15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.22 percent of the residents in 15773 has some form of health insurance. 48.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.70 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 15773 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 124 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15773. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 82 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 48 health care providers accessible to residents in 15773, Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Saint Benedict, PA (ZIP Code 15773)

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care in Saint Benedict, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15773) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Arthritis Score," considers several key factors, from physician-to-patient ratios to the integration of mental health resources, ultimately providing a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any good healthcare system is access. In Saint Benedict, primary care availability is the first critical element. While a detailed investigation requires on-the-ground research, publicly available data points, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) data, can offer initial insights. This data, combined with information from insurance providers, can reveal the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. The analysis must consider the physician-to-patient ratio, comparing the number of PCPs to the population of Saint Benedict and nearby communities. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and ongoing care. This initial assessment forms the baseline for our Arthritis Score.

Next, the analysis delves into the specific healthcare practices within and around Saint Benedict. Identifying practices that specialize in rheumatology is crucial. A rheumatologist, a physician specializing in arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, is essential for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing management. The presence of rheumatologists, their experience, and their affiliations (e.g., with hospitals or larger healthcare systems) significantly impact the Arthritis Score. The analysis should investigate the availability of these specialists, including their appointment wait times, patient reviews, and their acceptance of various insurance plans.

Beyond the availability of specialists, the Arthritis Score considers the adoption of modern healthcare practices. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, is increasingly important, especially for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine can offer convenience, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate more frequent check-ins. The analysis needs to identify which practices in the area offer telemedicine options for arthritis patients, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual consultations, medication management) and the technologies used. Practices with robust telemedicine programs will receive a higher score.

The Arthritis Score also accounts for the integration of mental health resources. Arthritis is not just a physical condition; it can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being. Chronic pain, limitations in mobility, and the overall burden of managing the disease can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The analysis must examine whether healthcare practices in Saint Benedict offer or have partnerships with mental health professionals. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who are experienced in working with patients with chronic pain and related conditions. Practices that prioritize mental health support will enhance their Arthritis Score.

Furthermore, the Arthritis Score considers the availability of supportive services. These services can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to patient education programs. Physical and occupational therapy can help patients manage pain, improve mobility, and maintain independence. Patient education programs can empower individuals to better understand their condition, manage their symptoms, and make informed decisions about their care. The analysis needs to assess the availability of these services within the community and the ease with which patients can access them.

A critical component of the Arthritis Score is the assessment of patient satisfaction. Patient reviews, online ratings, and testimonials provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by local practices. The analysis should aggregate and analyze this data to understand patient experiences, including their satisfaction with their doctors, the accessibility of care, the effectiveness of treatment plans, and the overall quality of communication. Practices with consistently positive patient feedback will receive a higher score.

The analysis will also consider the integration of patient-centered care. Patient-centered care emphasizes the importance of shared decision-making, where patients are actively involved in their treatment plans. Practices that prioritize patient preferences, values, and goals will receive a higher score. This includes providing patients with clear and concise information about their condition, treatment options, and potential risks and benefits.

The Arthritis Score will also assess the availability of resources for specific types of arthritis. For example, if the area has a significant population with rheumatoid arthritis, the analysis should look for practices with experience in treating this condition. Similarly, if there are resources for managing osteoarthritis, gout, or other specific forms of arthritis, these will be factored into the score.

Finally, the analysis should consider the cost of care. The Arthritis Score will assess the affordability of healthcare services in the area, including the cost of doctor visits, medications, and other treatments. This includes assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs.

In conclusion, generating a comprehensive Arthritis Score for Saint Benedict (15773) requires a thorough investigation into various factors, including physician availability, specialist expertise, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the availability of supportive services, patient satisfaction, and the cost of care. This analysis provides a snapshot of the healthcare landscape for arthritis patients in the area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

For a visual representation of this data, including the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, patient demographics, and other relevant information, explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can provide a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Saint Benedict and beyond, allowing for informed decision-making and better access to care.