16839, Grassflat, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 16839, Grassflat, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.29 percent of the residents in 16839 has some form of health insurance. 54.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.64 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 16839 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 194 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16839. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 21 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,476 health care providers accessible to residents in 16839, Grassflat, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on primary care physician availability and related resources in Grassflat, Pennsylvania, specifically evaluating the quality of care for individuals potentially suffering from arthritis, within the context of doctors practicing in ZIP code 16839, which encompasses the town. This assessment considers factors crucial for arthritis patients, including physician access, practice characteristics, and the availability of supportive services.

The physician-to-patient ratio in and around Grassflat, within the 16839 ZIP code, presents a significant challenge. Rural areas often struggle with a shortage of primary care physicians, and this can directly impact access to timely diagnosis and management of arthritis. A low physician-to-patient ratio means longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying treatment and leading to a worsening of symptoms for individuals with arthritis. This scarcity also strains existing physicians, who may have limited time for thorough patient evaluations and comprehensive care plans.

Standout practices in the area, while not easily identifiable without comprehensive data, likely demonstrate characteristics beneficial to arthritis patients. These may include practices that prioritize patient education, offering resources on disease management, lifestyle modifications, and medication adherence. Furthermore, clinics that integrate physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management specialists into their care models are highly valuable. Such integrated approaches provide a more holistic and coordinated approach to arthritis care, which is crucial for managing the multifaceted symptoms of the condition.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Telemedicine can also reduce the burden of travel, which can be difficult for individuals with mobility limitations due to arthritis. Practices that offer telemedicine options demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility, improving the overall quality of care.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet vital, component of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals, are better equipped to support the overall well-being of their patients. This integrated approach to care is essential for addressing the psychological impact of arthritis and improving patient outcomes.

Specific practices within the 16839 ZIP code that demonstrate excellence may be identified through patient reviews, online ratings, and recommendations from local healthcare networks. These sources can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the availability of specialized services. However, due to the limited scope of this analysis, specific practice names and detailed evaluations cannot be provided.

The availability of specialists, such as rheumatologists, is another crucial factor. Rheumatologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Access to a rheumatologist is essential for accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment plans, and ongoing management of complex cases. The proximity of rheumatology specialists to Grassflat and the 16839 ZIP code influences the overall quality of care available to arthritis patients.

The availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services is equally important. These therapies can help patients manage pain, improve mobility, and maintain independence. Practices that offer these services, or have strong referral relationships with therapists, are better equipped to provide comprehensive arthritis care.

Another factor to consider is the availability of patient education resources. Arthritis patients benefit from understanding their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies. Practices that provide educational materials, support groups, and access to reliable information sources empower patients to take an active role in their care.

The cost of care is also a significant concern. The affordability of healthcare services, including physician visits, medications, and therapies, can impact access to care. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs can improve the accessibility of care for patients with arthritis.

The overall quality of care for arthritis patients in Grassflat and the 16839 ZIP code is influenced by a combination of factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialist access, and the availability of supportive services. Addressing the challenges related to physician shortages, improving access to specialized care, and promoting integrated care models are essential for improving outcomes for individuals with arthritis.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in the area, including the location of physicians, specialists, and healthcare facilities, consider exploring the CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide detailed geographic information, allowing for a visual assessment of healthcare resources and their accessibility.