17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.88 percent of the residents in 17936 has some form of health insurance. 32.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.10 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 17936 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 369 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17936. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 189 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,774 health care providers accessible to residents in 17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Gordon, PA (ZIP Code 17936)

This analysis delves into the landscape of arthritis care and primary care access within Gordon, Pennsylvania, specifically focusing on ZIP code 17936. We will assess the availability of physicians, examine the quality of care, and explore the integration of modern healthcare practices, culminating in a comprehensive "Arthritis Score" evaluation. This score will reflect the overall accessibility and quality of care for individuals managing arthritis in this community.

The foundation of effective arthritis management lies in readily accessible primary care. Gordon, a small community, presents unique challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Publicly available data, such as that from the US Department of Health & Human Services, should be consulted to ascertain the precise physician-to-patient ratio within 17936. This data point directly impacts the "Accessibility" component of our Arthritis Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the type of primary care offered is crucial. Do practices in Gordon provide comprehensive services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and referrals to specialists? The presence of board-certified internal medicine or family medicine physicians is a positive indicator. Furthermore, the availability of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray facilities, streamlines the diagnostic process and contributes to a higher score.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing the practice's reputation within the community, and evaluating the qualifications of the physicians. Practices with a demonstrable commitment to patient education, offering resources on arthritis management, and actively participating in community health initiatives would receive higher marks. The "Quality of Care" component of our score weighs these factors heavily.

Modern healthcare delivery necessitates the adoption of telemedicine. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare remotely via technology, offers significant benefits for arthritis patients. It reduces the need for travel, especially for those with mobility limitations, and allows for more frequent follow-up appointments. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring tools, and online patient portals directly impacts the "Innovation" component of our Arthritis Score. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care.

The holistic nature of arthritis management demands consideration of mental health. Chronic pain, a hallmark of arthritis, can significantly impact mental well-being. The availability of mental health resources, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals, is a critical factor. Practices that recognize the link between physical and mental health and offer integrated care will receive a higher score in the "Comprehensive Care" component. This includes the presence of on-site therapists or strong partnerships with local mental health providers.

The Arthritis Score itself is a composite measure, reflecting the weighted average of these key components: Accessibility (physician-to-patient ratio, appointment wait times), Quality of Care (physician qualifications, patient reviews, diagnostic capabilities), Innovation (telemedicine adoption, online patient portals), and Comprehensive Care (mental health resources, patient education). Each component is assigned a weight based on its perceived importance in delivering effective arthritis care.

Calculating the score requires gathering data from various sources, including public health databases, physician directories, practice websites, and patient reviews. This data is then analyzed to assign a numerical value to each component. The final Arthritis Score, a single number, provides a concise assessment of the overall quality and accessibility of arthritis care in Gordon, PA.

The analysis of primary care availability in Gordon is intrinsically linked to the arthritis score. Primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing arthritis symptoms. Their ability to diagnose, manage, and refer patients to specialists directly influences the patient's journey. A robust primary care system, with sufficient physician availability and a commitment to comprehensive care, is essential for a high Arthritis Score.

To illustrate, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, readily available appointments, and a focus on patient education would score well in the "Accessibility" and "Quality of Care" components. Conversely, a practice with limited appointment availability and no telemedicine options would receive lower scores in these areas. The final score will reflect these strengths and weaknesses, providing a clear picture of the healthcare landscape in 17936.

The challenges of providing healthcare in a rural community like Gordon are significant. Limited resources, geographic isolation, and the potential for physician shortages can all impact the availability and quality of care. Understanding these challenges is crucial for interpreting the Arthritis Score and identifying areas for improvement.

The "Arthritis Score" is not just a number; it's a reflection of the community's commitment to the well-being of its residents. It highlights areas where healthcare providers are excelling and identifies opportunities for improvement. This includes the adoption of new technologies, the expansion of mental health services, and a focus on patient-centered care.

This analysis serves as a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Gordon, PA. Further investigation, including direct contact with local healthcare providers and community stakeholders, is recommended for a more in-depth understanding. The availability of specialists, such as rheumatologists, is also a critical factor, although the scope of this analysis focuses primarily on primary care.

The final Arthritis Score, derived from this analysis, provides a valuable tool for individuals seeking arthritis care in Gordon. It empowers them to make informed decisions about their healthcare and encourages healthcare providers to strive for excellence.

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