18458, Shohola, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18458, Shohola, Pennsylvania is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.97 percent of the residents in 18458 has some form of health insurance. 37.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.89 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 18458 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 754 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18458. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 781 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 225 health care providers accessible to residents in 18458, Shohola, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18458 & Primary Care Availability in Shohola

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 18458, encompassing the Shohola, Pennsylvania area, with a specific focus on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, explore telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the integration of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive arthritis care.

The foundation of effective arthritis management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In the Shohola region, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. Determining the precise ratio requires data on the number of practicing PCPs within the 18458 ZIP code and the total population. Publicly available data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide population figures, while physician directories and insurance provider networks offer insights into the number of active PCPs. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially better patient outcomes.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of the available practices are paramount. We'll identify standout practices based on several factors. Firstly, the practice’s experience and specialization in arthritis care. Does the practice have physicians with specific training or a particular interest in rheumatology or musculoskeletal health? Secondly, consider the practice's adoption of technology. Electronic health records (EHRs) are essential for streamlined care, allowing for better communication between providers, efficient management of patient data, and improved medication management. Practices that utilize patient portals to allow patients to access their records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their physicians offer a significant advantage. Thirdly, we will examine patient satisfaction. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice ratings provide valuable insights into the quality of care, patient experience, and overall satisfaction levels.

Telemedicine is increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like arthritis. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide medication management can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas. The analysis will evaluate the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in the 18458 ZIP code. Are virtual appointments offered? Are remote monitoring tools, such as wearable sensors or home blood pressure monitors, utilized to track patient progress? The availability of telemedicine can greatly enhance the convenience and accessibility of arthritis care.

The connection between arthritis and mental health is well-established. Chronic pain, limitations in physical activity, and the overall impact of arthritis can significantly affect mental well-being. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care is a critical component of comprehensive arthritis management. This analysis will assess the availability of mental health services within the practices in 18458. Do practices offer on-site counseling or psychiatric services? Are they affiliated with mental health professionals in the community? Do they screen patients for depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions? The presence of robust mental health support is a key indicator of a practice's commitment to holistic patient care.

The availability of ancillary services is another important factor. Does the practice have access to on-site physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other specialized services relevant to arthritis care? Close proximity to these services can improve patient convenience and facilitate more coordinated care. The analysis will consider the availability of these resources within the practices and the surrounding community.

Furthermore, the analysis will explore the practice's approach to patient education. Do they provide educational materials about arthritis, its management, and lifestyle modifications? Do they offer support groups or educational programs for patients? Patient education is essential for empowering individuals to actively participate in their care and improve their quality of life.

In conclusion, evaluating the availability and quality of primary care for arthritis patients in the Shohola area requires a multi-faceted approach. By examining physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, evaluating mental health resources, and considering the availability of ancillary services and patient education, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. This analysis will provide valuable insights for individuals seeking arthritis care and for healthcare providers striving to improve their services.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, practice locations, and other relevant data, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to easily identify areas with high or low access to care, visualize physician density, and explore the availability of various healthcare services.