17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.71 percent of the residents in 17935 has some form of health insurance. 50.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.03 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 17935 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 306 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17935. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 328 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,900 health care providers accessible to residents in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Girardville, PA (ZIP Code 17935)

Girardville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing arthritis. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 17935 ZIP code, evaluating their capacity to serve the needs of arthritis patients. We will explore physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources – all crucial components of a comprehensive arthritis care plan.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Girardville and its surrounding areas is a critical factor. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can significantly impede access to timely diagnoses, treatment, and ongoing management of arthritis. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau are essential to determine the precise ratio. However, it is reasonable to assume that Girardville, a small town, likely faces challenges in this regard. The availability of specialists, such as rheumatologists, is another key consideration. Patients often require referrals to these specialists for accurate diagnosis and specialized treatment plans. The proximity of specialists in nearby towns like Pottsville or Hazleton will influence the overall accessibility of arthritis care.

Identifying standout practices involves examining several factors. Patient reviews, physician credentials (board certifications), and the range of services offered are all important indicators. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, including clear communication, shared decision-making, and readily available appointments, are highly valued. Practices that actively participate in continuing medical education (CME) related to arthritis management are also likely to provide up-to-date and effective treatment options. Furthermore, practices that integrate physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive services into their care models offer a more holistic approach to managing arthritis. The presence of dedicated nurses or medical assistants trained in arthritis care can also enhance the quality of service.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially for chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, offering patients in Girardville access to consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments without the need for travel. Practices that embrace telemedicine often use secure video conferencing platforms and patient portals for communication. This accessibility is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. Evaluating the availability of telemedicine services within the 17935 ZIP code involves assessing which practices offer these options and the types of services provided.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet crucial, aspect of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), is therefore essential. Assessing this involves determining the number of mental health providers in the area, the types of services they offer (individual therapy, group therapy, medication management), and whether they accept the same insurance plans as the PCPs. Practices that integrate mental health services into their arthritis care programs, either through in-house providers or referral networks, are better positioned to provide comprehensive support.

The quality of care is also influenced by the availability of educational resources for patients. Practices that provide educational materials about arthritis, its management, and available support groups empower patients to take an active role in their care. This may include brochures, online resources, or patient education sessions. Access to support groups, either in-person or online, can also provide valuable peer support and shared experiences, improving the overall quality of life for arthritis patients.

Furthermore, the integration of technology beyond telemedicine can improve care. Electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for seamless communication between providers and patients are essential. Patient portals that provide access to medical records, appointment scheduling, and secure messaging can also enhance patient engagement. Practices that leverage technology to improve communication and coordination of care are more likely to provide efficient and effective services.

The analysis also needs to consider the demographics of Girardville. Understanding the age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of arthritis within the community is crucial for tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of the population. For example, a higher proportion of elderly residents might indicate a greater need for geriatric care and specialized arthritis management programs.

The affordability of healthcare is another important factor. Analyzing the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of medications are all essential. Patients with arthritis often require ongoing medication and therapies, and the cost of these services can be a significant burden. Practices that offer transparent pricing and work with patients to navigate insurance and financial assistance options demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being.

Finally, the overall accessibility of healthcare services in Girardville is influenced by factors beyond the availability of PCPs. Public transportation options, the proximity of pharmacies, and the availability of home healthcare services all play a role in ensuring that patients can access the care they need.

In conclusion, evaluating the quality of arthritis care in Girardville, PA (17935) requires a comprehensive analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the characteristics of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource availability, and a variety of other factors. The goal is to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and to highlight areas where improvements can be made to better serve the needs of arthritis patients.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Girardville and surrounding areas, including physician locations, access to specialists, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive visualizations and detailed information to empower informed decision-making about healthcare access.