The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 92.37 percent of the residents in 18439 has some form of health insurance. 46.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.69 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 18439 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 101 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18439. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 68 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 589 health care providers accessible to residents in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania
Arthritis Score | 61 |
---|---|
People Score | 91 |
Provider Score | 23 |
Hospital Score | 56 |
Travel Score | 37 |
18439 | Lakewood | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
The analysis below assesses the landscape of arthritis care and primary care access within ZIP Code 18439, encompassing Lakewood, Pennsylvania. This evaluation considers factors crucial to patient well-being, including physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and the provision of mental health services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem, particularly for individuals managing arthritis and seeking accessible primary care.
**Physician Availability and Patient Ratios**
The physician-to-patient ratio in Lakewood, 18439, is a critical metric for assessing healthcare accessibility. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially, a decline in the quality of care delivered. Data analysis reveals a potential strain on resources, suggesting that the area may have a lower-than-average physician density compared to national benchmarks. This necessitates a closer look at how existing practices are managing patient loads and whether there are initiatives to attract new healthcare professionals to the area. The specific numbers need to be confirmed, but preliminary investigations suggest a need for improvement.
**Arthritis Care: A Deeper Dive**
Arthritis, a debilitating condition affecting millions, requires specialized care. The availability of rheumatologists, the specialists who diagnose and treat arthritis, is a crucial aspect of healthcare access. Furthermore, the presence of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pain management specialists is also essential for comprehensive arthritis care. The analysis indicates that the availability of rheumatologists in Lakewood is a significant concern. Patients may have to travel considerable distances to access specialized care, which can be a burden for those already managing chronic pain and mobility issues. The integration of these specialists within a collaborative care model, where primary care physicians, rheumatologists, and therapists work together, is highly desirable.
**Primary Care Availability**
Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the entry point to the healthcare system. They are responsible for providing preventive care, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating referrals to specialists. The accessibility of PCPs is therefore paramount. The evaluation reveals that primary care availability in Lakewood is also potentially limited. This can translate into longer wait times for routine checkups, difficulty in obtaining timely referrals, and a potential for delayed diagnoses and treatment. The impact on patients with arthritis is particularly significant, as they often require regular monitoring and management of their condition by a PCP.
**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics**
Identifying standout practices within the area is critical. These practices often serve as models for best practices in patient care. Characteristics to consider include patient satisfaction scores, the use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient information management, and the implementation of patient-centered care models. Practices that embrace telemedicine and offer extended hours are also highly regarded. These practices are often characterized by a strong commitment to patient education, proactive communication, and a focus on preventative care. Further investigation into the specific practices within 18439 is necessary to identify those that are excelling in these areas.
**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Gap**
Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has emerged as a vital tool, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens, and enhance the convenience of healthcare delivery. The analysis assesses the extent to which practices in Lakewood have embraced telemedicine. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities, and online patient portals. The successful implementation of telemedicine requires robust infrastructure, including reliable internet access, and a willingness on the part of both physicians and patients to embrace this technology. The assessment will determine the current state of telemedicine adoption within the area.
**Mental Health Resources: An Integrated Approach**
The link between physical health and mental well-being is undeniable. Patients with chronic conditions like arthritis often experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, including therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups, is crucial for providing comprehensive care. The analysis explores the integration of mental health services within the healthcare ecosystem in Lakewood. This includes the availability of on-site mental health professionals, referrals to mental health specialists, and the integration of mental health screenings into routine care. The goal is to assess whether patients have access to the mental health support they need to manage their condition effectively.
**Specifics and Nuances**
The analysis will delve into specifics. It will identify the names of practices, where possible, and their specific offerings. This includes details on the availability of specific treatments, such as biologics for arthritis, and the presence of specialized programs, such as physical therapy for arthritis management. The nuances of each practice, including their approach to patient communication, their staff training, and their commitment to patient education, will also be examined. The availability of translation services for non-English speaking patients will also be considered.
**Challenges and Opportunities**
The healthcare landscape in Lakewood, 18439, presents both challenges and opportunities. The potential limitations in physician availability and the need for improved access to specialized care pose significant challenges. However, the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources present opportunities to improve patient care. The area's healthcare system can benefit from attracting new physicians, particularly rheumatologists, and from fostering collaboration between primary care physicians, specialists, and therapists. The analysis will highlight these challenges and opportunities, providing insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients.
**Conclusion**
The analysis reveals a complex healthcare environment in Lakewood, PA. While the specifics require further investigation, preliminary findings suggest areas for improvement. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the current state of healthcare access, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the system. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, healthcare providers and policymakers can work together to improve the quality of care and ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare services they need.
**Call to Action**
To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lakewood, PA, and to explore physician locations, practice details, and resource availability, we encourage you to visit CartoChrome maps. This platform provides an interactive visualization of healthcare data, allowing you to explore the specifics of the area and make informed decisions about your healthcare.
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