17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 79.55 percent of the residents in 17239 has some form of health insurance. 31.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.48 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 17239 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 57 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17239. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 36 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,348 health care providers accessible to residents in 17239, Neelyton, Pennsylvania.

The task of crafting an "Arthritis Score" analysis for medical resources within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach, going beyond simple listings. This analysis will delve into the availability and quality of primary care and specialized arthritis treatment options for residents of ZIP Code 17239, focusing on Neelyton, Pennsylvania, while also examining the broader healthcare landscape. We will consider factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a call to action for a mapping tool.

The foundation of any assessment of healthcare access lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. In the context of Neelyton and the surrounding ZIP code 17239, the availability of primary care physicians is crucial. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, would present a significant hurdle for residents seeking initial diagnoses and ongoing management of arthritis. Researching the specific number of primary care physicians actively practicing within this ZIP code, compared to the population size, is the essential first step. This ratio needs to be compared to state and national averages to determine if Neelyton is experiencing a shortage or surplus of primary care providers.

Beyond primary care, access to rheumatologists, the specialists who diagnose and treat arthritis, is paramount. The geographic proximity of rheumatologists to Neelyton is a critical factor. Long travel times to see a specialist can negatively impact patient care, particularly for those with mobility limitations often associated with arthritis. Investigating the distance to the nearest rheumatology practices and the availability of appointments are vital components of the analysis. Furthermore, understanding the types of arthritis treated by available specialists is essential. Some rheumatologists specialize in specific forms of arthritis, and this specialization would need to be considered.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care provided. This involves examining patient reviews, if available, and assessing the use of evidence-based treatment protocols. Practices that consistently receive high ratings from patients, particularly those focusing on arthritis management, should be highlighted. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability, allowing for seamless information sharing between primary care physicians and specialists, is also an important factor. Practices that have adopted advanced technologies to improve patient care, such as computerized tomography scans, are also worth noting.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas like Neelyton. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care physicians and rheumatologists is a key indicator of healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for in-person visits and improving patient convenience. The availability of telemedicine options, including the types of services offered and the ease of use of the technology, should be carefully assessed.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into arthritis care is crucial. Assessing the availability of mental health services, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the primary care practices and rheumatology clinics in the area is essential. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or that have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, should be given priority.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and educational resources for arthritis patients should be investigated. Support groups provide patients with opportunities to connect with others who understand their experiences, offering emotional support and practical advice. Educational resources, such as brochures, websites, and classes, can empower patients to manage their condition effectively. Practices that actively promote patient education and support groups demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care.

The analysis should also consider the affordability of care. This includes examining the acceptance of various insurance plans by both primary care physicians and rheumatologists, as well as the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may struggle to afford their care. Transparency in pricing and the availability of cost estimates for procedures and medications are also important factors.

Finally, the overall accessibility of healthcare facilities, including physical accessibility for patients with mobility limitations, should be assessed. This includes evaluating the availability of wheelchair-accessible entrances, examination rooms, and restrooms. The availability of transportation options for patients who may not be able to drive themselves to appointments is also an important consideration.

In conclusion, a comprehensive "Arthritis Score" analysis for Neelyton, PA (ZIP Code 17239) requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialized rheumatology services, the quality of care provided by standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the affordability and accessibility of care. This analysis should be based on thorough research, including data collection from various sources, and should consider the unique needs of the community.

To visualize and understand the geographic distribution of these healthcare resources, from primary care physicians to rheumatologists and mental health providers, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the location of these providers, their proximity to Neelyton, and other relevant information. Explore CartoChrome maps to get a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape in your area.