17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.89 percent of the residents in 17737 has some form of health insurance. 40.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.90 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 17737 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,583 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17737. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,293 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,653 health care providers accessible to residents in 17737, Hughesville, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Hughesville, PA (ZIP Code 17737)

This analysis provides an “Arthritis Score” assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within and serving the Hughesville, PA (ZIP Code 17737) area, focusing on factors relevant to arthritis patients. The goal is to evaluate the accessibility, quality, and supportive resources available to individuals managing this condition. This score is not a formal medical rating, but rather a composite of observations based on publicly available data and general healthcare trends.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Accessibility:**

Hughesville, a relatively rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas: a potentially lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban centers. This means that the number of PCPs available per capita might be smaller, potentially increasing wait times for appointments and limiting patient choice. The availability of specialists, particularly rheumatologists, is also a crucial factor. Since rheumatology is a specialized field, patients in Hughesville may need to travel to larger towns or cities like Williamsport or Bloomsburg to access these crucial services. This travel time adds a significant burden for individuals with arthritis, who often experience pain and mobility limitations.

The analysis considers factors like the age of the population in Hughesville. An older population often has a higher prevalence of arthritis, further increasing the demand for primary care services. The accessibility of transportation, including public transit and ride-sharing options, is also essential. Limited transportation options can create significant barriers for patients needing regular appointments, physical therapy, or access to medications.

**Standout Practices and Their Attributes:**

Identifying “standout practices” involves looking for specific characteristics. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, demonstrate a commitment to chronic disease management, and have a strong focus on patient education are likely to score higher. This includes practices that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day availability for urgent needs.

The presence of on-site physical therapy or access to a nearby physical therapy clinic is highly beneficial. Physical therapy is a cornerstone of arthritis management, and convenient access can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices with integrated care models, where PCPs collaborate with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other specialists, often provide more comprehensive and coordinated care.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs facilitate better communication between providers, allow for efficient tracking of patient progress, and can improve medication management. Practices that utilize patient portals, allowing patients to access their medical records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their providers online, demonstrate a commitment to patient empowerment and convenience.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine adoption is a critical aspect of the Arthritis Score. The ability to conduct virtual appointments, particularly for follow-up visits, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas.

The analysis assesses the availability of telemedicine services offered by PCPs in the area. This includes evaluating the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, phone appointments, remote monitoring) and the ease of access to these services. Practices that have invested in user-friendly telemedicine platforms and provide training and support for patients are likely to score higher.

Telemedicine can also play a role in connecting patients with specialists who may not be readily available locally. Through virtual consultations, patients can access expert advice and guidance without having to travel long distances.

**Mental Health Resources and Support:**

The Arthritis Score also considers the availability of mental health resources. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental well-being. The pain, disability, and lifestyle changes associated with arthritis can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.

The analysis evaluates the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices themselves or through referrals to external providers. Practices that screen for mental health issues, provide counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are highly valued.

The availability of support groups, both in-person and online, is another important factor. Support groups provide a valuable opportunity for patients to connect with others who understand their experiences, share coping strategies, and receive emotional support.

**Medication Management and Pharmacy Access:**

Effective medication management is crucial for arthritis patients. The analysis considers the PCP's approach to medication prescribing, monitoring, and patient education. Practices that provide clear and concise information about medications, potential side effects, and interactions are more likely to score higher.

The proximity and accessibility of pharmacies are also important. Patients need convenient access to their medications, and the analysis considers the availability of local pharmacies and the ease of prescription refills. Practices that offer electronic prescribing and have established relationships with local pharmacies can improve medication adherence and patient outcomes.

**Overall Assessment and Conclusion:**

The Arthritis Score for primary care availability in Hughesville, PA (17737) is a complex evaluation. The score is influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialist referrals, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall commitment to patient-centered care. The ability of practices to address the unique needs of arthritis patients, including pain management, mobility support, and emotional well-being, is critical.

While a definitive score cannot be provided without detailed data, the analysis highlights the importance of factors that contribute to a positive patient experience. Patients in Hughesville should actively seek information about the services offered by local PCPs, including their approach to arthritis management, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health support.

**Call to Action:**

For a comprehensive visualization of healthcare resources in Hughesville and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, pharmacies, and other relevant services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape and help you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.