15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15937 has some form of health insurance. 47.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.99 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 15937 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15937. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 135 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,830 health care providers accessible to residents in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Jerome, PA (ZIP Code 15937)

This analysis provides an “Arthritis Score” assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP Code 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania, focusing on factors relevant to arthritis patients. It evaluates access, quality of care, and supporting resources. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, guiding patients in their search for optimal care.

The core of this analysis is the understanding that arthritis management is multifaceted. It requires timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and ongoing support. The "Arthritis Score" considers several key areas, including physician availability, the adoption of modern technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services, all critical for patient well-being.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratio:**

Jerome, PA, is a small community, and access to primary care physicians is a foundational element of this analysis. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, alongside information on active physician licenses and practice locations.

Initial research suggests that Jerome and the surrounding areas may face challenges in PCP availability. Rural areas often experience shortages due to factors like physician preference for urban settings and limitations in infrastructure. If the physician-to-patient ratio is unfavorable, it negatively impacts the "Arthritis Score." This necessitates a deeper dive into the practices within the area, assessing their capacity to accept new patients and the appointment scheduling processes.

**Standout Practices and Their Approaches:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the physicians' experience and expertise in managing arthritis, the availability of on-site diagnostic tools, and the integration of a multidisciplinary approach to care. Practices that offer a comprehensive range of services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to rheumatology specialists, will score higher.

Evaluating practice websites and online reviews provides valuable insights. Patient testimonials can reveal the quality of patient-physician communication, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience. The presence of board-certified physicians and those with specialized training in rheumatology or related fields is a significant positive factor.

Furthermore, practices that actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) and adhere to the latest treatment guidelines for arthritis management demonstrate a commitment to providing evidence-based care. This commitment directly influences the "Arthritis Score," reflecting a proactive approach to patient well-being.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially for chronic conditions like arthritis. It offers several advantages, including increased access to care, reduced travel time, and the potential for more frequent monitoring of symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, receive a higher score.

The availability of telemedicine services is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas like Jerome, where travel distances can be a barrier to accessing care. The integration of telemedicine into a practice's workflow demonstrates a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The quality of the telemedicine platform, including its ease of use and security features, also contributes to the "Arthritis Score."

**Mental Health Resources and Their Integration:**

Arthritis can have a significant impact on mental health. Chronic pain, disability, and the limitations imposed by the condition can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability and integration of mental health resources are crucial for comprehensive arthritis care.

Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling or psychiatric care, receive a higher score. This integration can take several forms, including on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local therapists, or the use of telehealth for mental health consultations. The ability of the practice to screen for mental health issues and provide appropriate support is a key factor in the "Arthritis Score."

**Specific Considerations for Jerome (15937):**

Given the rural nature of Jerome, the analysis will pay close attention to factors that might impact access to care. These include the availability of transportation, the presence of support groups, and the accessibility of practices for individuals with disabilities. The analysis will also consider the demographics of the area, ensuring that the assessment reflects the specific needs of the community.

The analysis will also investigate the local hospital systems and their affiliations with primary care practices. The presence of a hospital with a dedicated rheumatology department or a strong network of specialists can significantly improve the "Arthritis Score."

**Conclusion:**

The "Arthritis Score" for primary care in Jerome, PA (15937), is a complex assessment. It requires a thorough evaluation of physician availability, practice quality, technological integration, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape, empowering patients to make informed decisions about their care.

The final "Arthritis Score" would be a composite rating, reflecting the weighted scores across all the evaluated categories. This score would be a valuable tool for patients seeking primary care in the area.

**Call to Action:**

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Jerome, PA (15937), including practice locations, physician availability, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you visualize and understand the healthcare resources available in your community.