15687, Stahlstown, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 15687, Stahlstown, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 99.58 percent of the residents in 15687 has some form of health insurance. 42.95 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.91 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 15687 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 192 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15687. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 332 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,718 health care providers accessible to residents in 15687, Stahlstown, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Stahlstown, PA (ZIP Code 15687)

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for primary care physicians and related resources within and serving the Stahlstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15687) area. The score considers factors crucial for arthritis sufferers, including physician availability, practice quality, access to specialized care, and support services. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape, emphasizing elements that directly impact the management and quality of life for individuals living with arthritis.

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

The foundation of arthritis care often rests on a strong relationship with a primary care physician (PCP). Evaluating PCP availability in Stahlstown requires examining the physician-to-patient ratio. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, alongside information from healthcare directories and insurance provider networks, is essential. A high ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access. However, this needs to be balanced with factors like the age and health status of the local population. Stahlstown's rural nature may present challenges, potentially leading to a lower physician density compared to more urban areas. The analysis will need to account for the geographic distribution of PCPs and the distances patients must travel to access care.

Primary care availability also encompasses appointment wait times. Longer wait times can delay diagnosis and treatment, which are critical for effective arthritis management. This analysis will seek to determine average wait times for both new and established patients within the 15687 ZIP code. Furthermore, the availability of same-day or urgent care appointments is a significant factor, particularly for managing acute arthritis flare-ups.

**Standout Practices and Their Approach to Arthritis Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several key aspects of their arthritis care approach. This includes the presence of dedicated rheumatologists or the availability of rheumatology referrals within a reasonable timeframe. Direct access to specialists is a significant advantage for arthritis patients. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to arthritis management, such as offering regular screenings, patient education programs, and personalized treatment plans, will receive higher scores.

The integration of multidisciplinary care is another crucial element. Practices that collaborate with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pain management specialists offer a more comprehensive approach to arthritis management. This integrated approach can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life. The analysis will also consider the practice's commitment to patient education, including providing resources on self-management techniques, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially for patients in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by PCPs in Stahlstown can significantly improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate regular check-ups and medication management. The analysis will assess the availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication refills.

The quality of telemedicine services is also critical. This includes the ease of use of the platform, the availability of technical support, and the ability of physicians to effectively communicate with patients remotely. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow and have received positive patient feedback will be viewed more favorably. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and providing ongoing support for patients managing chronic conditions like arthritis.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Importance:**

Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. The analysis will evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the Stahlstown area, including access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists. The presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices or the ease of referral to mental health services is a significant advantage.

The analysis will also consider the availability of support groups and educational programs focused on managing the emotional and psychological aspects of living with arthritis. These resources can provide valuable support and coping strategies for patients. The integration of mental health services into arthritis care is essential for addressing the holistic needs of patients and improving their overall well-being. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to these resources will receive higher scores.

**Specific Considerations for the 15687 Area:**

Given the rural nature of Stahlstown, the analysis will pay close attention to factors specific to the area. This includes the availability of transportation for patients, particularly those with mobility limitations. The presence of pharmacies that specialize in arthritis medications and offer convenient services, such as medication delivery, will also be considered.

The analysis will also assess the availability of community resources, such as support groups, exercise programs, and educational workshops. These resources can provide valuable support and information for patients living with arthritis. The overall goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Stahlstown, considering both the strengths and weaknesses of the local resources.

**Conclusion:**

This "Arthritis Score" analysis provides a comprehensive overview of primary care and related resources in the Stahlstown, PA (15687) area. The assessment considers physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The final score will reflect the overall quality of care and the accessibility of essential services for individuals living with arthritis.

For a visual representation of physician locations, service areas, and other relevant geographic data, we encourage you to explore the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Stahlstown and beyond.