16630, Cresson, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 16630, Cresson, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.29 percent of the residents in 16630 has some form of health insurance. 41.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.24 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 16630 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 899 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16630. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,116 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,415 health care providers accessible to residents in 16630, Cresson, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16630 and Primary Care Availability in Cresson

Analyzing the availability and quality of healthcare, specifically concerning arthritis management, within ZIP code 16630 (Cresson, Pennsylvania) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will examine the landscape of primary care physicians, their capacity to address arthritis-related needs, and the availability of supporting resources. The goal is to provide an “Arthritis Score” assessment, factoring in physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health services.

The foundation of arthritis care often lies within primary care. In Cresson, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) or state health departments, can be used to estimate this ratio. A low ratio (more physicians per capita) generally indicates better access to care. However, simply counting physicians is insufficient. The analysis must consider the age distribution of the population, as arthritis prevalence increases with age. Cresson, like many rural areas, may have a higher proportion of older residents, potentially increasing the demand for arthritis-related care.

Beyond raw numbers, the scope of services offered by primary care practices is vital. Do physicians in 16630 routinely screen for arthritis symptoms? Do they have the expertise to diagnose and manage common forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis? Are they equipped to order necessary imaging (X-rays, MRIs) and laboratory tests? Furthermore, the availability of on-site physical therapy or referrals to local physical therapists is a significant factor. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing arthritis symptoms, improving mobility, and reducing pain.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to arthritis care might have dedicated staff trained in arthritis management, offer patient education programs, or participate in quality improvement initiatives related to arthritis care. Reviews from patients, available on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, can provide insights into patient experiences and satisfaction levels. Practices with consistently positive reviews, particularly those mentioning arthritis-related care, would score higher in the assessment.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element in evaluating healthcare accessibility, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. This is especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and providing access to specialists who may not be readily available in Cresson. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, would receive a higher score. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is also a factor, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health integration is a critical component of comprehensive arthritis care. Chronic pain, limited mobility, and the challenges of managing arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being. Practices that recognize this and offer or facilitate access to mental health services, such as counseling or support groups, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. This could involve on-site therapists, partnerships with local mental health providers, or providing resources for patients to access mental health support.

The “Arthritis Score” will be determined by weighting these factors. Physician-to-patient ratio will be weighted heavily, as it directly impacts access. The scope of services offered by primary care practices, including diagnostic capabilities, physical therapy referrals, and patient education, will also be significant. Telemedicine adoption and mental health integration will contribute to the overall score, reflecting the importance of comprehensive care. Standout practices, identified through patient reviews and practice characteristics, will further enhance the score.

To conduct a thorough analysis, data collection would involve researching local physician directories, reviewing practice websites, and examining patient reviews. Public health data, if available, could provide additional insights into the prevalence of arthritis and the utilization of healthcare services within the community. This information can then be synthesized to create a comprehensive “Arthritis Score” assessment, providing a valuable resource for residents of Cresson seeking information about arthritis care.

The final “Arthritis Score” would be a composite measure reflecting the overall quality and accessibility of arthritis care in 16630. It would not be a simple numerical ranking, but rather a nuanced evaluation considering the multifaceted nature of healthcare. The score would be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology, data sources, and key findings.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, the location of practices, and the availability of telemedicine services, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide an interactive and visually compelling way to understand the healthcare landscape in Cresson and surrounding areas.