15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15847 has some form of health insurance. 66.67 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.67 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 15847 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 9 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15847. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 11 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,253 health care providers accessible to residents in 15847, Knox Dale, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15847 and Primary Care in Knox Dale

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 15847, focusing on the town of Knox Dale, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas. The assessment utilizes an "Arthritis Score" framework, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors in comprehensive arthritis management. This approach aims to provide a practical overview for residents seeking quality healthcare within this specific geographical area.

The foundation of any robust arthritis care system lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Knox Dale, the accessibility of PCPs serves as the initial filter. Limited primary care access directly impacts the Arthritis Score. A low PCP-to-patient ratio necessitates longer wait times for initial consultations and referrals, delaying crucial diagnoses and treatment plans. The analysis begins by examining the number of PCPs serving the Knox Dale population and comparing it to national and state averages. A significant deficit in PCP availability immediately lowers the overall score.

Beyond basic access, the Arthritis Score considers the presence of rheumatologists, specialists specifically trained in diagnosing and treating arthritis and related conditions. ZIP code 15847's proximity to larger urban centers impacts rheumatologist availability. Residents might need to travel outside the immediate area for specialized care. The analysis evaluates the travel time and accessibility of rheumatology practices within a reasonable radius, factoring in factors like public transportation availability and the potential burden on patients with mobility limitations. The presence of dedicated rheumatology practices, their acceptance of various insurance plans, and their patient satisfaction ratings all contribute to the score.

The analysis also considers the availability of ancillary services vital to arthritis management. This includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, and bone density scans. The proximity and accessibility of these services directly impact the Arthritis Score. A practice with on-site physical therapy or easy access to diagnostic imaging significantly enhances the score. Furthermore, the analysis considers the availability of these services within a network of providers, ensuring seamless coordination of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical component of the Arthritis Score. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for arthritis patients, including reduced travel time, increased access to specialists, and improved medication management. The analysis examines the extent to which local healthcare providers utilize telemedicine platforms for consultations, follow-up appointments, and remote monitoring. Practices actively embracing telemedicine will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and modern healthcare practices.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of the Arthritis Score. Chronic pain associated with arthritis often leads to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The analysis assesses the availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, and their integration into the overall arthritis care plan. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide referrals to appropriate resources receive a higher score, demonstrating a holistic approach to patient well-being. The presence of pain management specialists who also address the psychological aspects of chronic pain is also evaluated.

The analysis also identifies any standout practices within the 15847 ZIP code or nearby areas. This involves researching practices known for their expertise in arthritis care, patient satisfaction ratings, and innovative approaches to treatment. These standout practices may have specialized programs, participate in clinical trials, or offer unique services such as acupuncture or massage therapy. Their presence and the availability of these resources contribute positively to the overall Arthritis Score.

The analysis will consider the availability of patient education materials and support groups. Arthritis patients benefit from access to reliable information about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies. The analysis examines whether local practices provide educational resources, such as brochures, websites, or patient education classes. The presence of arthritis support groups, either in-person or online, also enhances the score, as these groups provide valuable peer support and a sense of community.

The analysis will also consider the accessibility of the healthcare system for patients with disabilities. This includes assessing the physical accessibility of medical facilities, the availability of assistive devices, and the willingness of healthcare providers to accommodate the needs of patients with mobility limitations. Practices that prioritize accessibility will receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to inclusivity and patient-centered care.

The overall Arthritis Score will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weighting will reflect the relative importance of each factor in providing high-quality arthritis care. The final score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape for arthritis patients in ZIP code 15847 and specifically Knox Dale, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide a clear and concise overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare choices.

The analysis will also consider the availability of alternative therapies. Many arthritis patients seek relief through complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches, such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and herbal remedies. The analysis will examine the availability of these therapies in the local area and their integration into the overall arthritis care plan. Practices that are open to discussing CAM options and providing referrals to qualified practitioners will receive a higher score.

Finally, the analysis will incorporate data on insurance coverage and affordability. The cost of arthritis care can be a significant barrier to access for many patients. The analysis will examine the acceptance of various insurance plans by local healthcare providers and the availability of financial assistance programs. Practices that are transparent about their pricing and offer affordable care options will receive a higher score.

Understanding the geographic distribution of healthcare resources is crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data collected in this Arthritis Score analysis, allowing for a clear and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 15847 and Knox Dale. **Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize the availability of doctors, specialists, and resources for arthritis care in your area. Visit CartoChrome today to gain a comprehensive understanding of your healthcare options.**