18462, Starrucca, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18462, Starrucca, Pennsylvania is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.92 percent of the residents in 18462 has some form of health insurance. 31.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.69 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 18462 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 107 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18462. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 100 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 569 health care providers accessible to residents in 18462, Starrucca, Pennsylvania.

**Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18462 and Primary Care Availability in Starrucca**

Analyzing the medical landscape of ZIP Code 18462 (which encompasses Starrucca, PA) requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing access to care for conditions like arthritis. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in determining an “Arthritis Score” reflecting the ease with which residents can manage their condition.

Starrucca, a small community nestled in the Pennsylvania countryside, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. Rural areas often face shortages of medical professionals and limited resources. The “Arthritis Score” here will be heavily influenced by these factors.

The foundation of arthritis management relies on accessible primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact, providing initial diagnoses, treatment plans, and referrals to specialists. Evaluating the availability of PCPs in 18462 is paramount. This involves assessing the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas that serve Starrucca residents. A low physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the “Arthritis Score,” as it could lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is critical. Are the PCPs familiar with arthritis management? Do they offer comprehensive assessments, including physical examinations, laboratory tests, and imaging referrals? The “Arthritis Score” will consider the level of expertise and the breadth of services offered by local PCPs.

Specialized care is vital for effective arthritis management. Rheumatologists, specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and related conditions, are essential. Their availability within a reasonable travel distance from Starrucca directly impacts the “Arthritis Score.” If residents must travel long distances to see a rheumatologist, it creates a significant barrier to care, especially for those with mobility limitations often associated with arthritis. The analysis will identify the nearest rheumatology practices and assess the ease of access to their services.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve the “Arthritis Score” in rural areas like Starrucca. Remote consultations with PCPs and specialists can reduce travel burdens and improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management. The analysis will investigate the adoption of telemedicine by local healthcare providers. Are virtual appointments offered? Are remote monitoring tools used to track patient progress? The presence and utilization of telemedicine will positively influence the “Arthritis Score.”

Mental health is inextricably linked to arthritis management. Chronic pain and disability can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Integrated care, where mental health services are offered alongside medical care, is crucial. The “Arthritis Score” will assess the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system. Are mental health professionals available for consultation and therapy? Are there integrated programs that address both physical and mental well-being? The presence of these resources will significantly boost the score.

The “Arthritis Score” will also consider the availability of other supportive services. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management clinics are essential for managing arthritis symptoms and improving quality of life. The analysis will identify these resources and assess their accessibility. Are they conveniently located? Do they accept the same insurance plans as local PCPs and specialists? The ease of access to these services will impact the overall score.

Identifying standout practices is a key component of the analysis. Are there any primary care practices or specialist clinics that are particularly well-equipped to manage arthritis? Do they offer comprehensive services, including early diagnosis, aggressive treatment, and patient education? Are they known for their patient-centered approach and commitment to providing high-quality care? The identification of these practices will highlight areas of strength within the local healthcare system.

The “Arthritis Score” will also consider the availability of patient education and support resources. Are there arthritis support groups in the area? Are educational materials readily available? Does the local healthcare system actively promote patient self-management and provide resources to help patients cope with their condition? The presence of these resources will positively influence the score, as they empower patients to take an active role in their care.

The analysis will consider insurance coverage. The acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, will affect the accessibility of care for all residents, especially those with limited financial resources. The “Arthritis Score” will reflect the breadth of insurance options accepted by local providers.

The analysis will involve a review of online resources, including physician directories, hospital websites, and patient reviews. These sources provide valuable insights into the availability of care, the quality of services, and the patient experience. This information will be incorporated into the “Arthritis Score.”

The “Arthritis Score” is not just a number; it's a reflection of the overall healthcare environment in 18462. It considers the availability of resources, the quality of care, and the patient experience. The score will be a valuable tool for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers, highlighting areas of strength and areas that need improvement. It will also provide a basis for future assessments, allowing for tracking of progress and the identification of emerging trends in arthritis care.

The final “Arthritis Score” for 18462 will be a composite measure, reflecting the availability of PCPs, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of supportive services. It will also consider the quality of care, the patient experience, and the accessibility of services for all residents. The score will be presented in a clear and concise format, providing a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape in Starrucca and the surrounding area.

To visualize the data and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to utilize the power of CartoChrome maps. Explore the data and identify the areas of greatest need.