15853, Ridgway, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 15853, Ridgway, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.69 percent of the residents in 15853 has some form of health insurance. 43.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.94 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 15853 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,519 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15853. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,089 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 438 health care providers accessible to residents in 15853, Ridgway, Pennsylvania.

The following analysis assesses the quality of arthritis care and primary care availability within Ridgway, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 15853. This evaluation considers several factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. While a formal “Arthritis Score” is not a standardized metric, this analysis provides a comprehensive overview to help patients understand the healthcare landscape.

Ridgway, a small town nestled in Elk County, presents unique challenges and opportunities for healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area often influences access to specialized medical care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) forms the foundation of healthcare access, and this is especially critical for patients with arthritis, who frequently require ongoing management and coordination of care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of access. Analyzing data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, it is possible to estimate the approximate number of PCPs serving the 15853 ZIP code. This data is then compared to the total population of Ridgway to calculate the ratio. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can suggest potential difficulties in scheduling appointments, longer wait times, and reduced access to care. The analysis reveals the current ratio and compares it to state and national averages to provide context.

Standout practices in Ridgway are identified based on several factors. These include the availability of board-certified physicians, the range of services offered, and patient satisfaction ratings. Practices that offer comprehensive primary care, including preventative screenings, chronic disease management, and referral services, are considered favorably. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, such as extended hours or online patient portals, are also highlighted. The analysis identifies specific practices within the area, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses based on publicly available information and patient reviews.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas where geographic barriers can limit access to healthcare. The analysis examines the extent to which Ridgway physicians utilize telemedicine for arthritis and primary care consultations. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities, and the use of telehealth platforms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are recognized for their efforts to improve patient access and convenience. The evaluation considers the types of telemedicine services offered, such as video consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and secure messaging.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical aspect of comprehensive healthcare, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. The analysis investigates the availability of mental health services within primary care practices in Ridgway. This includes assessing whether practices have integrated behavioral health specialists, offer mental health screenings, or provide referrals to mental health professionals. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients are considered favorably. The assessment examines the presence of on-site therapists, the availability of mental health counseling, and the coordination of care between primary care physicians and mental health providers.

The analysis considers the availability of rheumatologists, specialists who diagnose and treat arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Due to the specialized nature of rheumatology, access to these specialists can be limited in rural areas. The analysis determines the proximity of rheumatologists to Ridgway and the ease with which patients can obtain referrals and appointments. The evaluation considers the travel distance, waiting times, and the availability of specialized services offered by rheumatologists.

The analysis also considers the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services, which are essential for managing the symptoms of arthritis. These therapies can help patients improve their mobility, reduce pain, and maintain their independence. The analysis evaluates the number of physical and occupational therapists available in Ridgway and the types of services they offer. The evaluation considers the availability of specialized programs for arthritis patients, such as aquatic therapy or group exercise classes.

The assessment also examines the availability of other supportive services, such as patient education programs, support groups, and access to medications. Patient education programs can help patients understand their condition, manage their symptoms, and make informed decisions about their care. Support groups can provide patients with emotional support and a sense of community. Access to medications is crucial for managing arthritis symptoms, and the analysis considers the availability of pharmacies and the ease with which patients can obtain their prescriptions.

The analysis also considers the use of electronic health records (EHRs) by Ridgway physicians. EHRs can improve the efficiency and coordination of care by allowing physicians to share patient information electronically. The analysis evaluates the extent to which Ridgway physicians use EHRs and the benefits they provide to patients. The evaluation considers the ability of patients to access their medical records online, the use of EHRs for medication management, and the integration of EHRs with other healthcare systems.

The analysis also considers the cost of healthcare in Ridgway, including the cost of physician visits, medications, and other services. The cost of healthcare can be a barrier to access, and the analysis evaluates the affordability of healthcare services in the area. The evaluation considers the availability of insurance coverage, the cost of prescription medications, and the availability of financial assistance programs.

The analysis also considers the quality of care provided by Ridgway physicians, including their adherence to evidence-based guidelines and their patient satisfaction ratings. The analysis evaluates the use of quality measures, such as the percentage of patients who receive recommended screenings and the percentage of patients who are satisfied with their care. The evaluation considers the results of patient satisfaction surveys and the feedback from patient advocacy groups.

In conclusion, the healthcare landscape in Ridgway, Pennsylvania, presents both challenges and opportunities for arthritis patients and those seeking primary care. While the rural setting may limit access to certain specialized services, the analysis identifies practices and providers that are working to improve patient care through telemedicine, integrated mental health resources, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Understanding the specific strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system is crucial for patients seeking to manage their arthritis effectively.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Ridgway and explore the locations of physicians, specialists, and other healthcare resources, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a powerful tool for understanding healthcare access and making informed decisions about your care.