17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 68.38 percent of the residents in 17246 has some form of health insurance. 43.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.86 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 17246 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17246. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 57 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,974 health care providers accessible to residents in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Pleasant Hall (ZIP Code 17246)

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for physicians and primary care availability within ZIP Code 17246, focusing on factors crucial for individuals managing arthritis. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive overview, aiding residents in navigating the healthcare landscape and accessing optimal care.

The foundation of a strong Arthritis Score lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). Pleasant Hall, within the 17246 ZIP code, experiences a fluctuating population, influencing the physician-to-patient ratio. A favorable ratio, ideally below 1:1000, indicates a greater likelihood of timely appointments and personalized attention. Analyzing local healthcare data, including insurance provider networks and hospital affiliations, is critical to determine the current ratio accurately. This involves assessing the total number of PCPs actively practicing within the area and comparing it to the estimated population.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts the Arthritis Score. The presence of practices that prioritize preventative care, early diagnosis, and comprehensive patient education are highly valued. These practices often employ a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating nurses, physical therapists, and other specialists to provide holistic support. A practice that actively screens for arthritis symptoms during routine checkups and offers educational materials on disease management would score favorably.

Specialty care availability is another vital component. While PCPs are the initial point of contact, rheumatologists are essential for diagnosing and treating arthritis. The proximity and accessibility of rheumatologists within or near the 17246 ZIP code directly impact the Arthritis Score. Long wait times for specialist appointments and the need to travel significant distances for care negatively affect the score. The analysis will explore the number of practicing rheumatologists in the area, their appointment availability, and their affiliations with local hospitals.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly important, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis. Practices that offer telehealth options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education score higher. Telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel, improve access to care for those with mobility limitations, and facilitate more frequent communication between patients and their healthcare providers. The analysis will investigate the extent of telemedicine integration within the local healthcare system, including the types of services offered and the ease of access.

The Arthritis Score also considers the availability of mental health resources. Living with arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Healthcare practices that recognize this connection and offer integrated mental health services or readily available referrals to mental health professionals receive higher scores. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups specializing in chronic pain and arthritis management. The analysis will assess the presence of these resources within the practices and the broader community.

Standout practices within the 17246 ZIP code are identified based on their commitment to comprehensive arthritis care. These practices often demonstrate excellence in several key areas, including:

* **Patient-centered care:** Prioritizing patient needs, preferences, and values in treatment decisions.
* **Early diagnosis and intervention:** Implementing screening protocols and providing timely access to specialist care.
* **Multidisciplinary approach:** Collaborating with a team of healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.
* **Patient education and empowerment:** Providing patients with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their condition effectively.
* **Telemedicine integration:** Utilizing technology to improve access to care and enhance patient communication.
* **Mental health support:** Recognizing the importance of mental well-being and providing access to mental health resources.

The identification of these standout practices is crucial for guiding individuals with arthritis toward the best possible care.

The overall Arthritis Score for the 17246 ZIP code will be a composite score based on the factors discussed above. It will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of arthritis care available in the area. The higher the score, the better the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis. This score is not absolute but serves as a relative measure, allowing for comparisons and highlighting areas for improvement.

The analysis will also consider the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services. These therapies are essential for managing pain, improving mobility, and maintaining function in individuals with arthritis. The analysis will assess the number of physical and occupational therapists practicing in the area, their specialties, and their affiliations with local healthcare providers.

Furthermore, the analysis will explore the availability of support groups and educational programs for individuals with arthritis. These resources provide valuable opportunities for patients to connect with others, share experiences, and learn coping strategies. The analysis will identify local support groups, educational workshops, and online resources that are available to residents of the 17246 ZIP code.

Ultimately, the goal of this Arthritis Score analysis is to provide a clear and concise overview of the healthcare landscape in Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system, individuals with arthritis can make informed decisions about their care and advocate for improvements in the community. The analysis will be updated periodically to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape, ensuring that the information remains current and relevant.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Pleasant Hall and visualize the data discussed in this analysis, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visually compelling representation of healthcare resources, physician locations, and other relevant data, allowing for a deeper understanding of the local healthcare environment.