18434, Jessup, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18434, Jessup, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.33 percent of the residents in 18434 has some form of health insurance. 46.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.69 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 18434 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 890 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18434. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 652 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,065 health care providers accessible to residents in 18434, Jessup, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Jessup, PA (ZIP Code 18434)

This analysis provides an “Arthritis Score” assessment for medical care related to arthritis within ZIP Code 18434 (Jessup, PA), focusing on primary care physician (PCP) availability and related resources. The "Arthritis Score" is a composite metric, not a single number, reflecting the accessibility and quality of care for individuals suffering from arthritis. It considers factors such as physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health support, all crucial elements in managing this chronic condition.

The foundation of effective arthritis management lies in accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in Jessup, and the surrounding Lackawanna County, is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, generally rural areas often experience lower PCP densities compared to urban centers. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced appointment availability, and potentially less comprehensive care. This initial constraint immediately impacts the Arthritis Score negatively.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the available primary care practices significantly influence the quality of arthritis care. Are practices accepting new patients? Do they offer same-day appointments for urgent needs? Do they have dedicated staff trained in managing chronic conditions like arthritis? Practices with electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for seamless information sharing with specialists, such as rheumatologists, are highly desirable. The presence of on-site diagnostic capabilities, such as X-ray facilities, further enhances convenience and efficiency. Practices lacking these features will receive a lower score component.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, especially for managing chronic conditions. Its adoption rate amongst PCPs in Jessup impacts the Arthritis Score. Practices offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education receive higher scores. Telemedicine can mitigate geographical barriers, particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, thereby improving access to care. Practices that have integrated telemedicine into their workflow, offering a user-friendly platform, receive a better score.

Arthritis is often accompanied by mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is crucial. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns and offer on-site counseling or have established partnerships with mental health providers contribute positively to the Arthritis Score. The absence of such resources or a lack of awareness regarding mental health needs negatively impacts the score.

Standout practices in the area, if any, will be identified and their strengths highlighted. This analysis will look for practices that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive arthritis care. This includes practices that provide patient education materials, offer support groups, or actively participate in community outreach programs. These practices will receive a higher score component.

The analysis will consider the presence of specialists. The proximity and accessibility of rheumatologists and physical therapists are essential components of comprehensive arthritis care. While primary care physicians are the initial point of contact, the ability to quickly and easily access specialized care is crucial for effective management. The ease of referral to rheumatology specialists impacts the score.

The analysis will also consider the availability of ancillary services. Access to physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management specialists is a significant factor in determining the Arthritis Score. Practices that have strong relationships with these specialists or offer these services in-house improve the score. The availability of these services impacts the overall score.

The overall score is not just about the availability of services but also about the patient experience. Patient reviews, if available, will be considered. Practices with positive reviews, indicating patient satisfaction with care, will receive a higher score. This patient-centered approach is a crucial element in assessing the quality of care.

The Arthritis Score is, therefore, a nuanced assessment, considering the multifaceted nature of arthritis management. It is a reflection of the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care available to individuals in Jessup, PA. The score is not a single number but a composite of several factors.

The final score, while not a definitive ranking, provides a valuable snapshot of the medical landscape in Jessup. It highlights areas of strength and weakness, informing both patients seeking care and healthcare providers striving to improve services. The analysis will offer an overall assessment of the availability and quality of care.

The analysis will also consider the impact of insurance coverage. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, increase accessibility for a broader population, thereby improving the overall Arthritis Score.

In conclusion, the "Arthritis Score" analysis for Jessup, PA (ZIP Code 18434) provides a comprehensive assessment of the medical resources available to individuals with arthritis. The analysis considers the physician-to-patient ratio, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the availability of specialists and ancillary services. The overall score reflects the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of care, offering valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

For a visual representation of this data and a deeper understanding of the medical landscape in Jessup and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps.