17731, Eagles Mere, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17731, Eagles Mere, Pennsylvania is 86 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.84 percent of the residents in 17731 has some form of health insurance. 58.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.70 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 17731 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 17 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17731. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 62 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 443 health care providers accessible to residents in 17731, Eagles Mere, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17731 and Primary Care in Eagles Mere

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 17731, focusing on the Eagles Mere area, considering primary care physician (PCP) accessibility, and related healthcare resources. We aim to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, although a formal numerical score is not provided due to the complexities of real-world data. Instead, we offer a qualitative evaluation of the landscape.

The core of effective arthritis management relies on a strong foundation of primary care. In Eagles Mere, a small, rural community, primary care availability significantly impacts the overall healthcare ecosystem. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A lower ratio (fewer patients per doctor) generally suggests better access and potentially more personalized care. However, in rural settings, this can be skewed by factors like part-time practices or the presence of specialists who also see primary care patients. Publicly available data on physician-to-patient ratios in 17731 is often limited, requiring us to infer from available information and anecdotal evidence. We can assess the number of primary care providers in the area and estimate the population they serve, but this doesn't fully reflect factors like appointment wait times or the specific expertise of the physicians.

The presence of standout practices is a key aspect of the "Arthritis Score." We look for practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly those with a focus on musculoskeletal health. This includes practices that offer comprehensive services, such as physical therapy, diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs), and on-site laboratory services. Practices that actively participate in patient education programs, support groups, or clinical trials related to arthritis management are also highly valued. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to staying abreast of the latest advancements in arthritis treatment. Identifying these standout practices requires examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and information from local healthcare organizations. It is important to note that such information may not be readily available or easily accessible for a small, rural area.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to specialists. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially expediting access to care. The availability of telemedicine services for arthritis management, including consultations with rheumatologists or physical therapists, significantly enhances the "Arthritis Score." We assess the availability of telemedicine options by examining physician websites, online directories, and information from local healthcare providers. The ease of use and technical support provided for telemedicine platforms are also crucial factors.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of arthritis care, but they are essential. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who specialize in chronic pain management is a critical component of a comprehensive "Arthritis Score." We evaluate the availability of these resources by researching local mental health providers, examining partnerships between primary care practices and mental health services, and assessing the availability of support groups and educational programs. The integration of mental health services within the primary care setting is particularly beneficial, facilitating a more holistic approach to patient care.

In the context of Eagles Mere and ZIP code 17731, the presence of a dedicated rheumatologist is crucial. Arthritis is a complex disease, and specialized care from a rheumatologist is often necessary for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing management. The distance to the nearest rheumatologist is a significant factor in the "Arthritis Score." If patients must travel long distances to see a rheumatologist, it can negatively impact their access to care and their overall quality of life. We assess the availability of rheumatology services by searching online physician directories, contacting local hospitals and healthcare organizations, and examining information about referral patterns.

Another important aspect to consider is the availability of specialized therapies. Arthritis treatment often involves physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other specialized interventions. The presence of these services within the local area, or at least within a reasonable travel distance, is essential for effective arthritis management. We assess the availability of specialized therapies by researching local healthcare providers, examining information about rehabilitation centers, and assessing the availability of assistive devices and mobility aids. The coordination of care between primary care physicians, rheumatologists, and other specialists is also a key factor.

Access to prescription medications is another critical factor. Arthritis often requires the use of medications to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and slow the progression of the disease. The ease of access to these medications, including the availability of pharmacies and the affordability of medications, significantly impacts the "Arthritis Score." We assess the availability of prescription medications by examining the number of pharmacies in the area, assessing the availability of medication assistance programs, and examining information about insurance coverage.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for the Eagles Mere area (ZIP code 17731) is likely to be impacted by the rural setting. The limited population density may result in a lower physician-to-patient ratio, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and fewer specialized services. However, the community's proximity to larger towns and cities may provide access to more specialized care. The degree to which the local healthcare providers embrace telemedicine and integrate mental health resources will also significantly influence the overall "Arthritis Score." The presence of strong primary care practices, and their ability to coordinate care with specialists, is crucial.

In conclusion, assessing the "Arthritis Score" for the Eagles Mere area (ZIP code 17731) requires a multifaceted approach. While a formal numerical score is difficult to provide due to the limitations of available data, we can assess the overall landscape by examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources and specialized therapies. The rural setting presents both challenges and opportunities, and the quality of arthritis care depends on the strength of the primary care foundation, the availability of specialized services, and the commitment of healthcare providers to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care.

Would you like to visualize the healthcare landscape of Eagles Mere and the surrounding area? Explore the healthcare resources available in ZIP code 17731 and beyond with CartoChrome maps. Discover the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and other healthcare facilities.