15857, Saint Marys, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 15857, Saint Marys, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.25 percent of the residents in 15857 has some form of health insurance. 44.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.80 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 15857 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,515 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15857. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,043 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 465 health care providers accessible to residents in 15857, Saint Marys, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Saint Marys, PA (ZIP Code 15857)

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care within Saint Marys, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15857) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, dubbed the "Arthritis Score," considers various factors impacting patient access to and the quality of care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources.

Saint Marys, a relatively small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. A critical starting point is understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, specifically rheumatologists, practicing within the ZIP code is essential. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide this information. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, suggests potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and accessing specialized care.

Beyond simple numbers, the "Arthritis Score" must evaluate the quality of care provided. This involves identifying standout practices within the community. Researching physician profiles, reading patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, and examining hospital affiliations can reveal practices with a strong reputation for arthritis treatment. Identifying practices that specialize in different types of arthritis or offer a comprehensive approach, including physical therapy and pain management, is crucial. Practices that participate in clinical trials or research initiatives may also indicate a commitment to staying at the forefront of arthritis care.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital component of the "Arthritis Score." The ability to conduct virtual consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments or medication management, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Assessing which practices offer telemedicine services, the types of services offered virtually, and the ease of use of the telemedicine platform is important. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care and a commitment to improving access.

The impact of arthritis extends beyond physical symptoms. Chronic pain and limitations can significantly affect mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical factor in the "Arthritis Score." This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community or easily accessible through referral networks. Practices that integrate mental health services into their arthritis care model, either directly or through partnerships, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Furthermore, the "Arthritis Score" should consider the availability of ancillary services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and support groups. These services play a crucial role in managing arthritis symptoms and improving quality of life. Evaluating the accessibility and quality of these services within the community is essential. Practices that collaborate with physical therapists and other specialists demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive care.

Data sources like the American Medical Association (AMA) and the Pennsylvania Medical Society can provide information on physician licensing and specialties. Hospital websites and local healthcare directories can help identify practices and their services. Local community resources, such as senior centers or patient advocacy groups, may offer valuable insights into patient experiences and the quality of care.

The "Arthritis Score" for Saint Marys, PA, would likely be influenced by the community's size and location. Rural areas often face challenges related to physician shortages and limited access to specialized care. The score might reflect these realities. However, the presence of dedicated practices, telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health resources could positively impact the score.

The analysis would also consider the insurance landscape. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices is crucial for patient access. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, ensure that care is accessible to a broader population.

Finally, the "Arthritis Score" is not a static measurement. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, such as the arrival of new physicians, the expansion of telemedicine services, or the establishment of new support programs. This ongoing monitoring ensures that the score remains a relevant and valuable tool for patients seeking arthritis care in Saint Marys.

The "Arthritis Score" is a complex assessment, but it offers a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of arthritis care in Saint Marys, PA. It highlights the importance of physician availability, the quality of care provided, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. By considering these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and advocate for improved access to care within their community.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Saint Marys and visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data used in this analysis, providing a clear and interactive understanding of physician locations, practice specializations, and other relevant information.