17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania is 99 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17730 has some form of health insurance. 78.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 21.57 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 17730 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 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17730. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 40 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,174 health care providers accessible to residents in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Dewart, PA (ZIP Code 17730)

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care within the Dewart, PA (ZIP Code 17730) area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers not just the raw number of physicians but also their specialization, practice characteristics, access to care, and the broader healthcare ecosystem supporting patients with arthritis. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape for individuals managing this chronic condition. This analysis will also consider primary care availability, as it is the gateway for patients to access specialized care.

The primary challenge in assessing the arthritis care landscape in a specific ZIP code is the limited publicly available data. Precise physician counts, specialization breakdowns, and practice-specific details are often proprietary. Therefore, this analysis relies on publicly available resources, including online physician directories, insurance provider networks, and general demographic information, to construct a reasonable assessment. The "Arthritis Score" is thus a composite evaluation, considering various factors to provide a nuanced understanding.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios and Specialization:**

The first critical element is the physician-to-patient ratio. While the exact population of Dewart is important, it’s even more vital to understand the number of rheumatologists and primary care physicians (PCPs) serving the area and surrounding communities. A low ratio of rheumatologists, specialists in arthritis and related conditions, to the population indicates potential access limitations. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, increasing the time between symptom onset and diagnosis, and hindering timely treatment initiation. The presence of PCPs is also crucial. They often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing arthritis symptoms, providing initial assessments, ordering diagnostic tests, and referring patients to rheumatologists when necessary.

A significant factor is the presence of general practitioners (GPs) or family medicine doctors who possess experience and knowledge of arthritis management. These physicians can provide ongoing care, medication management, and patient education. The ratio of PCPs to the population directly impacts the ease of access to initial consultations and referrals. A high ratio suggests better access to primary care and, consequently, potentially faster identification and referral of arthritis cases.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact:**

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several aspects. These include the availability of comprehensive services, such as on-site physical therapy, diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs), and infusion centers. Practices that offer these services streamline the patient journey, reducing the need for multiple appointments at different locations and improving the overall experience.

Another critical element is the patient-centered approach. Practices that prioritize patient education, shared decision-making, and open communication are generally considered superior. This includes providing clear explanations of diagnoses, treatment options, and potential side effects, as well as actively involving patients in their care plans. The availability of support groups, educational materials, and patient portals can further enhance the patient experience.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a key indicator of a modern and efficient practice. EHRs facilitate better communication between physicians, improve care coordination, and allow patients to access their medical records and communicate with their care teams more easily.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Implications:**

Telemedicine has become increasingly relevant, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, via video conferencing or phone calls, offers several advantages. It can reduce the need for travel, especially for patients in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Telemedicine can also facilitate more frequent follow-up appointments and medication management, improving patient adherence to treatment plans.

The level of telemedicine adoption among physicians in the 17730 ZIP code is a crucial factor in the "Arthritis Score." Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and access to care. Factors to consider include the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities (e.g., tracking activity levels or symptom severity), and the use of patient portals for secure communication.

**Mental Health Resources and Their Significance:**

Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Pain, disability, and the challenges of managing a long-term illness can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive arthritis care.

The "Arthritis Score" must evaluate the accessibility of mental health services within the local healthcare ecosystem. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors who specialize in working with patients with chronic pain and related conditions. Ideally, practices should have established referral pathways to mental health professionals and offer integrated mental health services. The integration of mental health into arthritis care can improve patient outcomes, enhance quality of life, and support overall well-being.

**Conclusion and Call to Action:**

Evaluating the arthritis care landscape in Dewart, PA (ZIP Code 17730), requires a thorough analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, specialization, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. While this analysis provides a general overview, obtaining specific data on physician availability, practice details, and service offerings is crucial for a comprehensive assessment. This information is vital for patients seeking care and for healthcare providers striving to improve access and quality.

To gain a more granular understanding of the healthcare landscape in Dewart and surrounding areas, and to visualize physician locations, practice types, and service availability, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of healthcare providers, assess access to care, and make informed decisions about healthcare needs. Explore the possibilities of CartoChrome maps today to gain a clearer perspective on the healthcare environment in your community.