17247, Quincy, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17247, Quincy, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 66.83 percent of the residents in 17247 has some form of health insurance. 66.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.89 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 17247 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 7 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17247. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 280 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,627 health care providers accessible to residents in 17247, Quincy, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below focuses on the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 17247 ZIP code, specifically evaluating their potential impact on patients with arthritis. This assessment considers factors relevant to arthritis management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health support, all within the context of Quincy, Pennsylvania.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can potentially limit the time a doctor has available for each patient, impacting the thoroughness of examinations and the development of personalized treatment plans, crucial for arthritis sufferers. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), can offer estimates of physician density within the 17247 area. Comparing this density to national or state averages provides a benchmark for assessing the local landscape. A lower-than-average physician-to-patient ratio, ideally, suggests better access and potentially more comprehensive care.

Standout practices, in the context of arthritis management, are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. This includes a multi-faceted approach encompassing accurate diagnosis, effective pain management, physical therapy referrals, and patient education. Practices that actively utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, share information with specialists, and facilitate medication management are often better positioned to provide coordinated care. Furthermore, practices that have a dedicated focus on rheumatology, even if not a dedicated rheumatologist, or have physicians with a special interest in musculoskeletal issues, can be considered particularly valuable for arthritis patients.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in more rural areas. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, offering both video and phone consultations, are better equipped to provide accessible care. The availability of remote monitoring tools, such as wearable sensors that track activity levels and pain, further enhances the potential of telemedicine in arthritis management.

Mental health resources are a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or readily available referrals to mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers ensures a coordinated approach to care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the disease.

Within Quincy, identifying practices that excel in these areas is essential. This requires a deeper dive into individual practice websites, patient reviews, and, ideally, direct contact with the practices themselves. Questions to consider include: What is the practice's approach to pain management? Does the practice offer physical therapy services or have strong referral relationships with local physical therapists? What telemedicine options are available? Does the practice have a dedicated mental health professional or offer mental health referrals?

The level of detail available on practice websites and through patient reviews varies. Websites should clearly outline the services offered, the physicians' areas of expertise, and the practice's philosophy of care. Patient reviews, while often subjective, can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including wait times, the physician-patient relationship, and the overall quality of care. However, it is important to consider the source of the reviews and to view them with a critical eye.

The availability of specialists, particularly rheumatologists, is another key factor. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for arthritis patients, access to a rheumatologist is essential for diagnosis, complex treatment plans, and management of more severe forms of the disease. The proximity of rheumatology specialists and the ease of referral from primary care practices are crucial considerations. The absence of a local rheumatologist necessitates travel, which can be a significant burden for patients with limited mobility.

Assessing the overall ‘Arthritis Score’ for doctors in 17247 requires integrating all these factors. A practice receives a higher score if it has a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, a demonstrated commitment to comprehensive arthritis care, a robust telemedicine program, and integrated mental health resources. The availability of specialist referrals also contributes to the overall score.

The specific practices within 17247 will vary in their strengths and weaknesses. Some may excel in telemedicine adoption, while others may have stronger referral networks. It is unlikely that any single practice will score perfectly across all criteria. The goal is to identify the practices that best meet the needs of arthritis patients based on their individual circumstances and preferences.

The overall assessment of primary care availability in Quincy, Pennsylvania, for arthritis patients reveals a complex landscape. While the presence of primary care physicians is a starting point, the quality of care is determined by a multitude of factors. The ideal scenario involves a sufficient number of physicians, practices committed to comprehensive care, accessible telemedicine options, integrated mental health support, and readily available specialist referrals. The reality is likely a mix of strengths and weaknesses across different practices.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in 17247 and to identify the practices that best meet your needs, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform can help you visualize physician locations, analyze demographics, and assess access to care, all within the specific context of Quincy.