17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.90 percent of the residents in 17255 has some form of health insurance. 49.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.27 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 17255 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 279 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17255. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 314 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,791 health care providers accessible to residents in 17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17255 & Primary Care in Shade Gap

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians in Shade Gap, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17255), focusing on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. We will explore physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and examine the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements for comprehensive arthritis care.

Shade Gap, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The limited population base, coupled with its rural setting, likely impacts the availability of specialized medical services, including rheumatology, which is critical for arthritis management. The analysis will therefore center on primary care physicians (PCPs), who often serve as the initial point of contact for patients experiencing arthritis symptoms and can provide ongoing care coordination.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access. In a rural area like Shade Gap, a lower physician-to-patient ratio is desirable. This means fewer patients per doctor, allowing for more individualized attention and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. Publicly available data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) can be used to estimate these ratios, considering the population of Shade Gap and the number of active PCPs practicing within the 17255 ZIP code. A high ratio could signal a significant barrier to timely care, particularly for a condition like arthritis, where early diagnosis and intervention are essential to prevent disease progression.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the quality of care offered. This involves examining factors beyond physician numbers. We need to assess the practices’ patient satisfaction ratings, which can be found through online reviews, patient surveys, and potentially from state-level healthcare quality reports. Consider the practice’s approach to chronic disease management, including arthritis. Does the practice have a dedicated care coordinator or a nurse specializing in chronic disease management? Are they actively involved in patient education about arthritis, including lifestyle modifications, medication management, and physical therapy?

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, especially in rural areas where travel distances can be a significant barrier to care. The availability of telehealth appointments, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve access to care for arthritis patients. This is particularly relevant for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide a more convenient and accessible level of care, reducing the burden on patients who may experience mobility limitations due to their condition.

Mental health resources are another crucial component of comprehensive arthritis care. Arthritis can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. Primary care practices should ideally integrate mental health services into their care model. This could include on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or collaborations with local mental health organizations. The availability of these resources ensures that patients receive holistic care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of their condition.

The analysis would also consider the availability of ancillary services that support arthritis management. This includes access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rheumatology specialists, although the latter may be limited in a rural setting. The ability of PCPs to readily refer patients to these specialists and the coordination between the PCP and these specialists are crucial for comprehensive care.

The practices’ adherence to evidence-based guidelines for arthritis management is another important factor. This involves assessing whether the practices follow established treatment protocols for various types of arthritis, including the use of appropriate medications, diagnostic testing, and lifestyle recommendations. Practices that adhere to these guidelines are more likely to provide high-quality care.

Furthermore, the analysis will consider the practice’s approach to patient education. Do the practices provide educational materials about arthritis, including information about the disease, treatment options, and self-management strategies? Are there support groups or educational programs available for patients? Patient education empowers individuals to take an active role in managing their condition, leading to improved outcomes.

Finally, the analysis would consider the practices’ use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs can improve care coordination, facilitate communication between providers, and allow for the tracking of patient outcomes. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are often better equipped to manage chronic conditions like arthritis.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of primary care for arthritis patients in Shade Gap (17255) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider physician-to-patient ratios, patient satisfaction, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, access to ancillary services, adherence to guidelines, and patient education. A comprehensive assessment will identify areas of strength and weakness, providing valuable insights for patients seeking care and healthcare providers looking to improve their services.

For a more detailed visualization of healthcare accessibility in Shade Gap and the surrounding areas, including the location of practices, specialist availability, and potential travel times, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that can help you identify the healthcare resources that best meet your needs.