17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.18 percent of the residents in 17094 has some form of health insurance. 39.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.37 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 17094 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 651 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 9 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17094. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 566 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,550 health care providers accessible to residents in 17094, Thompsontown, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17094 and Primary Care in Thompsontown

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 17094, focusing on the presence and performance of physicians, and extending to the primary care landscape in the nearby town of Thompsontown, which is crucial for initial assessments and ongoing management of arthritis. We’ll examine key metrics, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical factors influencing the overall "Arthritis Score" for this region.

ZIP code 17094, encompassing the town of Mifflintown, Pennsylvania, presents a unique challenge due to its rural nature. This geographic characteristic directly impacts healthcare access. The first consideration is the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically for rheumatologists, the specialists who diagnose and treat arthritis. A low ratio, meaning fewer rheumatologists for the population size, immediately lowers the Arthritis Score. We need to determine the number of practicing rheumatologists within 17094, or within a reasonable driving distance, and compare that to the estimated population of the area. This ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to specialized care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care in Thompsontown is paramount. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing joint pain and other arthritis symptoms. Their ability to accurately diagnose, or at least identify the need for specialist referral, significantly impacts the patient's journey. A strong primary care network in Thompsontown, with PCPs knowledgeable about arthritis and capable of initiating appropriate treatment or referrals, boosts the Arthritis Score. Conversely, a weak or overburdened primary care system can lead to delayed diagnoses and poorer patient outcomes.

Identifying standout practices within and around 17094 is crucial. These practices might be characterized by their patient-centered approach, the use of innovative treatment modalities, or their commitment to ongoing patient education. Examining patient reviews, looking for mentions of specific treatments, and assessing the availability of support staff (e.g., physical therapists, occupational therapists) can help identify these high-performing practices. The presence of certified rheumatology nurses and other specialized staff can also elevate a practice’s score.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. In a rural area like 17094, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and provide patients with access to specialists who might otherwise be inaccessible. The Arthritis Score benefits from practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. The ease of scheduling virtual appointments, the availability of electronic prescriptions, and the overall user-friendliness of the telemedicine platform are all important considerations.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact a patient’s emotional well-being. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of the Arthritis Score. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in chronic pain management and the psychological impact of illness. Practices that integrate mental health services, either in-house or through referrals, receive a higher score.

Further assessment involves the availability of support groups and educational programs. These resources empower patients with knowledge about their condition and provide a sense of community. Practices that actively promote support groups, offer patient education materials, and participate in community outreach programs contribute positively to the Arthritis Score.

The integration of technology beyond telemedicine is also important. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, allowing for seamless information sharing between providers, contribute to a higher score. The ability to access patient records, track treatment progress, and communicate with patients efficiently is a significant advantage.

Finally, the affordability of care is a crucial factor. The Arthritis Score is influenced by the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the transparency of pricing. Practices that are transparent about their fees and offer options for patients with limited financial resources score higher.

In conclusion, evaluating the Arthritis Score for 17094 and Thompsontown requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the strength of the primary care network, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the affordability of care all contribute to the overall score. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of arthritis care in this region.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data points, consider exploring the area using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a powerful visualization of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to identify areas of strength and weakness and to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.