16258, Strattanville, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 16258, Strattanville, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.19 percent of the residents in 16258 has some form of health insurance. 34.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.85 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 16258 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 314 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16258. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 331 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 441 health care providers accessible to residents in 16258, Strattanville, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16258 & Primary Care in Strattanville

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly for individuals managing arthritis, within ZIP code 16258 (which encompasses Strattanville, Pennsylvania) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the presence of mental health resources, all critical components in determining an "Arthritis Score" reflecting the accessibility and quality of care.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental metric. A higher ratio of patients per primary care physician (PCP) and rheumatologist can indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and consistent care. In a rural area like Strattanville, this is particularly crucial. Data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Pennsylvania state medical boards must be analyzed to determine the precise ratio within 16258. This involves identifying the total number of PCPs and rheumatologists actively practicing within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. A low ratio, meaning a smaller patient load per doctor, would contribute positively to the Arthritis Score. Conversely, a high ratio necessitates careful consideration of appointment wait times and the potential for overburdened physicians, negatively impacting the score.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. This includes the availability of on-site diagnostic services, such as X-rays and blood work, which can streamline the diagnostic process and reduce the need for patients to travel to multiple locations. Practices that offer physical therapy and occupational therapy services under the same roof are also highly advantageous, as they facilitate comprehensive care and promote better coordination between different healthcare providers. Moreover, the presence of certified rheumatologists, rather than general practitioners who may treat arthritis, is paramount. Patient reviews and testimonials, accessible through platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, communication styles, and the overall quality of care. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education, offering resources on managing arthritis, and actively participating in community outreach programs would further enhance their standing.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect of the Arthritis Score. Telemedicine offers significant benefits, particularly in rural areas where travel can be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patient symptoms, and online patient portals for communication and appointment scheduling demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility. The Arthritis Score would be elevated for practices that actively utilize telemedicine platforms, especially for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Conversely, practices with limited or no telemedicine capabilities would negatively impact the score, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive Arthritis Score. This involves assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, within the practices or in the immediate vicinity. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or readily available referrals to mental health providers, demonstrate a proactive approach to patient well-being. The Arthritis Score would be significantly enhanced by the presence of these resources, reflecting a holistic approach to patient care. Conversely, the absence of mental health support would negatively impact the score, potentially leaving patients vulnerable to untreated mental health conditions.

Furthermore, the Arthritis Score should consider the availability of support groups and educational programs for arthritis patients. These resources can provide valuable peer support, information on disease management, and coping strategies. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to these resources would receive a higher score. This includes providing information about local support groups, sponsoring educational workshops, or partnering with arthritis-related organizations.

Finally, the Arthritis Score should take into account the availability of specialized treatments and therapies for arthritis. This includes access to advanced imaging techniques, such as MRIs, and the availability of newer biologic medications. Practices that offer a wide range of treatment options, including both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, would receive a higher score. This also includes access to pain management specialists and other healthcare professionals who can help patients manage their pain and improve their quality of life.

Overall, the Arthritis Score for doctors in ZIP code 16258 and primary care availability in Strattanville would be a composite measure, reflecting the interplay of these various factors. A high score would indicate a healthcare environment that is accessible, comprehensive, and supportive of arthritis patients. A low score would indicate areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and integrating mental health services.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Strattanville, including the precise locations of healthcare providers, their specializations, and the availability of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a detailed, geographical representation of the data, allowing for a more informed assessment of healthcare accessibility and quality.