17223, Fort Littleton, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17223, Fort Littleton, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.61 percent of the residents in 17223 has some form of health insurance. 40.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.55 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 17223 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 64 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17223. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 31 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,341 health care providers accessible to residents in 17223, Fort Littleton, Pennsylvania.

This analysis delves into the availability of healthcare resources, specifically focusing on arthritis care and primary care access within the ZIP code 17223 and the town of Fort Littleton, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, considering various factors crucial for patients managing arthritis and seeking comprehensive primary care. This score will be a qualitative assessment based on the available data and insights.

**Arthritis Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17223 & Fort Littleton**

ZIP code 17223, encompassing the town of Fort Littleton, is a primarily rural area. Healthcare access in such regions often faces unique challenges compared to urban centers. A key factor is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas, this ratio tends to be lower, meaning fewer doctors are available to serve a larger population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialists, and increased travel distances for patients. Assessing the specific physician-to-patient ratio within 17223 is crucial for determining the baseline healthcare availability. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into these ratios, allowing for a preliminary score.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of accessible healthcare. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing preventive care, managing chronic conditions like arthritis, and coordinating specialist referrals. The presence of a sufficient number of PCPs in Fort Littleton and the surrounding areas directly impacts the Arthritis Score. Factors to consider include the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the types of insurance they accept, and their proximity to the population. This information can be gathered through online directories, insurance provider websites, and direct calls to local practices.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care. This includes having physicians with specialized training in rheumatology or experience in managing arthritis, offering on-site diagnostic services like X-rays and blood tests, and providing access to physical therapy and other supportive services. Identifying such practices within or near 17223 would significantly boost the Arthritis Score. Researching the services offered by each practice, reading patient reviews, and assessing their affiliations with hospitals and specialists are all critical steps.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations. The availability of telemedicine services for arthritis management and primary care within 17223 would positively influence the Arthritis Score. Investigating which practices offer telemedicine options, the types of services provided via telemedicine, and the ease of use of the platforms are all essential.

Mental health resources play a vital role in managing chronic conditions like arthritis. The physical pain and limitations associated with arthritis can often lead to mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within or near 17223 is a significant factor in the Arthritis Score. Assessing the number of mental health providers, their specialties, and their acceptance of insurance is crucial. Furthermore, the integration of mental health services within primary care practices or arthritis clinics would be a highly favorable factor.

Specific examples of practices that excel in these areas would significantly improve the Arthritis Score. Identifying practices that have rheumatologists on staff, offer on-site physical therapy, and actively utilize telemedicine would be highly advantageous. Practices that have integrated mental health services into their care models would also be highly valued. This requires in-depth research, including reviewing practice websites, contacting practices directly, and examining patient reviews.

The overall Arthritis Score for 17223 and Fort Littleton would be a composite assessment, weighing the factors discussed above. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a greater likelihood of positive health outcomes for arthritis patients and those seeking primary care. A lower score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and a lack of telemedicine or mental health resources.

To improve the Arthritis Score, several strategies could be employed. Recruiting more primary care physicians and specialists, particularly rheumatologists, would be a priority. Expanding telemedicine services would enhance access to care for patients in remote areas. Integrating mental health services into primary care practices and arthritis clinics would address the often-overlooked mental health needs of patients. Supporting community-based programs that provide education and support for arthritis patients could also be beneficial.

The quality of care extends beyond the availability of physicians and services. The patient experience, including wait times, the ease of scheduling appointments, and the overall communication between patients and providers, is also critical. Patient reviews and feedback can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by different practices.

The analysis should also consider the presence of support groups and educational resources for arthritis patients. Access to these resources can empower patients to manage their condition effectively and improve their quality of life. The availability of these resources would positively influence the Arthritis Score.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape in 17223 and Fort Littleton requires a multifaceted approach. The Arthritis Score is a dynamic assessment, reflecting the evolving healthcare environment. The ongoing collection of data and regular updates are essential for providing an accurate and useful evaluation of healthcare access and resources.

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