Health Scores Near 17729, Cross Fork, Pennsylvania
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The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17729, Cross Fork, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 94.29 percent of the residents in 17729 has some form of health insurance. 53.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.90 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 17729 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17729. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 50 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1 health care providers accessible to residents in 17729, Cross Fork, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 17729, Cross Fork, Pennsylvania
| Arthritis Score | 48 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 94 |
| Provider Score | 22 |
| Hospital Score | 58 |
| Travel Score | 15 |
| 17729 | Cross Fork | Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17729 and Primary Care Availability in Cross Fork
This analysis provides an “Arthritis Score” assessment for the medical landscape in ZIP Code 17729, focusing on primary care availability in the specific community of Cross Fork. The score, though not a formal, standardized metric, reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of healthcare services relevant to individuals managing arthritis. It considers factors like physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for effective arthritis management.
The geographic isolation of Cross Fork, nestled within ZIP Code 17729, presents unique challenges. Rural communities often face shortages of primary care physicians, specialists, and ancillary services, impacting the ability of individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis to receive timely and comprehensive care.
**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**
A critical component of the Arthritis Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. Data suggests that the ratio in ZIP Code 17729, and particularly in the more sparsely populated areas like Cross Fork, likely leans towards a higher patient-to-physician ratio compared to urban centers. This means each primary care physician (PCP) and specialist, such as a rheumatologist, is responsible for a larger patient population. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient during consultations, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments for those with arthritis. Precise data on the exact ratio would require a detailed analysis of physician demographics and patient demographics within the ZIP code, a task beyond the scope of this general assessment. However, based on general trends, the ratio is likely a limiting factor in the overall Arthritis Score.
**Standout Practices and Specialists:**
Identifying “standout practices” requires a nuanced evaluation. In a rural setting, the definition of "standout" may differ from that in a city. A practice might be considered exceptional simply for its commitment to serving the community, even if it lacks the resources of larger urban facilities. The presence of a dedicated primary care practice within a reasonable driving distance of Cross Fork is a significant positive factor. The availability of a rheumatologist, even if it involves travel to a larger town or city, is also critical. Rheumatologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Their expertise is essential for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment plans, and ongoing management of arthritis symptoms. Without direct access to a rheumatologist, patients may rely on their PCPs for arthritis care, potentially leading to less specialized treatment. Any practice demonstrating a patient-centered approach, with a focus on education, support, and shared decision-making, would contribute positively to the Arthritis Score.
**Telemedicine Adoption:**
Telemedicine offers a promising solution to the challenges of rural healthcare access. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide educational resources can significantly improve the Arthritis Score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication management, and patient education, are scoring higher. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as those that track activity levels or pain scores, further enhances the score. The success of telemedicine, however, depends on reliable internet connectivity, a significant challenge in some rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to expanding access to care.
**Mental Health Resources:**
Arthritis is not just a physical condition; it can significantly impact mental health. Chronic pain, limitations in mobility, and the overall burden of managing a chronic illness can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The Arthritis Score considers the availability of mental health resources crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, contribute positively to the score. The availability of support groups, online forums, and educational materials addressing the psychological aspects of arthritis also enhances the score. Addressing the mental health needs of arthritis patients is essential for overall well-being and improved disease management.
**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**
Based on the factors discussed, the Arthritis Score for the Cross Fork area, within ZIP Code 17729, likely falls in the mid-range. The challenges of rural healthcare, including potentially limited physician availability, the need for travel to see specialists, and the impact of unreliable internet connectivity, are likely to lower the score. However, practices that have embraced telemedicine, prioritize patient education, and integrate mental health resources will significantly improve the score. The presence of dedicated primary care providers, even if they are limited in number, is a crucial positive factor. The overall score reflects the complex interplay of accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care, all of which are vital for individuals managing arthritis. Further research, including gathering specific data on physician numbers, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption rates, and mental health service integration, would be needed to provide a more precise and comprehensive score.
If you're interested in gaining a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17729, including the location of medical facilities, the availability of specialists, and the potential impact of geographic barriers on access to care, we recommend exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps can help you visualize the data and gain valuable insights into the realities of healthcare access in this rural community.
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