17836, Leck Kill, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17836, Leck Kill, Pennsylvania is 91 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.92 percent of the residents in 17836 has some form of health insurance. 30.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.92 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 17836 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 87 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17836. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 20 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,118 health care providers accessible to residents in 17836, Leck Kill, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17836 and Primary Care in Leck Kill

Analyzing the availability and quality of arthritis care within ZIP code 17836, which encompasses significant portions of Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, and specifically assessing primary care access in the nearby community of Leck Kill, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis aims to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in managing a chronic condition like arthritis. The score, though not a definitive numerical value, will reflect the overall landscape of care, highlighting strengths and weaknesses.

The foundation of any arthritis care assessment begins with physician density. ZIP code 17836, being a predominantly rural area, likely faces challenges common to such regions: lower physician-to-patient ratios compared to urban centers. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially, a greater reliance on primary care physicians for initial diagnosis and management. Therefore, the Arthritis Score for this area is immediately impacted negatively by the anticipated lower density of rheumatologists and other specialists. The availability of primary care physicians, while crucial, cannot fully compensate for the need for specialized rheumatological expertise.

The primary care landscape in Leck Kill, a small community within the broader area, presents its own set of challenges. The limited population base may translate to a smaller number of primary care practices, potentially leading to even greater competition for appointments. The geographic isolation of Leck Kill further exacerbates this, as residents may need to travel considerable distances to access medical care, particularly specialized services. The Arthritis Score for Leck Kill will therefore reflect the constraints of limited access to both primary and specialized care.

Standout practices within the region, if any, would be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis management. This includes not only accurate diagnosis and treatment but also patient education, support services, and a multidisciplinary approach. Practices that offer physical therapy, occupational therapy, and access to specialized pain management services would receive a higher score. The presence of registered dietitians specializing in inflammatory conditions would also be a significant positive factor, as dietary modifications can play a critical role in managing arthritis symptoms. The analysis will consider the availability of these ancillary services.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly crucial, especially in rural areas. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care for patients in geographically isolated locations. Telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management. The Arthritis Score will be positively influenced by the degree of telemedicine integration within local practices. The ease of access to virtual consultations is a key factor in determining the overall score.

The often-overlooked aspect of arthritis management is the impact on mental health. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can lead to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that recognize this and offer or facilitate access to mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, will receive a higher score. The integration of mental health services is a critical component of comprehensive arthritis care, and its absence will negatively impact the overall assessment. The availability of these services is paramount.

Furthermore, the Arthritis Score will assess the use of patient education materials. Practices that proactively provide patients with information about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies are better equipped to empower patients to take an active role in their care. This includes providing access to reliable online resources, educational pamphlets, and support group information. The presence of these resources is a positive factor.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for doctors in ZIP code 17836 and primary care availability in Leck Kill is likely to be moderate, potentially hampered by the rural nature of the area. The limited physician-to-patient ratios, the challenges of geographic isolation, and the need for improved access to specialized care and mental health resources will likely contribute to a lower score. However, practices that prioritize comprehensive care, embrace telemedicine, and integrate mental health services can significantly improve the score and the quality of life for arthritis patients in the region. The analysis will consider all of these factors.

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