17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.47 percent of the residents in 17090 has some form of health insurance. 40.32 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.95 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 17090 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,092 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 124 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17090. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 988 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 24,084 health care providers accessible to residents in 17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17090 and Primary Care in Shermans Dale

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania, specifically considering the context of ZIP Code 17090. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" reflecting the ease of access to, and the quality of, primary care services, crucial for individuals managing arthritis and related conditions. The score considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors impacting the overall patient experience.

The primary challenge in Shermans Dale, and indeed much of rural Pennsylvania, is the potential for limited access to healthcare professionals. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a less comprehensive approach to patient care. While precise, up-to-the-minute data on this ratio requires specialized healthcare analytics, the general trend in rural areas suggests a potential scarcity of PCPs. This scarcity is further compounded by the aging population in many rural communities, including Shermans Dale, where the prevalence of arthritis is likely to be higher than in younger populations.

The nature of the medical practices themselves significantly impacts the "Arthritis Score." Are practices accepting new patients? Are they multi-specialty, offering in-house access to rheumatologists or other specialists crucial for arthritis management? The presence of physical therapy services, diagnostic imaging capabilities (X-ray, etc.), and access to on-site pharmacy services all contribute to a higher score. A practice that offers a more integrated approach, minimizing the need for patients to travel to multiple locations for different services, receives a more favorable assessment.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into patient reviews, online reputation, and potentially, interviews with local residents. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback regarding physician empathy, thoroughness of examinations, and ease of communication would be considered high-scoring. The presence of specialized programs for chronic disease management, including arthritis, would also be a significant positive factor. Such programs often incorporate patient education, self-management strategies, and regular monitoring, all of which are essential for effective arthritis care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in areas with limited access to care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of vital signs, and online patient portals receive a higher score. Telemedicine can significantly reduce the burden on patients, especially those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges, which are common among individuals with arthritis. It allows for more frequent check-ins, medication adjustments, and timely interventions, potentially preventing exacerbations of the condition.

The integration of mental health resources into primary care is another crucial element. Arthritis can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that have integrated behavioral health specialists, offer on-site counseling, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals receive a higher score. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of their condition.

The "Arthritis Score" for Shermans Dale, and specifically for the doctors practicing in ZIP Code 17090, is therefore a composite measure. It reflects the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of the medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is accessible, patient-centered, and well-equipped to manage the complexities of arthritis. A low score suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive care, requiring patients to navigate longer wait times, travel further for specialized services, and potentially, experience a less integrated approach to their healthcare needs.

Assessing the availability of specialized care is also vital. While this analysis focuses on primary care, the proximity and accessibility of rheumatologists, orthopedic surgeons, and other specialists are crucial for effective arthritis management. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable distance, or the existence of strong referral networks, contributes positively to the overall "Arthritis Score."

The role of insurance coverage also cannot be overlooked. The acceptance of a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, is critical for ensuring that all residents, regardless of their financial circumstances, have access to care. Practices that are known for their willingness to work with patients on payment plans or offer financial assistance programs receive a higher score.

Further investigation into the specific practices within ZIP Code 17090 would involve gathering data on the number of PCPs practicing in the area, their patient panels, their acceptance of new patients, and their adoption of telemedicine. Patient reviews and online reputation would be analyzed to assess the quality of care provided. The availability of mental health resources and the presence of specialized programs for chronic disease management would also be evaluated.

In conclusion, the "Arthritis Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 17090 and primary care availability in Shermans Dale is likely to be influenced by the rural nature of the area. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of the medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play a crucial role in determining the score. A comprehensive assessment would require a detailed analysis of the local healthcare landscape, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Shermans Dale and surrounding areas, including the location of medical practices, the availability of specialists, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.