17981, Tremont, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 17981, Tremont, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.47 percent of the residents in 17981 has some form of health insurance. 36.34 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.82 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 17981 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 578 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17981. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 348 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,136 health care providers accessible to residents in 17981, Tremont, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Tremont, PA (ZIP Code 17981)

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 17981, focusing on their accessibility, resources, and overall suitability for patients managing arthritis. The evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health services, all crucial factors in effective arthritis care. The primary geographic focus is Tremont, PA, within the specified ZIP code.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. In Tremont, and the surrounding areas of 17981, the availability of PCPs is a concern. Rural areas often face shortages, and this can significantly impact the ability of arthritis sufferers to receive timely diagnoses, treatment, and ongoing management. The ratio is likely higher than the national average, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. This scarcity can also limit the availability of specialists, such as rheumatologists, who are essential for complex arthritis cases.

Standout practices, if any, would be those demonstrating a patient-centered approach. This includes practices that prioritize communication, actively involve patients in treatment decisions, and offer comprehensive care. Practices excelling in arthritis management often have dedicated staff trained in rheumatology, offer on-site physical therapy, and provide educational resources for patients. The presence of these features would significantly elevate a practice’s "Arthritis Score." The availability of these resources in Tremont is likely limited, making the few practices that offer them particularly valuable.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to consult with a physician remotely can be a significant advantage for arthritis patients, especially those with mobility limitations or who live in remote areas. Telemedicine can facilitate follow-up appointments, medication management, and access to specialists. The "Arthritis Score" would be higher for practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, offering virtual consultations, and providing remote monitoring capabilities. The current level of telemedicine adoption in Tremont is unknown, but given the rural setting, it is likely to be lower than in more urban areas. This represents a potential area for improvement.

The integration of mental health resources is crucial for arthritis patients. Chronic pain and disability can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological challenges. Practices that recognize this and offer integrated mental health services, such as on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, would receive a higher "Arthritis Score." This integration is often lacking in rural areas, and its presence would be a significant advantage for any practice in Tremont.

The "Arthritis Score" for a given practice would also consider its commitment to patient education. Providing patients with information about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies is essential for empowering them to take an active role in their care. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or access to online resources would score higher. The availability of these resources in Tremont would be a key factor in assessing the overall quality of arthritis care.

The overall "Arthritis Score" for Tremont, PA, and the surrounding areas of ZIP code 17981 is likely to be moderate. The challenges of rural healthcare, including physician shortages and limited access to specialists and resources, would likely lower the score. However, the presence of any practices demonstrating a patient-centered approach, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health services would significantly improve the score. The focus on patient education and empowerment would also be a key factor in determining the overall quality of care.

Analyzing specific practices within the area would require a detailed investigation. This would involve gathering information on physician qualifications, practice resources, telemedicine capabilities, and integration of mental health services. Patient reviews and feedback would also be valuable in assessing the quality of care. The lack of readily available information, such as the number of rheumatologists, would impact the overall score.

The assessment of primary care availability in Tremont is intertwined with the "Arthritis Score." The availability of PCPs is a fundamental factor in accessing care for arthritis. The more PCPs available, the easier it is for patients to find a physician and receive timely treatment. The lack of specialists, such as rheumatologists, would also negatively impact the score. The presence of a strong network of healthcare providers would be a significant advantage.

Ultimately, the "Arthritis Score" for Tremont, PA, reflects the complex interplay of factors affecting access to and quality of arthritis care. While the rural setting presents challenges, the presence of dedicated practices and a commitment to patient-centered care can significantly improve the overall score. The availability of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services are critical factors for improving patient outcomes. The need for patient education and empowerment is also essential.

To explore the healthcare landscape of Tremont, PA, and gain a visual understanding of physician locations, resources, and access to care, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and identifying areas of need and opportunity.