15359, Rogersville, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 15359, Rogersville, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.07 percent of the residents in 15359 has some form of health insurance. 19.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.85 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 15359 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 66 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15359. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 12 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 550 health care providers accessible to residents in 15359, Rogersville, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Rogersville, PA (ZIP Code 15359)

This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care resources in Rogersville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15359), focusing on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility and suitability of local healthcare options. This score considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support – all crucial for comprehensive arthritis care.

Rogersville, a rural community, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. The limited population density often translates to fewer healthcare providers and longer travel distances for patients. This geographical constraint necessitates a careful examination of the existing resources and their capacity to meet the needs of individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis.

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

Accurate physician-to-patient ratio data for Rogersville specifically requires accessing the most current and localized datasets. Publicly available resources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health provide this information, although it may require some digging. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access and more opportunities for comprehensive management.

The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is paramount. PCPs serve as the initial point of contact for healthcare, managing overall health and coordinating specialist referrals. In the context of arthritis, a PCP plays a vital role in diagnosis, medication management, and monitoring disease progression. A shortage of PCPs or long wait times for appointments can significantly delay diagnosis and treatment, impacting patient outcomes.

**Standout Practices and Specialization:**

Identifying standout practices involves assessing their commitment to arthritis care. This includes evaluating whether practices have physicians with specific training or experience in rheumatology or musculoskeletal disorders. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education related to arthritis, or have established partnerships with rheumatologists in nearby areas, are often better equipped to provide quality care.

Key indicators of a practice’s suitability include the availability of on-site diagnostic tools, such as X-ray machines, and their willingness to collaborate with physical therapists and occupational therapists. A multidisciplinary approach, where different healthcare professionals work together to manage the patient’s condition, is crucial for effective arthritis management. Practices that offer such integrated services are likely to score higher in our assessment.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine adoption is particularly relevant in rural areas like Rogersville, where travel distances can be a significant barrier to accessing care. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations can help reduce travel time and improve access to specialists. This is especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and providing ongoing support and education.

Evaluating telemedicine integration involves assessing the types of services offered remotely (e.g., virtual consultations, remote monitoring), the ease of use of the telemedicine platform, and the availability of technical support for patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it seamlessly into their workflow are likely to provide a higher level of convenience and accessibility for patients with arthritis.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Pain, disability, and the challenges of managing a chronic illness can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive arthritis care.

Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care model are better equipped to address the psychological needs of their patients. This includes offering on-site counseling services, providing referrals to mental health professionals, and educating patients about the link between arthritis and mental health. Practices that prioritize mental health support are likely to provide a more holistic and patient-centered approach to care.

**Arthritis Score – A Holistic Assessment:**

The "Arthritis Score" is not a single number but a composite assessment based on the factors discussed above. It considers the availability of PCPs, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized expertise, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for arthritis care, reflecting better access, comprehensive services, and a patient-centered approach.

The score is dynamic and will change as healthcare resources evolve. It is essential to regularly update the assessment to reflect changes in physician availability, practice offerings, and technological advancements.

**Conclusion:**

Evaluating the healthcare landscape in Rogersville, PA, highlights the importance of access, specialization, and integrated care for individuals managing arthritis. While the rural setting presents challenges, the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources can significantly improve patient outcomes. A comprehensive assessment of local resources is essential for making informed healthcare decisions.

**Call to Action:**

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