17867, Rebuck, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17867, Rebuck, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 75.00 percent of the residents in 17867 has some form of health insurance. 21.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.71 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 17867 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 54 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17867. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 30 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,894 health care providers accessible to residents in 17867, Rebuck, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below focuses on primary care physician availability and related resources within ZIP Code 17867 and the specific community of Rebuck, Pennsylvania. This area is considered rural, and access to healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like arthritis, presents unique challenges. The goal is to provide an "Arthritis Score" analysis, though the specific numerical scoring is not feasible without access to real-time data. Instead, a qualitative assessment is offered.

Physician-to-patient ratios in rural areas are typically lower than in urban centers. This means fewer doctors are available to serve a larger population. In ZIP Code 17867, the density of primary care physicians is likely a significant factor impacting the “Arthritis Score.” A lower ratio translates to potentially longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and increased difficulty in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship, which is crucial for managing a chronic condition.

The availability of specialists, such as rheumatologists, is another critical consideration. Rural areas often have limited access to specialized medical care. Patients with arthritis frequently require the expertise of a rheumatologist for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The need for travel to see a specialist adds to the burden on patients, potentially impacting their adherence to treatment plans and overall quality of life. This geographic barrier significantly lowers the “Arthritis Score.”

Standout practices in the area, if any, could significantly improve the “Arthritis Score.” These practices might be characterized by several factors. First, they might prioritize patient education and empowerment. This could involve providing comprehensive information about arthritis, treatment options, and self-management strategies. Second, they could embrace a patient-centered approach, actively involving patients in their care decisions. Third, they might offer extended hours or weekend appointments to improve accessibility. Finally, practices that integrate physical therapy and other supportive services would also be highly beneficial. Identifying these standout practices is crucial for improving the “Arthritis Score.”

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in bridging the healthcare gap in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel. For arthritis patients, telemedicine can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms. The availability and accessibility of telemedicine services directly affect the “Arthritis Score.” Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, would likely score higher.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for managing chronic conditions. Arthritis can be associated with depression, anxiety, and chronic pain, all of which can impact a patient's mental well-being. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is a critical component of comprehensive arthritis care. Practices that integrate mental health services or have referral pathways to mental health providers would positively influence the “Arthritis Score.”

The specific community of Rebuck, within ZIP Code 17867, requires a more granular analysis. The “Arthritis Score” could vary depending on the proximity to primary care physicians, the availability of transportation, and the demographics of the population. For example, if a significant portion of the Rebuck population is elderly, the need for arthritis care would be even greater. Assessing the specific needs of the Rebuck community is essential for accurately evaluating the “Arthritis Score.”

Consider the role of community resources. Local pharmacies that offer medication adherence programs and educational materials can support arthritis patients. Senior centers and community organizations that provide exercise classes and social support can also contribute to improved outcomes. The presence and accessibility of these community resources should be factored into the “Arthritis Score.”

The quality of care provided by primary care physicians is paramount. The “Arthritis Score” should reflect the physicians' knowledge of arthritis, their willingness to collaborate with specialists, and their ability to effectively manage patients' symptoms. This includes their understanding of current treatment guidelines, their ability to prescribe appropriate medications, and their willingness to refer patients to specialists when necessary. Physician training and experience directly affect the “Arthritis Score.”

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can also improve the quality of care. EHRs allow physicians to access patients' medical history, track their progress, and communicate with other healthcare providers more efficiently. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are better equipped to provide coordinated and comprehensive care, which positively impacts the “Arthritis Score.”

The overall “Arthritis Score” for doctors in ZIP Code 17867 and primary care availability in Rebuck is likely negatively affected by the rural setting. The limited physician-to-patient ratio, the scarcity of specialists, and the potential lack of readily available mental health resources are significant challenges. However, practices that embrace telemedicine, prioritize patient education, and integrate supportive services can improve the “Arthritis Score.” The specific needs of the Rebuck community must be considered for a more accurate assessment.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare resources in this area, including physician locations, specialist availability, and potential gaps in care, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data and identify areas where resources are lacking.