17750, Mackeyville, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17750, Mackeyville, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 7.48 percent of the residents in 17750 has some form of health insurance. 3.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 3.74 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 17750 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 66 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17750. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 660 health care providers accessible to residents in 17750, Mackeyville, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Mackeyville, PA (ZIP Code 17750)

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of arthritis care within the 17750 ZIP code, focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs) in Mackeyville, PA. We will assess factors crucial to arthritis patients, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Arthritis Score" assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of effective arthritis management is often the primary care physician. They serve as the initial point of contact, providing diagnoses, treatment plans, and referrals to specialists. In Mackeyville, the physician-to-patient ratio within the primary care sector significantly impacts access to care. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions for arthritis sufferers. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater availability and easier access to timely care. Assessing this ratio is a critical first step in determining the overall "Arthritis Score." Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing specific demographic and healthcare provider data, which is often proprietary. However, publicly available resources such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau can provide population estimates and the number of licensed physicians in the area, allowing for a rough approximation.

Identifying standout practices within the 17750 ZIP code involves evaluating several factors. This includes the experience and expertise of the physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic services (such as X-rays or blood testing), and the practice's commitment to patient education. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) related to rheumatology and arthritis management demonstrate a commitment to staying current with the latest treatment advancements. Patient reviews and testimonials can also offer valuable insights into the quality of care provided, patient satisfaction, and the overall patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer clear explanations of diagnoses and treatment options, and foster a supportive environment are more likely to receive positive feedback and contribute to a higher "Arthritis Score."

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine offers convenient access to healthcare, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly for those with mobility issues or who live in rural areas. Within the 17750 ZIP code, the availability of telemedicine services among PCPs significantly impacts the "Arthritis Score." Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and improved accessibility. Examining the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, secure messaging, remote monitoring of vital signs) provides a more nuanced understanding of the practice's telemedicine capabilities. The ease of use of these technologies, the availability of technical support, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan are also critical considerations.

The link between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain, limited mobility, and the emotional toll of living with a chronic illness can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive arthritis care. In Mackeyville, the availability of mental health services, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, directly impacts the "Arthritis Score." Practices that integrate mental health screening into their routine care, offer referrals to mental health professionals, or have mental health professionals on staff demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. The accessibility of these resources, including insurance coverage and wait times, is also a key factor. Furthermore, practices that collaborate with local mental health organizations and offer educational resources on managing the emotional impact of arthritis contribute to a higher score.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for the 17750 ZIP code is a composite measure reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape. A higher score indicates better access to care, a higher quality of care, and a greater emphasis on patient well-being. A lower score suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive arthritis care. This analysis uses the factors discussed above to assess the area. The score would be based on the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with experienced physicians and patient-focused services, the adoption of telemedicine to improve access, and the availability of mental health resources. A detailed, granular assessment of these factors is required to arrive at a precise score.

In conclusion, assessing the availability and quality of arthritis care in Mackeyville, PA (17750) requires a multifaceted approach. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources are all critical factors. A comprehensive evaluation of these elements allows for a more accurate "Arthritis Score" assessment, providing valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers. The goal is to identify areas of strength and areas that require improvement, ultimately leading to better care for individuals living with arthritis.

Would you like to visualize the healthcare landscape of Mackeyville and the surrounding areas? Explore the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant data with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and identify potential opportunities for improvement.