17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 60.13 percent of the residents in 17747 has some form of health insurance. 26.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 42.95 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 17747 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,335 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17747. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 720 health care providers accessible to residents in 17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania.

**Arthritis Score Analysis: Physicians in ZIP Code 17747 and Primary Care in Loganton**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially for a condition like arthritis, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and the potential support system for arthritis patients in Loganton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17747), considering factors like physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This is not a definitive medical assessment but a general overview based on available data and assumptions.

The cornerstone of arthritis care, often, is a strong relationship with a PCP. They serve as the initial point of contact, managing the overall health of the patient and coordinating specialist referrals when necessary. The physician-to-patient ratio in Loganton, and the surrounding area, is a crucial factor. While specific, real-time data on this ratio can be difficult to obtain without access to proprietary databases, we can make some educated estimations. The US Department of Health & Human Services and state medical boards provide general population-to-physician ratios. If Loganton is a rural area, as is common in Pennsylvania, it is likely that the physician-to-patient ratio is higher than in more urban areas. This means fewer doctors per capita, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and limited access to care.

Further, the types of practices available in and around Loganton are important. Are there solo practices, small group practices, or larger multi-specialty clinics? Larger clinics often have the resources to offer a broader range of services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to rheumatologists. A solo practitioner might be more accessible but may have fewer resources for comprehensive care. The presence of dedicated rheumatologists within a reasonable driving distance is essential. Arthritis management often requires specialized care, and timely access to a rheumatologist can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in evaluating healthcare accessibility. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be especially beneficial for patients in rural areas. It can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to access care, especially for follow-up appointments or medication management. The availability of telemedicine options, such as virtual consultations with PCPs or rheumatologists, can significantly improve the 'Arthritis Score' for the area.

Beyond the physical aspects of arthritis care, the integration of mental health resources is critical. Chronic pain, mobility limitations, and the overall impact of arthritis can significantly affect a patient's mental well-being. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are common among arthritis patients. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, within the practice or through referrals, is a crucial component of comprehensive care. Practices that recognize the link between physical and mental health and offer integrated services will score higher in terms of patient-centered care.

Specific practices in and around 17747 that stand out, based on available public information, might be those that offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day appointments. These features can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who may have difficulty taking time off work or arranging transportation. Practices that have a patient portal for online appointment scheduling, prescription refills, and communication with their healthcare providers are also likely to score higher.

The presence of support groups or educational programs for arthritis patients can also enhance the 'Arthritis Score'. These resources provide patients with opportunities to connect with others who are facing similar challenges, share experiences, and learn about managing their condition. Support groups can be a valuable source of emotional support and practical advice.

The overall 'Arthritis Score' for Loganton, and the surrounding area, would be determined by a complex weighting of all these factors. A higher score would indicate better access to care, more comprehensive services, and a more patient-centered approach. A lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing timely and appropriate care for arthritis patients.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Arthritis Score' requires a holistic view. While the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point, it is only one piece of the puzzle. The types of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of support groups all contribute to the overall quality of care. For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Loganton and the surrounding areas, including the geographic distribution of physicians and healthcare facilities, consider exploring CartoChrome maps.