout primary care practices is another key component of the assessment. This involves evaluating factors such as patient reviews, the range of services offered (e.g., preventative care, chronic disease management, specialized care), and the practice's overall reputation within the community. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback from patients, demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, and embrace innovative approaches to healthcare delivery would score higher. This could be determined through online reviews, patient surveys, and the practices' own websites.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including improved access to care, particularly for individuals in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. It can also facilitate remote monitoring of chronic conditions and provide convenient access to consultations and follow-up appointments. The extent to which primary care practices in 18083 have embraced telemedicine, including the types of services offered via telehealth and the ease of access for patients, is a significant factor in the overall health score.

Mental health resources are a crucial aspect of overall well-being. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is a critical factor in assessing the health of a community. The analysis must investigate the presence of mental health providers within the 18083 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. This includes assessing the accessibility of these resources, the types of services offered, and the integration of mental healthcare into primary care practices. The integration of mental health services into primary care settings can be a significant advantage, facilitating early detection and treatment of mental health conditions.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of ancillary services that support primary care. This includes access to diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs, etc.), laboratory services, and specialist referrals. The proximity of these services and the ease with which patients can access them contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the healthcare system. The presence of a local hospital or urgent care facility is also a critical factor.

The quality of care provided by primary care physicians is paramount. This involves assessing factors such as the physicians' qualifications, experience, and adherence to evidence-based guidelines. Data on patient outcomes, such as rates of hospital readmissions and the management of chronic diseases, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care. This information can be obtained from public health data, hospital reports, and other sources.

Beyond the availability of services, the analysis should also consider the affordability of healthcare. The cost of care, including insurance premiums, co-pays, and the cost of medications, can significantly impact access to care. The analysis should consider the availability of financial assistance programs, such as Medicaid and Medicare, and the acceptance of various insurance plans by local primary care practices.

The healthcare landscape in 18083 is not static. It is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment modalities, and healthcare policies emerging regularly. The analysis must be updated periodically to reflect these changes. This requires ongoing monitoring of healthcare trends, data collection, and stakeholder engagement.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in Stockertown, PA (ZIP Code 18083) is a multifaceted undertaking. It requires a comprehensive approach that considers a wide range of factors, from physician-to-patient ratios to the availability of mental health resources and the adoption of telemedicine. By systematically evaluating these factors, it is possible to develop a nuanced understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this specific geographic area. This understanding can inform efforts to improve access to care, enhance the quality of care, and promote the overall health and well-being of the community.

The final overall health score will be a composite of all the factors discussed. The weighting of each factor will depend on its relative importance in determining the overall health of the community. The score will provide a valuable benchmark for assessing the healthcare landscape in 18083 and tracking progress over time.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and areas with limited access, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a visual representation of healthcare data, allowing for a more intuitive and comprehensive analysis of the healthcare landscape in Stockertown and beyond.