18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.67 percent of the residents in 18403 has some form of health insurance. 33.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.16 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 18403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,505 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18403. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,060 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,995 health care providers accessible to residents in 18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18403 & Primary Care in Archbald

This analysis evaluates the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within Archbald, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18403), with a specific focus on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. This includes an assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A comprehensive “Arthritis Score” isn't a standardized metric, but this analysis aims to provide a holistic view, identifying strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape for arthritis sufferers.

The foundation of any successful arthritis management plan is access to a qualified and accessible primary care physician. In Archbald, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall availability of PCPs in this region, and particularly within the 18403 ZIP code, should be investigated. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a less proactive approach to arthritis care. Researching the current physician-to-patient ratio is paramount to understanding the accessibility of care.

The presence of "standout practices" significantly impacts the Arthritis Score. These practices are defined by several key characteristics. Firstly, they demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care. This includes a proactive approach to diagnosis, early intervention, and the ongoing management of the disease. This may involve offering in-house rheumatology consultations or having strong referral relationships with rheumatologists in the broader Scranton area. Secondly, standout practices prioritize patient education. They provide patients with the knowledge and resources needed to understand their condition, manage their symptoms, and make informed decisions about their treatment. Finally, these practices demonstrate a patient-centered approach, valuing communication, empathy, and a commitment to individualized care plans. Identifying these practices is crucial for patients seeking the best possible care.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element of the Arthritis Score. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer more frequent check-ins, facilitate medication management, and provide ongoing support, all of which are critical for managing arthritis. Assessing the level of telemedicine adoption within the 18403 area is a key indicator of the accessibility and convenience of care. Does the practice offer virtual appointments? Do they have a secure patient portal for communication and access to medical records? These are vital questions.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health resources is vital for arthritis patients. Chronic pain, disability, and the challenges of managing a chronic illness can significantly impact mental well-being. Practices that recognize this connection and offer, or provide referrals to, mental health services, such as therapists or counselors, are better equipped to provide holistic care. The Arthritis Score needs to consider whether practices screen for mental health issues, and if they have established referral pathways for patients needing these services. This integration is a cornerstone of comprehensive arthritis management.

Beyond the specific practices and services, the broader healthcare ecosystem in Archbald plays a role. The availability of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive services is essential for managing arthritis symptoms and maintaining quality of life. The Arthritis Score should consider the proximity of these services, the ease of access, and the availability of specialized programs for arthritis patients. Similarly, access to local pharmacies and the availability of affordable medications are critical considerations.

Researching the specific practices within the 18403 ZIP code is essential. This involves gathering information on the services offered, the experience of the physicians, and the patient reviews. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc can provide valuable insights into physician ratings, patient experiences, and the specific services offered by each practice. Contacting the practices directly to inquire about their approach to arthritis care, their telemedicine capabilities, and their mental health support services is also highly recommended.

The analysis should also consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in the broader Scranton area, as many residents of Archbald may seek care outside of their immediate ZIP code. The availability of rheumatologists, orthopedic specialists, and other specialists in the region is a crucial factor. The ease of access to these specialists, including the availability of transportation and the acceptance of various insurance plans, should also be assessed. This broader perspective provides a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape available to residents of Archbald.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Arthritis Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 18403 and primary care availability in Archbald requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates considering physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the integration of mental health resources. It also requires a broader understanding of the healthcare infrastructure in the region. By carefully analyzing these factors, individuals with arthritis can make informed decisions about their healthcare and access the best possible care to manage their condition and improve their quality of life.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Archbald, including the location of physicians, specialists, and other relevant services, consider using CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping tools can help you visualize the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare options.