17309, Brogue, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17309, Brogue, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.09 percent of the residents in 17309 has some form of health insurance. 32.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.59 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 17309 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 526 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17309. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 340 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,097 health care providers accessible to residents in 17309, Brogue, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17309 and Primary Care Availability in Brogue

This analysis delves into the landscape of primary care physicians within ZIP code 17309, encompassing Brogue, Pennsylvania, with a specific focus on their capacity to address the needs of patients with arthritis. The assessment considers factors crucial for effective arthritis management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of integrated mental health resources.

Understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is fundamental. ZIP code 17309, a primarily rural area, likely faces challenges in physician access compared to more urban centers. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from healthcare directories, would provide the most accurate calculation of this ratio. A low physician-to-patient ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can translate into longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialized care, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment for arthritis. This scarcity can significantly impact the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate care.

Within the existing primary care practices, the organizational structure and specialization of the physicians are critical. Some practices may be single-physician operations, while others operate as larger group practices. Larger group practices often offer a broader range of services, including on-site physical therapy, laboratory testing, and access to specialists. These integrated services are particularly beneficial for arthritis patients, who frequently require a multidisciplinary approach to manage their condition. The presence of rheumatologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists within or affiliated with the primary care practices is a significant advantage.

Standout practices in 17309 would demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, focusing on comprehensive arthritis management. This includes offering detailed patient education materials, actively involving patients in treatment decisions, and providing support for lifestyle modifications, such as exercise and diet. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively can improve care coordination and communication between different healthcare providers, leading to better patient outcomes. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to arthritis demonstrate a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in treatment.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant factor in improving access to care, particularly in rural areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, saving patients time and travel expenses. Telemedicine can be particularly useful for managing chronic conditions like arthritis, allowing physicians to monitor patients' symptoms, adjust medications, and provide support remotely. The availability of telehealth services can also connect patients with specialists who may not be readily available in the local area.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of arthritis care. Chronic pain and disability associated with arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Primary care practices that have established relationships with mental health professionals, either through on-site services or referral networks, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This integrated approach helps ensure that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of their condition.

The availability of support groups and educational programs for arthritis patients is also important. These resources provide patients with opportunities to connect with others who understand their challenges, share experiences, and learn coping strategies. Practices that actively promote and support these resources demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to manage their condition effectively.

Analyzing the availability of these resources involves a multi-faceted approach. This would include reviewing practice websites, contacting practices directly to inquire about their services, and consulting patient reviews and testimonials. Public health data, such as the availability of Medicare and Medicaid providers, can also provide insights into access to care for different patient populations.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for primary care in 17309 would be a composite measure based on these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable environment for arthritis patients, characterized by a high physician-to-patient ratio, integrated services, telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and patient education. A low score would suggest potential challenges in accessing and receiving comprehensive arthritis care.

The primary care landscape in Brogue, Pennsylvania, within ZIP code 17309, likely presents unique challenges. The rural nature of the area may limit the availability of specialists and specialized resources. However, practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology, and integrate mental health support can significantly improve the quality of life for arthritis patients in this community.

For a comprehensive, visually-driven analysis of the healthcare landscape in 17309, including the location of practices, physician specialties, and access to resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and pinpoint opportunities for improvement.