17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.96 percent of the residents in 17965 has some form of health insurance. 42.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.86 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 17965 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 364 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17965. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 401 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,272 health care providers accessible to residents in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on evaluating the quality of arthritis care and primary care access within Port Carbon, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 17965. This assessment considers various factors, including physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape for individuals seeking arthritis treatment and general primary care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Port Carbon, specifically concerning primary care physicians (PCPs) and rheumatologists, is a critical indicator of access. Determining the exact ratio requires accessing and analyzing current, reliable data from sources such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the U.S. Census Bureau, and professional medical directories. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to timely care. Conversely, a higher ratio might suggest better access, though other factors, such as the physicians' specialization and the availability of support staff, also influence the quality of care.

Standout practices within the 17965 ZIP code would be identified by examining several criteria. First, the presence of board-certified rheumatologists and PCPs is crucial. Board certification signifies that a physician has met rigorous standards of training and expertise. Second, the availability of specialized services, such as on-site physical therapy, diagnostic imaging (e.g., X-rays, MRIs), and infusion centers, streamlines patient care and improves convenience. Third, patient reviews and ratings from reputable sources like Healthgrades or Vitals provide insights into patient satisfaction, communication, and overall experience. Practices consistently receiving high ratings and positive reviews are likely to be considered standout performers.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in assessing healthcare quality. The ability to offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring services is increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. Telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for routine follow-ups and medication management. It can also improve access to care for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and demonstrated a commitment to telehealth services are likely to be ranked higher in this analysis.

Mental health resources are an integral component of comprehensive healthcare, particularly for individuals managing chronic pain and conditions like arthritis. The analysis would consider the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices or through referrals to external providers. This includes access to psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists who specialize in pain management and coping strategies. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns, offer integrated behavioral health services, or have established referral networks demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

The assessment of arthritis care extends beyond physician availability and practice characteristics. It also considers the availability of other healthcare professionals who play a vital role in arthritis management. This includes physical therapists, occupational therapists, and certified athletic trainers. These professionals provide specialized rehabilitation services, helping patients improve mobility, reduce pain, and maintain their independence. The presence of these support services within the practices or in close proximity is a positive indicator of comprehensive care.

To assess the overall quality of arthritis care, the analysis would also consider the availability of patient education resources. This includes access to educational materials, support groups, and disease management programs. Practices that actively educate patients about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. These resources empower patients to take an active role in their care and improve their quality of life.

Primary care availability in Port Carbon is evaluated by considering the accessibility of PCPs. This includes the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code, their acceptance of new patients, and their office hours. Practices that are accepting new patients and offer convenient appointment times are more accessible to the local population. The analysis also considers the availability of after-hours care, such as urgent care clinics or on-call services, which can provide timely care for acute illnesses and injuries.

The analysis also takes into account the insurance plans accepted by the practices. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, are more accessible to a diverse population. Limited insurance coverage can create barriers to care for individuals with arthritis and other chronic conditions. The analysis would identify practices that are committed to providing care to all members of the community.

The integration of technology is another important factor in assessing the quality of care. This includes the use of electronic health records (EHRs), patient portals, and online appointment scheduling. EHRs enable physicians to maintain comprehensive patient records, share information with other healthcare providers, and improve care coordination. Patient portals allow patients to access their medical records, communicate with their physicians, and manage their appointments online. Practices that have embraced these technologies are likely to provide more efficient and patient-centered care.

The analysis would also consider the geographic distribution of healthcare services within the 17965 ZIP code. This includes the location of physician offices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. Practices located in areas with good public transportation access and ample parking are more convenient for patients. The analysis would also identify areas where healthcare services are limited, highlighting potential disparities in access to care.

The overall Arthritis Score for doctors in ZIP code 17965 and primary care availability in Port Carbon is a composite score based on the factors discussed above. It is a dynamic evaluation that considers the ever-changing healthcare landscape. The score is intended to provide a general assessment of the quality of care and access to healthcare services. It is not a substitute for individual medical advice.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Port Carbon, including physician locations, service availability, and demographic data, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows for a deeper understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem.