15458, Mc Clellandtown, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 15458, Mc Clellandtown, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.59 percent of the residents in 15458 has some form of health insurance. 36.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.51 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 15458 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 661 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15458. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 506 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 757 health care providers accessible to residents in 15458, Mc Clellandtown, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15458 and Primary Care in McClellandtown

Analyzing the availability of healthcare, particularly for individuals managing arthritis, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the specifics of doctors in ZIP code 15458, focusing on primary care availability in McClellandtown, Pennsylvania, and evaluating factors crucial for arthritis patients. We'll consider physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all contributing to an "Arthritis Score" assessment.

ZIP code 15458 encompasses a primarily rural area, including McClellandtown. This geographical context significantly influences healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator. A low ratio suggests a potential shortage of doctors, making it difficult for patients to secure timely appointments, particularly specialists like rheumatologists who are critical for arthritis management. Data from the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide baseline population figures. Comparing these figures with the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and rheumatologists practicing within the zip code will reveal the initial physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio is a critical component of the Arthritis Score, with higher ratios negatively impacting the score.

Primary care availability in McClellandtown is a key factor. Primary care physicians often act as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing arthritis symptoms. They can provide initial diagnoses, manage pain, and refer patients to specialists. The accessibility of PCPs, including appointment wait times and the acceptance of new patients, directly affects the Arthritis Score. Analyzing the number of PCPs actively practicing in McClellandtown, their patient load, and their referral patterns is vital. Are there enough PCPs to serve the local population? Are they readily available for consultations? These questions shape the score.

Identifying standout practices within the zip code is important. This involves researching practices known for their patient-centered care, specialized arthritis programs, or strong partnerships with rheumatologists. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive treatment plans, and integrate physical therapy or other supportive services would receive higher marks in the Arthritis Score. Examining patient reviews, practice websites, and local healthcare directories can help identify these leading practices. The presence of dedicated arthritis clinics or programs would significantly boost a practice's rating.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially for rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with doctors remotely. This is particularly beneficial for arthritis patients who may experience mobility limitations or face challenges traveling to appointments. Practices that offer telehealth consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals would receive higher scores. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, medication management), and patient satisfaction with these services are all vital.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis. Arthritis can lead to chronic pain, disability, and emotional distress, including anxiety and depression. The availability of mental health services, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a critical component of the Arthritis Score. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care plans, offer referrals to mental health professionals, or provide support groups for arthritis patients would receive higher scores. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals in the area and the integration of mental health services into primary care are essential.

The Arthritis Score is a composite metric, incorporating all the factors discussed. The physician-to-patient ratio, primary care availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources are weighted based on their relative importance. A higher score indicates better access to care and a more supportive environment for arthritis patients. The scoring system should be transparent and based on objective data whenever possible.

For example, a practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio, readily available primary care, a dedicated arthritis program, comprehensive telemedicine options, and integrated mental health services would receive a high Arthritis Score. Conversely, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited primary care access, and a lack of support services would receive a lower score.

The final Arthritis Score provides a valuable tool for patients seeking healthcare in the 15458 ZIP code. It allows them to make informed decisions about their care, considering the availability of resources and the quality of services offered. It also helps healthcare providers identify areas for improvement, such as expanding telemedicine offerings or integrating mental health services.

This analysis, however, is a snapshot in time. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving. Physician availability changes, new technologies emerge, and patient needs shift. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to maintain the accuracy and relevance of the Arthritis Score. Ongoing monitoring of healthcare trends and incorporating patient feedback are essential.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 15458 and McClellandtown, including physician locations, practice details, and service availability, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a detailed geographic overview, helping you visualize the data discussed in this analysis and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.