18371, Tamiment, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18371, Tamiment, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18371 has some form of health insurance. 73.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.26 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 18371 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 86 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18371. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 235 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,866 health care providers accessible to residents in 18371, Tamiment, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18371 and Primary Care Availability in Tamiment

This analysis provides an “Arthritis Score” assessment of healthcare resources within ZIP code 18371 and specifically focuses on primary care availability in the adjacent community of Tamiment. The “Arthritis Score” is a composite metric, evaluating factors crucial for effective arthritis management, including physician access, practice quality, technological integration, and the availability of supportive services. This score is not a formal, standardized medical rating, but a practical assessment of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing arthritis.

The core of the analysis begins with physician access. ZIP code 18371, encompassing the areas surrounding Tamiment, presents a unique challenge: it is a geographically expansive area with a relatively low population density. This immediately impacts the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and increased travel distances. While precise physician counts are dynamic and require constant updating, publicly available data, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) physician directory and state medical board databases, can provide an initial estimate. These sources, combined with information from local hospital systems and community health centers, allow for a basic calculation of the primary care physician-to-population ratio. A low ratio will negatively impact the “Arthritis Score.”

The availability of rheumatologists, specialists in arthritis and related conditions, is also critical. Arthritis management often requires specialized expertise for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The presence of rheumatologists within the immediate area or within a reasonable commuting distance is a significant factor. The absence of rheumatologists necessitates referrals to specialists in other areas, potentially increasing travel burdens and delaying access to specialized care. This factor will be a key determinant of the “Arthritis Score.”

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. This involves assessing the practices' infrastructure, staffing, and commitment to patient care. Factors to consider include the presence of on-site diagnostic capabilities (e.g., X-ray machines), the availability of physical therapy and occupational therapy services, and the practice's overall approach to patient education and chronic disease management. Practices that prioritize patient communication, offer comprehensive care plans, and actively engage patients in their treatment are likely to receive higher scores.

The adoption of telemedicine is another vital element. Telemedicine, including video consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide timely care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance patient convenience. The extent of telemedicine integration will positively influence the “Arthritis Score.”

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of arthritis management. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the local healthcare system is essential. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care models, either through in-house providers or through referrals to external mental health specialists, are better equipped to provide holistic care. The presence and accessibility of these resources will directly impact the “Arthritis Score.”

Focusing specifically on Tamiment, the analysis considers the primary care availability within this community. Tamiment's proximity to ZIP code 18371 means that residents often rely on the same healthcare resources. The presence of a local primary care clinic or the proximity of nearby practices significantly impacts the accessibility of care for Tamiment residents. Factors such as the clinic's hours of operation, the acceptance of various insurance plans, and the availability of same-day appointments are all relevant. The ease of access to primary care within Tamiment will be a crucial factor in determining the overall “Arthritis Score.”

Assessing the “Arthritis Score” also involves identifying standout practices within ZIP code 18371. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. They may have a strong reputation within the community, offer a comprehensive range of services, or have embraced innovative technologies to improve patient outcomes. Identifying these practices is important for highlighting best practices and providing patients with information about the most effective healthcare options available.

The analysis also considers the integration of patient education and support groups. Arthritis management is an ongoing process, and patients benefit from having access to educational resources and support networks. Practices that offer patient education materials, such as brochures, online resources, and workshops, empower patients to take an active role in their care. The availability of local support groups, where patients can connect with others who are managing similar conditions, can provide valuable emotional support and practical advice. These elements positively influence the “Arthritis Score.”

The analysis also considers the availability of specialized services like physical therapy and occupational therapy. These therapies are often essential for managing pain, improving mobility, and maintaining function in individuals with arthritis. The presence of these services within the primary care practices or in close proximity to the practices is a significant factor in the overall “Arthritis Score.”

In conclusion, the “Arthritis Score” for doctors in ZIP code 18371 and primary care availability in Tamiment is a complex assessment. It requires evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialized care, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and patient support services. The specific score will depend on the availability of reliable data and the dynamic nature of the healthcare landscape.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 18371 and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can help you visualize physician locations, identify healthcare resources, and understand the geographic distribution of care.