17851, Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17851, Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.23 percent of the residents in 17851 has some form of health insurance. 53.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.49 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 17851 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,241 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17851. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,696 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,349 health care providers accessible to residents in 17851, Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17851 and Primary Care Availability in Mount Carmel

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment of healthcare resources within ZIP code 17851, focusing on primary care availability in the town of Mount Carmel. The assessment considers factors pertinent to arthritis patients, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis in this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of effective arthritis management is readily accessible primary care. In Mount Carmel, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a crucial indicator. A low PCP-to-patient ratio can lead to appointment delays, reduced time spent with each patient, and ultimately, compromised care. While precise physician-to-patient ratios fluctuate, data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be used to estimate the ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer PCPs per capita, raises concerns about access.

The analysis must consider the distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code. Are they concentrated in a single clinic, or are they dispersed across various practices? This distribution impacts accessibility, particularly for patients with mobility limitations. The presence of multiple primary care practices, ideally with diverse specialties or affiliations, generally indicates a more robust healthcare ecosystem.

Beyond the raw number of PCPs, the quality of care is paramount. This involves assessing the presence of standout practices. These practices are often characterized by:

* **Experience:** A practice with seasoned physicians, possibly with subspecialty training in rheumatology or musculoskeletal care, is advantageous.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews provide valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication, empathy, and the ability to address specific needs.
* **Technology Adoption:** Practices that embrace electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals streamline communication and facilitate care coordination.

The evaluation should also consider the availability of rheumatologists. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact, rheumatologists specialize in arthritis and related conditions. The presence of a rheumatologist within a reasonable driving distance is crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The distance and ease of access to these specialists are critical factors.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial aspect of the Arthritis Score. The ability to conduct virtual consultations offers significant benefits for arthritis patients. It reduces the need for travel, particularly for those with mobility issues or chronic pain. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of symptoms and medication adjustments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, score higher in this assessment.

The impact of arthritis extends beyond physical symptoms. Chronic pain, mobility limitations, and the emotional toll of managing a chronic condition can significantly affect mental health. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the Arthritis Score. The analysis should examine the presence of:

* **Mental Health Professionals:** Psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists specializing in chronic pain management and related conditions.
* **Support Groups:** Local support groups provide invaluable peer support and shared experiences.
* **Integrated Care:** Practices that integrate mental health services into their primary care model are particularly beneficial.

The presence of these resources indicates a holistic approach to patient care.

The analysis also needs to account for the availability of ancillary services. These include:

* **Physical Therapy:** Access to physical therapists specializing in arthritis management is essential for maintaining mobility and reducing pain.
* **Occupational Therapy:** Occupational therapists can help patients adapt to daily activities and improve their quality of life.
* **Diagnostic Imaging:** The availability of X-ray, MRI, and other imaging services is crucial for diagnosis and monitoring.

The proximity and accessibility of these services are important considerations.

Furthermore, the analysis must consider the availability of resources specific to arthritis management. This includes:

* **Patient Education Materials:** Practices that provide educational materials about arthritis, treatment options, and self-management strategies score higher.
* **Disease Management Programs:** Programs that offer structured support and education for arthritis patients can improve outcomes.
* **Community Outreach:** Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs related to arthritis awareness and prevention are beneficial.

The analysis should also consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in the area. This includes the presence of hospitals, urgent care facilities, and pharmacies. The availability of these resources ensures that patients have access to comprehensive care when needed.

The Arthritis Score is not a static measure. It should be updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare landscape. Factors that can influence the score include:

* **Physician Recruitment and Retention:** The addition or loss of PCPs or specialists can significantly impact access to care.
* **Technological Advancements:** The adoption of new technologies, such as telemedicine platforms or remote monitoring devices, can improve patient care.
* **Changes in Insurance Coverage:** Changes in insurance coverage can affect patient access to care and treatment options.

The assessment should be transparent and based on publicly available data. It should also be objective and avoid any bias or favoritism. The goal is to provide an accurate and reliable assessment of the healthcare resources available to arthritis patients in ZIP code 17851 and Mount Carmel.

The final Arthritis Score will provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for arthritis patients in the area. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve access to care and enhance the quality of life for individuals managing arthritis.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare resources available to you, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the distribution of physicians, specialists, and other healthcare resources in your area. Click here to discover how CartoChrome maps can help you navigate the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions about your care.