17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.60 percent of the residents in 17880 has some form of health insurance. 33.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.98 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 17880 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 35 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17880. 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 2,001 health care providers accessible to residents in 17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17880 and Primary Care Availability in Swengel

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for healthcare resources within ZIP code 17880, encompassing the town of Swengel and surrounding areas. The score considers factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis, including access to primary care, specialist availability, telemedicine options, and the integration of mental health services. This analysis does not provide medical advice.

The foundation of good arthritis management lies in accessible primary care. Swengel, a small community, faces challenges in this area. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical determinant of the Arthritis Score. A low physician-to-patient ratio in Swengel, coupled with limited transportation options for some residents, could significantly impact timely access to care, leading to delayed diagnoses, treatment plans, and overall disease management. This negatively impacts the Arthritis Score.

The Arthritis Score is also influenced by the availability of specialists, particularly rheumatologists. 17880, being a rural area, likely has limited access to these specialized physicians. Patients may need to travel significant distances to see a rheumatologist, impacting their ability to receive specialized care, including diagnosis, medication management, and disease-modifying therapies. This travel burden further diminishes the Arthritis Score. The lack of specialist availability underscores the importance of strong primary care to manage arthritis symptoms and provide initial treatment recommendations.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in the Arthritis Score. The ability to access virtual consultations with PCPs and specialists can significantly improve healthcare access, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication adjustments, and even initial consultations, will receive a higher score. The absence of telemedicine options, conversely, will negatively affect the score, particularly in a rural setting like Swengel.

Mental health resources are integral to the Arthritis Score. Chronic pain, a hallmark of arthritis, frequently co-occurs with mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. The availability of these resources, or the lack thereof, is a significant factor in the overall Arthritis Score. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and provide support services will receive a higher score.

Assessing specific practices within 17880 requires a granular analysis of individual providers. This analysis attempts to identify standout practices based on publicly available information. Practices that offer extended hours, accept a wide range of insurance plans, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education and support groups would likely receive higher marks. Those who have invested in patient portals and online appointment scheduling systems also contribute positively to the score.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians serving a large population, will negatively affect the Arthritis Score. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a less comprehensive approach to care. Conversely, a lower ratio, indicating greater access to physicians, will improve the score. Data on physician-to-patient ratios is publicly available, but the specifics can be complex to decipher.

Standout practices, if any, in the area would be those that have actively implemented these strategies. This includes practices that offer a comprehensive approach to arthritis management, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and patient education. Such practices would be highly valued in the community and would likely have a positive impact on the Arthritis Score.

The integration of mental health services is another critical aspect. Practices that recognize the link between chronic pain and mental health and provide access to mental health professionals will receive a higher score. This can include on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, and support groups for patients. The presence or absence of these services is a significant factor in the overall score.

The Arthritis Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that can change based on various factors. The availability of new treatments, the adoption of telemedicine, and the expansion of mental health services can all impact the score. Regular updates and ongoing assessments are essential to ensure that patients have access to the best possible care.

The location of primary care availability in Swengel, specifically, is a significant factor. The proximity of these providers to the residents of Swengel is critical. If primary care is located far from the community, it negatively impacts the Arthritis Score. Access to transportation, the ability to schedule appointments, and the availability of after-hours care are all critical factors.

In conclusion, the Arthritis Score for 17880, including Swengel, is likely impacted by the rural nature of the area. Limited specialist availability, potential transportation challenges, and the need for increased telemedicine adoption are factors to consider. The integration of mental health services and the commitment of primary care practices to patient education and support will be critical in improving the score.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare resources in 17880 and to visualize the availability of physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers, we recommend using CartoChrome maps. Explore the spatial relationships between healthcare providers, patient populations, and other relevant data points. CartoChrome provides a powerful tool for understanding healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement.