15775, Spangler, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 15775, Spangler, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15775 has some form of health insurance. 45.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.41 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 15775 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 26 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15775. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 111 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 health care providers accessible to residents in 15775, Spangler, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: 15775 & Spangler Primary Care

This analysis provides an “Arthritis Score” assessment, evaluating the availability and quality of care for individuals with arthritis in ZIP code 15775 (covering the town of Spangler and surrounding areas) and the related primary care landscape within Spangler itself. This score is not a formal medical rating but rather a synthesized evaluation based on publicly available data and assumptions regarding best practices in arthritis management. The primary focus is on factors impacting access to care, physician availability, and the integration of supportive services.

The Arthritis Score for 15775 is a composite measure, factoring in several key areas. Physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized rheumatology services, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all considered. The availability of physical therapy and other supportive services also plays a role. This analysis aims to provide a realistic picture of the healthcare environment, acknowledging the challenges and highlighting potential areas for improvement.

The initial consideration is physician density. 15775, being a primarily rural area, likely faces challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios. National averages indicate a shortage of primary care physicians, and the availability of rheumatologists is even more limited. Without specific, up-to-the-minute data on the exact number of physicians practicing within the ZIP code, a precise ratio is difficult to determine. However, it is reasonable to assume that residents may need to travel outside the immediate area to access specialized rheumatology care. This travel time and associated costs directly impact the accessibility of care and, therefore, the Arthritis Score.

Primary care availability within Spangler itself is a crucial component of this assessment. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing arthritis symptoms. They play a vital role in diagnosis, initial treatment, and referral to specialists. The number of PCPs practicing in Spangler, their patient load, and their willingness to accept new patients are critical factors. If the availability of PCPs is limited, patients may face delays in receiving necessary care, potentially leading to a lower Arthritis Score.

Examining the practices within the area, identifying "standout" practices is important. This involves looking for practices that demonstrate a commitment to arthritis care. This could include practices that have dedicated staff to support arthritis patients, such as nurses specializing in chronic disease management or physical therapists with experience in treating arthritis. Practices that offer comprehensive care, including access to diagnostic imaging and laboratory services, are also considered. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, which facilitate communication and access to medical information, is another factor that contributes to a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant element. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for arthritis patients, offering convenient access to consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, especially for routine follow-ups and medication adjustments, are likely to have a positive impact on the Arthritis Score. This is particularly relevant in rural areas where travel can be a significant barrier to accessing care. The ability to connect with specialists remotely can also improve access to specialized rheumatology expertise.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in arthritis management, but they are crucial. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a person's mental and emotional well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive arthritis care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are likely to have a positive impact on the Arthritis Score. This holistic approach to care can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

The presence of physical therapy and other supportive services also influences the Arthritis Score. Physical therapy plays a vital role in managing arthritis symptoms, improving mobility, and reducing pain. The availability of qualified physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other supportive services, such as pain management specialists, is essential. Practices that offer or provide easy access to these services are more likely to provide comprehensive arthritis care.

Based on the assessment of these factors, the Arthritis Score for 15775 and Spangler is likely moderate. The rural nature of the area likely presents challenges in terms of physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialized care. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources could potentially mitigate some of these challenges. The presence of standout practices that prioritize arthritis care would also have a positive impact. However, the overall score will depend on the specific characteristics of the healthcare landscape in the area, including the availability of PCPs, rheumatologists, and supportive services.

The Arthritis Score is dynamic and can change over time. As healthcare practices evolve, the availability of services, and the integration of new technologies will impact the score. Regular assessments are necessary to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in 15775 and Spangler, including the precise locations of physicians, the availability of specific services, and patient reviews, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps and data visualizations, offering valuable insights into healthcare access and resources in your area.