16402, Bear Lake, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 16402, Bear Lake, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.93 percent of the residents in 16402 has some form of health insurance. 35.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.99 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 16402 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16402. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 176 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 277 health care providers accessible to residents in 16402, Bear Lake, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16402 & Primary Care Availability in Bear Lake

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment, a hypothetical metric representing the accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing arthritis within ZIP code 16402 and the broader context of primary care availability in Bear Lake, Pennsylvania. This score considers factors relevant to arthritis sufferers, including physician availability, treatment options, access to mental health support, and technological integration. The score is not a definitive ranking but rather an interpretive assessment based on available data and reasonable assumptions.

ZIP code 16402, encompassing the town of Corry, Pennsylvania, presents a unique demographic profile. It's a relatively rural area, which often translates to challenges in healthcare access. The Arthritis Score for this region hinges on the availability of qualified medical professionals, specifically rheumatologists and primary care physicians (PCPs) with experience in arthritis management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are critical. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, directly impacts wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. In a rural setting like 16402, this can be exacerbated by the limited number of specialists. The Arthritis Score, therefore, initially considers the number of PCPs and rheumatologists practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding counties. If specialist availability is limited, the score reflects this negatively, emphasizing the need for robust referral networks and efficient communication between PCPs and specialists located further afield.

Standout practices in the area are crucial. This includes practices that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, offer comprehensive arthritis management, and have a track record of positive patient outcomes. The Arthritis Score assesses the presence of practices that actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) related to arthritis, utilize evidence-based treatment protocols, and offer patient education resources. Practices that integrate physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive services receive a higher score, reflecting a holistic approach to arthritis care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor. In rural areas, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improving access to specialists and follow-up care. The Arthritis Score evaluates the availability of telemedicine consultations for arthritis management, including remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual physical therapy sessions, and online support groups. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms receive a higher score, demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and expanded access to care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in arthritis management, yet are crucial. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The Arthritis Score assesses the availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the 16402 area. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers receive a higher score, reflecting a recognition of the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.

Primary care availability in Bear Lake, Pennsylvania, is a related, but distinct, factor. Bear Lake, while not directly within 16402, is geographically close and likely serves as a healthcare resource for some residents of Corry. The Arthritis Score considers the availability of primary care physicians in Bear Lake, as PCPs are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing arthritis symptoms. The score assesses the PCP-to-patient ratio, the availability of same-day or next-day appointments, and the practice’s ability to manage chronic conditions, including arthritis.

The Arthritis Score also evaluates the quality of primary care in Bear Lake. This includes assessing the PCPs’ knowledge of arthritis, their willingness to refer patients to specialists when necessary, and their commitment to patient education and self-management strategies. Practices that actively participate in patient education programs, offer resources on arthritis management, and encourage patient involvement in their care receive a higher score.

The overall Arthritis Score for the combined area of 16402 and the surrounding region, including Bear Lake, is a composite of these factors. A high score indicates a robust healthcare environment with ample access to qualified physicians, comprehensive treatment options, integrated mental health support, and the utilization of telemedicine. A lower score indicates potential challenges in accessing care, highlighting the need for improvements in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

The analysis also considers the availability of specialized services, such as physical therapy and occupational therapy, which are essential for managing arthritis symptoms and improving quality of life. The Arthritis Score evaluates the presence of these services within the area, as well as the integration of these services into the overall care plan. Practices that offer coordinated care, with seamless communication between physicians, therapists, and other healthcare providers, receive a higher score.

Furthermore, the Arthritis Score considers the availability of patient support groups and educational resources. Arthritis can be a challenging condition to manage, and patient support groups can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. The score assesses the presence of support groups in the area, as well as the availability of educational materials, such as brochures, websites, and online resources. Practices that actively promote patient education and support receive a higher score.

Finally, the Arthritis Score acknowledges the importance of patient satisfaction. Patient feedback is a valuable indicator of the quality of care provided. The score considers patient satisfaction surveys and reviews, as well as the practice’s responsiveness to patient concerns and complaints. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient satisfaction receive a higher score.

The overall assessment reveals a need for continuous improvement in the 16402 area and the surrounding region. While some practices may excel in certain areas, such as telemedicine adoption or patient education, the overall healthcare landscape could benefit from increased physician availability, enhanced integration of mental health services, and improved coordination of care.

To visualize and further explore the healthcare landscape in 16402 and Bear Lake, including physician locations, practice specializations, and the availability of supportive services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a powerful platform for visualizing geographic data and gaining a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility and resource allocation in your community.