16621, Broad Top, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 16621, Broad Top, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.93 percent of the residents in 16621 has some form of health insurance. 43.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.75 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 16621 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 164 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16621. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 124 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 200 health care providers accessible to residents in 16621, Broad Top, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16621 and Primary Care Availability in Broad Top

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment of healthcare resources within ZIP code 16621 (representing the town of Broad Top City, Pennsylvania) with a specific focus on the availability of primary care physicians and related services crucial for managing arthritis. The score is not a formal, universally recognized metric, but rather a qualitative evaluation based on publicly available data, professional insights, and contextual understanding of the region. The primary goal is to gauge the adequacy of resources for individuals suffering from arthritis within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any arthritis management plan is consistent access to primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio within Broad Top City is a critical starting point. Due to the rural nature of the area, the likelihood is that the ratio of primary care physicians to the general population is significantly lower than the national average. This scarcity can lead to extended wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for arthritis patients. The ability to secure timely appointments is a fundamental component of the "Arthritis Score."

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The analysis must consider the experience and expertise of the physicians practicing within ZIP code 16621 and the surrounding region. Are they well-versed in the early detection and management of arthritis? Do they have established referral networks to rheumatologists and other specialists? This network is essential for comprehensive care. A robust referral system is a major positive factor in the "Arthritis Score."

Standout practices within the area, or those located within a reasonable driving distance, deserve special attention. Are there any clinics or medical groups that have cultivated a particular focus on musculoskeletal health? Do they offer specialized services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, or access to advanced imaging technologies like MRI? The availability of these supporting services directly impacts the "Arthritis Score." The presence of a practice with a dedicated arthritis program would significantly boost the score.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in the evaluation. The utilization of telehealth services can be a game-changer, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person care can be challenging. Does the primary care network in and around Broad Top City offer telemedicine consultations for arthritis management? Telemedicine can facilitate medication management, provide remote monitoring, and offer virtual physical therapy sessions. The availability of telemedicine services is a positive component in the "Arthritis Score."

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for individuals managing chronic pain conditions like arthritis. The emotional toll of living with arthritis can be substantial, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The analysis must consider the availability of mental health services within the community. Are there therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists who specialize in chronic pain management? Are these resources readily accessible, or are there long wait times for appointments? The presence of integrated mental health support is a critical factor that contributes to a higher "Arthritis Score."

Furthermore, the analysis needs to assess the accessibility of prescription medications. Are pharmacies readily available within Broad Top City, or do residents need to travel long distances to fill their prescriptions? The ability to easily obtain necessary medications is a fundamental aspect of arthritis management. The ease of access to pharmacies is an important factor in the "Arthritis Score."

The analysis also considers the availability of patient education resources. Are there support groups, educational programs, or online resources available to help patients learn more about arthritis and how to manage their condition? The availability of these resources can empower patients to take a more active role in their care. Access to patient education resources contributes to a higher "Arthritis Score."

The "Arthritis Score" is also influenced by the availability of physical therapy and rehabilitation services. These services are essential for maintaining mobility, reducing pain, and improving overall quality of life for arthritis patients. The analysis considers the availability of qualified physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other rehabilitation specialists within the community. The availability of these services is a key component of the "Arthritis Score."

The overall "Arthritis Score" for ZIP code 16621 and the surrounding area is likely to be moderate to low. The rural nature of the region suggests potential challenges in terms of physician-to-patient ratios, limited access to specialists, and a possible lack of readily available mental health resources. The absence of robust telemedicine options could further exacerbate these challenges. However, the score could be improved by the presence of standout practices with a focus on musculoskeletal health, the availability of telemedicine services, and the integration of mental health support.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Broad Top City and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a detailed visualization of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant data points. CartoChrome can provide valuable insights into the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare services within the region.