17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.98 percent of the residents in 17740 has some form of health insurance. 35.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.54 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 17740 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,994 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17740. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,230 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,814 health care providers accessible to residents in 17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Jersey Shore, PA (ZIP Code 17740)

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) and their associated resources within Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17740). The score considers factors relevant to arthritis patients, including physician availability, practice features, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health support. It aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis. The analysis is based on publicly available data, online reviews, and general industry trends.

The core of this analysis revolves around the availability of primary care. Jersey Shore, a relatively small town, may face challenges in physician-to-patient ratios. A lower ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to care. However, the actual ratio is difficult to determine precisely without specific, up-to-the-minute data. It is crucial to understand that the availability of PCPs is a foundational element for arthritis management. PCPs often act as the initial point of contact, providing diagnoses, referrals to specialists (like rheumatologists), and ongoing care coordination.

Assessing the “Arthritis Score” requires examining several key areas. First, the number of PCPs actively practicing in the ZIP code is a fundamental metric. Second, the acceptance of new patients is critical. Practices that are consistently open to new patients are more accessible. Third, the types of services offered by each practice matter. Does the practice have on-site X-ray facilities? Does it offer physical therapy? These are important considerations for arthritis patients. Fourth, the adoption of telemedicine is a significant factor, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas.

Standout practices within Jersey Shore would likely be those demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, including arthritis patients. This would involve offering comprehensive services, integrating telemedicine options, and actively participating in patient education. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into online reviews, practice websites, and potentially direct inquiries to determine their specific approaches to arthritis management.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. For arthritis patients, telemedicine can provide convenient access to care, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and addressing minor concerns. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, would score higher. This is especially true for those who may struggle to travel to in-person appointments.

Mental health resources are another crucial component of the "Arthritis Score." Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental well-being. The availability of mental health services, either within the primary care practice or through readily accessible referrals, is a critical factor. Practices that recognize the link between physical and mental health and provide integrated care or strong referral networks would be viewed favorably.

Specifics are difficult to ascertain without a dedicated, on-the-ground investigation. General trends suggest that practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems may have more resources, including access to specialists, telemedicine platforms, and mental health services. Independent practices may offer a more personalized approach, but their resources might be more limited.

The "Arthritis Score" also considers the practice’s commitment to patient education. Does the practice provide educational materials about arthritis? Does it offer support groups or connect patients with relevant resources? Practices that prioritize patient education empower individuals to manage their condition effectively.

Another factor in the score is the practice's use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate communication between healthcare providers, improve care coordination, and allow patients to access their medical information. Practices with robust EHR systems often provide a better patient experience.

The geographic location of practices within the ZIP code is another element to consider. Are practices conveniently located for residents of Jersey Shore? Are there transportation options for those who may not drive? Accessibility is a key factor in determining the quality of care.

The "Arthritis Score" is not just a numerical rating; it is a holistic assessment of the healthcare ecosystem. It considers the availability of services, the quality of care, and the patient experience. It highlights the importance of access to care, the adoption of technology, and the integration of mental health resources.

In conclusion, assessing the "Arthritis Score" for Jersey Shore (17740) requires a comprehensive evaluation of local primary care practices. It goes beyond simple physician-to-patient ratios, considering factors like telemedicine adoption, mental health support, and patient education. This analysis emphasizes the need for a multi-faceted approach to healthcare, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like arthritis.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jersey Shore, including the locations of primary care practices and other relevant resources, explore the power of interactive mapping. Visit CartoChrome maps to discover the spatial distribution of healthcare providers and visualize the accessibility of care in your community.