15474, Point Marion, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 15474, Point Marion, Pennsylvania is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.12 percent of the residents in 15474 has some form of health insurance. 43.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.12 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 15474 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 743 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15474. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 216 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 325 health care providers accessible to residents in 15474, Point Marion, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Point Marion, PA (ZIP Code 15474)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care services, with a specific focus on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis, within the Point Marion, Pennsylvania ZIP code of 15474. We will assess the "Arthritis Score" by examining physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in comprehensive arthritis care.

Point Marion, a small borough in Fayette County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its rural setting often translates to a lower density of healthcare providers compared to more urban areas. This scarcity can significantly impact access to timely and appropriate care, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis, which require ongoing management and specialized attention.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of healthcare accessibility. In 15474, the ratio likely reflects a need for more primary care physicians. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and difficulty establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care physician. This is especially detrimental for arthritis sufferers who benefit from consistent monitoring and personalized treatment plans. Publicly available data from sources like the US Department of Health & Human Services and the Pennsylvania Department of Health would be essential to determine the precise ratio for this ZIP code.

Identifying standout practices is critical. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient care, offer specialized services, or employ innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. While a comprehensive assessment requires detailed practice profiles, certain factors can indicate a practice's commitment to arthritis care. These include the presence of board-certified rheumatologists (though their availability in a rural setting is often limited), the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services on-site or through close partnerships, and a demonstrated commitment to patient education and support groups. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or utilize evidence-based treatment protocols also score higher.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. For arthritis patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and physical therapy sessions. The extent of telemedicine adoption in 15474 among primary care practices is a key factor in the "Arthritis Score." Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring capabilities, are better positioned to serve the needs of arthritis patients.

The often-overlooked aspect of arthritis care is the integration of mental health resources. Chronic pain, mobility limitations, and the overall impact of arthritis can significantly affect a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and social isolation are common challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health services within primary care practices or through readily accessible referral networks is vital. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, partner with mental health professionals, or provide access to support groups will receive a higher "Arthritis Score."

The "Arthritis Score" for 15474 would be significantly impacted by the presence of these factors. A high score would indicate a strong primary care infrastructure with sufficient physician availability, standout practices offering specialized services, robust telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health support. Conversely, a low score would reflect a shortage of physicians, limited access to specialized care, minimal telemedicine adoption, and a lack of mental health resources.

The impact of the healthcare environment extends beyond the availability of medical services. The economic and social conditions of Point Marion also play a role. Factors like poverty, lack of transportation, and limited access to healthy food can exacerbate the challenges faced by arthritis patients. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving overall well-being and managing chronic conditions effectively.

In conclusion, assessing the "Arthritis Score" in 15474 requires a multifaceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. A comprehensive evaluation would involve detailed data collection and analysis, including surveys of primary care practices, patient interviews, and an examination of public health data. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape in Point Marion and identifying areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Point Marion, including the location of primary care practices, the availability of specialists, and the distribution of resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable tool for visualizing healthcare access and identifying potential gaps in care.