17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17933 has some form of health insurance. 63.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.37 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 17933 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17933. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 98 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,708 health care providers accessible to residents in 17933, Friedensburg, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Friedensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17933)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Friedensburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17933), through an "Arthritis Score" lens requires a multifaceted approach. We'll examine primary care access, specialist availability, and the integration of resources crucial for managing arthritis, like mental health support and telemedicine. The goal is to assess the overall suitability of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals living with arthritis.

The foundation of arthritis care rests on accessible primary care. In Friedensburg, assessing primary care availability involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric, while not a perfect indicator, provides a baseline understanding of potential wait times and the overall burden on local physicians. A higher ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer appointment delays and reduced time spent with each patient. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater availability and potentially more personalized care. Data from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) and local healthcare provider directories would be crucial to ascertain this ratio accurately for ZIP Code 17933. This data needs to be cross-referenced with patient demographics to ascertain if the available primary care physicians are accepting new patients.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The "Arthritis Score" must consider the experience and expertise of local physicians. Are they well-versed in the early diagnosis and management of arthritis? Do they possess the resources to refer patients to rheumatologists and other specialists promptly? Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences and the perceived quality of care provided by primary care physicians in Friedensburg. A high volume of positive reviews, particularly those mentioning attentive care and effective treatment plans, would contribute positively to the score.

Specialist access is another critical component. Rheumatologists, specifically trained in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis, are essential. The proximity and availability of rheumatologists within a reasonable travel distance significantly impact the "Arthritis Score." This assessment requires identifying the number of rheumatologists serving the Friedensburg area and evaluating their patient load, appointment availability, and insurance acceptance. A readily available rheumatologist, with a reasonable wait time for appointments, would significantly enhance the score. Furthermore, the presence of other specialists, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pain management specialists, who play a crucial role in arthritis management, also needs to be evaluated.

The adoption of telemedicine is an increasingly important factor. Telemedicine offers the potential for remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The "Arthritis Score" should assess the extent to which primary care physicians and specialists in Friedensburg utilize telemedicine platforms. Does the local healthcare system offer virtual appointments? Are patients able to access their medical records and communicate with their providers online? The availability and ease of use of telemedicine services would positively impact the score.

Mental health support is often overlooked in arthritis care, but it is a critical element. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The "Arthritis Score" must assess the availability of mental health resources in Friedensburg. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, readily accessible to patients? Does the local healthcare system integrate mental health services into its arthritis care programs? The presence of mental health support services, and their seamless integration into the overall care plan, is essential for a high score.

Several practices in Friedensburg may stand out in their approach to arthritis care. Identifying these "standout practices" requires a deeper dive into their services. Do they offer comprehensive arthritis management programs, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management? Do they participate in clinical trials or research related to arthritis? Are they actively involved in patient education and support groups? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care would contribute positively to the "Arthritis Score."

The "Arthritis Score" should also consider the availability of patient education and support resources. Are there local arthritis support groups? Does the local healthcare system provide educational materials and resources to help patients manage their condition? The availability of these resources empowers patients to take an active role in their care and improve their quality of life.

The "Arthritis Score" is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to ensure its accuracy and relevance. This ongoing analysis should consider changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the integration of new resources.

In conclusion, assessing the healthcare landscape of Friedensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17933) for arthritis care requires a holistic approach. The "Arthritis Score" should consider physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. The final score will reflect the overall suitability of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals living with arthritis.

For a detailed visual representation of the healthcare resources in Friedensburg, including physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. Their interactive maps can provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape, helping you make informed decisions about your care.