17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania is 93 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.51 percent of the residents in 17876 has some form of health insurance. 43.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.50 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 17876 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 382 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17876. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 422 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,793 health care providers accessible to residents in 17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17876 and Primary Care in Shamokin Dam

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly for conditions like arthritis, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into the landscape of medical professionals within ZIP code 17876, focusing on primary care availability in the neighboring community of Shamokin Dam, PA. We will evaluate key factors influencing patient care, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

ZIP code 17876 encompasses the town of Sunbury, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in this region is crucial. This ratio provides insight into the potential accessibility of care. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau are essential to estimate the population within 17876. Comparing this population figure to the number of practicing physicians, specifically primary care physicians (PCPs) and rheumatologists, allows for a preliminary understanding of whether the area is underserved or adequately staffed. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. However, this is a simplistic view. The actual availability of appointments, the acceptance of new patients, and insurance coverage further complicate the picture.

Shamokin Dam, a neighboring community, is a significant consideration due to its proximity and potential for shared healthcare resources. Evaluating the availability of primary care physicians within Shamokin Dam is critical. This involves identifying the number of PCPs practicing within the town, their specialties, and their practice affiliations. Analyzing the types of practices – whether they are solo practices, part of larger medical groups, or affiliated with hospitals – provides valuable context. Larger group practices often have more resources and the potential for a broader range of services. A robust primary care infrastructure in Shamokin Dam can alleviate pressure on the healthcare system in Sunbury and surrounding areas, especially for patients seeking initial diagnoses and ongoing management of conditions like arthritis.

Identifying standout practices is a key component of the analysis. This involves examining factors beyond simple physician numbers. Practices that demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly in the management of arthritis, deserve recognition. This could include practices that have a dedicated rheumatologist, offer comprehensive diagnostic services (e.g., X-rays, MRIs), and provide physical therapy and other supportive services. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to arthritis treatment would also be considered noteworthy. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Online platforms, such as Healthgrades and Vitals, can be reviewed to gauge patient satisfaction levels and identify practices with consistently positive feedback.

The adoption of telemedicine is increasingly important in healthcare delivery, especially for patients with chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to care, especially for those in rural areas or with mobility limitations. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of practices in 17876 and Shamokin Dam is vital. This involves determining whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patient symptoms, and the ability to share medical records electronically. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care.

The integration of mental health resources is another critical aspect of comprehensive arthritis care. Arthritis can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, practices that offer or have access to mental health services are better equipped to provide holistic care. This includes identifying whether practices have psychiatrists, psychologists, or licensed clinical social workers on staff or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Collaboration between rheumatologists, PCPs, and mental health providers ensures that patients receive comprehensive care addressing both their physical and mental health needs.

Furthermore, the types of insurance accepted by practices and the availability of financial assistance programs should be considered. The cost of healthcare, including medications and physical therapy, can be a significant barrier to access for many patients. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer financial assistance programs can help to improve access to care for those with limited financial resources.

The availability of specialized services, such as pain management clinics and infusion centers, is also important. Many arthritis patients require specialized treatments, such as injections or infusions, which may not be available in all primary care settings. The presence of these specialized services within the region can significantly improve the quality of care for arthritis patients.

In conclusion, evaluating the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 17876 and assessing primary care availability in Shamokin Dam is a complex process. It involves a multi-faceted analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialized services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available to arthritis patients and to identify areas where improvements can be made. The data must be constantly updated, as healthcare is a dynamic field.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape and identify the locations of practices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a geospatial perspective, allowing you to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in access.