Health Scores Near 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania
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The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 84.97 percent of the residents in 17048 has some form of health insurance. 34.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.28 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 17048 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 988 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17048. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 650 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,112 health care providers accessible to residents in 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania
| Arthritis Score | 18 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 20 |
| Provider Score | 29 |
| Hospital Score | 65 |
| Travel Score | 26 |
| 17048 | Lykens | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The analysis below provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania, focusing on factors relevant to arthritis management. This score is not a definitive medical rating but a composite evaluation based on publicly available data, accessibility metrics, and observed practice characteristics. The goal is to offer a nuanced perspective for individuals seeking arthritis care in the area.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratio & Access**
Lykens, and the surrounding 17048 ZIP code, is a rural area. This geographical reality significantly impacts healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. Analyzing the number of active PCPs practicing within the specified ZIP code, and comparing this to the total population, provides a preliminary understanding of potential wait times and overall access to care. A lower ratio (fewer doctors per capita) suggests greater potential challenges in securing timely appointments. The data must be regularly updated as physician availability changes.
The physical location of practices is also a factor. If the majority of PCPs are clustered in one area, it can create difficulties for patients in more remote parts of the ZIP code. Transportation limitations, especially for those with mobility issues common in arthritis, can exacerbate these challenges. Public transportation options, or the lack thereof, further influence accessibility.
**Standout Practices: A Holistic Approach**
Identifying practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care is essential. This goes beyond simply seeing patients; it involves a holistic approach. Practices that actively incorporate physical therapy, occupational therapy, and potentially rheumatology referrals are highly valued. The availability of on-site or readily accessible diagnostic imaging (X-rays, etc.) streamlines the diagnosis and monitoring process.
Practices that actively participate in patient education programs, providing resources on disease management, lifestyle modifications, and medication adherence, are also considered favorably. Some practices may have dedicated nurses or medical assistants who specialize in arthritis care, providing additional support and guidance to patients. The willingness to collaborate with other healthcare providers, such as specialists and support groups, is another key indicator of a patient-centered approach.
**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**
Telemedicine has emerged as a crucial tool for expanding healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, receive a higher "Arthritis Score." This is especially beneficial for patients who struggle with transportation or have mobility limitations.
The quality of telemedicine services is also important. Does the practice use a secure and user-friendly platform? Are physicians adequately trained in conducting virtual examinations? Do they offer remote monitoring capabilities, such as tracking patient symptoms or medication adherence? The integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan significantly impacts the score.
**Mental Health Resources: Addressing the Whole Person**
Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental well-being. Pain, mobility limitations, and the overall burden of the disease can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this and provide access to mental health resources are highly rated.
This can include on-site counseling services, referrals to therapists or psychiatrists, or partnerships with mental health organizations. Practices that routinely screen patients for mental health concerns and proactively address these issues demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. The availability of support groups or educational programs focused on managing the psychological aspects of arthritis further enhances the score.
**Specific Considerations for 17048**
Due to the rural nature of Lykens and the 17048 ZIP code, the "Arthritis Score" is adjusted to reflect the unique challenges of providing care in this environment. The score emphasizes the importance of practices that are actively working to overcome geographical barriers and provide accessible care.
This includes practices that actively participate in community outreach programs, partnering with local organizations to provide educational resources and support. Practices that are open to accepting new patients, especially those with arthritis, are also considered favorably. The ability to communicate effectively with patients, including providing information in multiple languages if needed, is also a factor.
**Data Collection and Analysis Methodology**
The "Arthritis Score" is based on a combination of publicly available data sources, including physician directories, insurance provider websites, and government health databases. Data on practice locations, physician availability, and services offered is gathered and analyzed. Information on telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient reviews is also considered.
The scoring methodology assigns weights to different factors based on their relative importance. For example, access to care and the availability of telemedicine services are given higher weights in a rural setting. The score is regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, and healthcare trends.
**Conclusion**
The "Arthritis Score" for doctors in ZIP code 17048, Lykens, Pennsylvania, provides a valuable framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of arthritis care in the area. While this analysis is not a substitute for medical advice, it offers a comprehensive overview of the factors that contribute to a patient-centered approach. The availability of PCPs, the incorporation of telemedicine, and the provision of mental health resources are crucial components of effective arthritis management.
For a detailed visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, explore the CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a powerful tool for navigating the healthcare landscape and making informed decisions about your arthritis care.
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