17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.71 percent of the residents in 17934 has some form of health insurance. 63.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.52 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 17934 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 47 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17934. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 46 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,909 health care providers accessible to residents in 17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17934 and Primary Care Availability in Gilberton

Analyzing the availability of quality healthcare, particularly for individuals managing arthritis, within ZIP code 17934 (which encompasses Gilberton, PA) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the current landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs), assess the potential for specialized rheumatology care, and explore the integration of telehealth and mental health resources, all crucial components of effective arthritis management. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced "Arthritis Score" reflecting the accessibility and quality of care available to residents.

The foundation of arthritis care often rests with the PCP. In Gilberton, understanding the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained relationships between patients and their doctors. Data from publicly available sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, would be essential to calculate this ratio. Furthermore, the age and experience of the PCPs in the area should be considered. Seasoned physicians with extensive experience in managing chronic conditions like arthritis may be better equipped to diagnose, treat, and refer patients appropriately.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is crucial. Are the PCPs in Gilberton actively involved in preventative care, such as screening for arthritis risk factors and educating patients about lifestyle modifications? Do they have established referral pathways to rheumatologists or other specialists? The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers is another critical factor. EHRs facilitate efficient communication, medication management, and the sharing of patient information, all vital for coordinated arthritis care.

While PCPs form the cornerstone, access to specialized rheumatology care is equally important. Currently, the availability of board-certified rheumatologists within ZIP code 17934 is likely limited. Residents may need to travel to larger cities like Pottsville or Hazleton for specialized consultations and treatments. This travel distance impacts the "Arthritis Score" negatively, as it adds to the burden of managing a chronic condition. The presence of satellite clinics or partnerships between local PCPs and rheumatology practices in neighboring areas would significantly improve the score.

The adoption of telemedicine is a key factor in modern healthcare, especially for managing chronic conditions. Telehealth offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The "Arthritis Score" would benefit from the presence of PCPs or specialists offering telehealth consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and virtual physical therapy sessions. This technology can enhance patient convenience and improve adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health is often overlooked in the context of arthritis management, but it plays a crucial role. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can lead to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, within the community is therefore a critical component of the "Arthritis Score." A high score would reflect the presence of accessible mental health services, either within the primary care practices or through collaborations with local mental health providers.

Identifying standout practices in the area is essential. These practices may demonstrate superior patient care, innovative approaches to arthritis management, or a commitment to patient education. Factors to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the implementation of evidence-based treatment guidelines, and the integration of patient-centered care principles. These practices could serve as models for other providers in the area.

Analyzing the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services is also crucial. These therapies are often essential for managing pain, improving mobility, and maintaining function in individuals with arthritis. The "Arthritis Score" would be positively impacted by the presence of readily accessible physical and occupational therapy services within the community.

Furthermore, the availability of resources for patient education and support should be considered. This includes access to educational materials, support groups, and online resources that can empower patients to actively participate in their own care. The presence of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with arthritis.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for doctors in ZIP code 17934 and primary care availability in Gilberton would be a composite measure, considering all the factors discussed above. A high score would indicate a community with readily accessible and high-quality primary care, access to specialized rheumatology services, the adoption of telehealth, the availability of mental health resources, and a focus on patient education and support. A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing comprehensive arthritis care.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in this area, it's essential to leverage data visualization tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful way to visualize the distribution of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and other relevant data points. This visual representation can help identify areas of strength and weakness, allowing for targeted interventions to improve the "Arthritis Score" and the overall quality of life for residents of Gilberton and the surrounding areas.

**Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape in Gilberton and surrounding areas? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare accessibility and identify opportunities for improvement. Contact us today to learn more.**