16840, Hawk Run, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 16840, Hawk Run, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16840 has some form of health insurance. 39.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.69 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 16840 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 123 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16840. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 64 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,655 health care providers accessible to residents in 16840, Hawk Run, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16840 and Primary Care in Hawk Run

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in the 16840 ZIP code, focusing on the specific needs of individuals managing arthritis. We will consider factors relevant to arthritis patients, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice strengths, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health resources. The geographical focus extends to Hawk Run, Pennsylvania, a community within this ZIP code, to gauge the accessibility of care for its residents.

The 16840 ZIP code encompasses Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas. Determining the exact number of practicing PCPs within this area is the first crucial step. Publicly available databases, such as the Pennsylvania Department of State's licensing information and national physician directories, offer initial insights. However, these sources may not always reflect real-time availability, including factors like retirement, relocation, or specialization. A comprehensive analysis requires cross-referencing multiple sources and potentially contacting local healthcare facilities directly.

Physician-to-patient ratios are vital. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and decreased access to specialized care. The national average physician-to-patient ratio serves as a benchmark. Comparing the 16840 ZIP code's ratio to this average allows us to gauge the relative accessibility of care. Rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, potentially leading to a less favorable ratio compared to more urban settings.

Identifying standout practices within the 16840 area requires examining several factors. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, offer extended hours, and demonstrate a commitment to chronic disease management are highly valued. Reviews from patients, available on platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews, provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Look for practices with positive ratings, emphasizing clear communication, empathy, and effective treatment plans. Specific attention should be paid to practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to arthritis management, such as offering specialized arthritis education programs or collaborating with rheumatologists.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among PCPs in the 16840 ZIP code is crucial. This includes evaluating the types of telemedicine platforms used (e.g., secure video conferencing, phone consultations), the ease of access, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to improving patient convenience and access to care.

The interplay between arthritis and mental health is significant. Chronic pain and the limitations associated with arthritis can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is highly desirable. Assessing the availability of on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, and the use of screening tools for mental health conditions are all critical aspects of this analysis. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide comprehensive support are better equipped to serve the needs of arthritis patients.

Focusing on Hawk Run specifically, the analysis needs to consider the accessibility of primary care services within the community. This involves evaluating the proximity of PCP offices, the availability of transportation options, and the potential impact of geographic barriers. Residents of Hawk Run may face unique challenges in accessing care, particularly if they rely on public transportation or have limited mobility. The analysis should identify any initiatives to address these challenges, such as mobile clinics or partnerships with community organizations.

The assessment should also consider the availability of specialists, such as rheumatologists, in the broader region. While PCPs provide primary care, arthritis often requires specialized management. The ease of access to rheumatologists, including wait times for appointments and the availability of transportation, significantly impacts the quality of care. Strong referral networks between PCPs and rheumatologists are essential for ensuring seamless transitions and coordinated care.

Furthermore, the analysis must account for the availability of support services, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management clinics. These services play a vital role in managing the symptoms of arthritis and improving patients' quality of life. The proximity of these services, the availability of qualified therapists, and the integration of these services into the overall care plan are important considerations.

The final Arthritis Score for the 16840 ZIP code and the specific focus on Hawk Run would be a composite score, reflecting the weighted importance of each factor. The weighting should reflect the priorities of arthritis patients, such as access to care, quality of care, and the integration of mental health resources. The score would provide a valuable tool for patients seeking to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

This analysis, however, is limited by the availability of public data. A more in-depth assessment would require access to detailed practice information, patient surveys, and direct communication with healthcare providers. This is where tools like CartoChrome maps can prove invaluable.