18505, Scranton, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18505, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 87 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.78 percent of the residents in 18505 has some form of health insurance. 50.91 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.36 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 18505 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,645 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18505. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,717 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,035 health care providers accessible to residents in 18505, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

**Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18505 and Primary Care Availability in Scranton**

Analyzing healthcare access and quality within Scranton's 18505 ZIP code requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis, framed as an "Arthritis Score," assesses the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources, particularly relevant for a condition like arthritis that often necessitates ongoing management and coordinated care. The score considers physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial for patients managing chronic conditions.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment is the physician-to-patient ratio. In 18505, a comprehensive analysis would begin by determining the number of actively practicing PCPs within the ZIP code. This data, coupled with the estimated population of the area, yields a ratio reflecting the potential patient load per physician. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access to care. However, this raw number alone is insufficient. The age and health profile of the population in 18505 must be considered. An older population, for example, is likely to have a higher prevalence of arthritis and other chronic conditions, thus placing greater demands on the primary care system.

Beyond the raw physician count, the characteristics of the practices themselves are critical. Are the practices accepting new patients? Are they accepting the insurance plans commonly used by residents of 18505? What are the wait times for appointments, both for routine check-ups and for urgent needs? The availability of extended hours, weekend appointments, and same-day appointments significantly impacts access to care, particularly for individuals experiencing arthritis flare-ups. Practices with integrated physical therapy, rheumatology referrals, and on-site diagnostic services would contribute to a higher “Arthritis Score,” as they streamline care coordination and reduce the burden on patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of telehealth, and its continued integration into primary care offers significant benefits for arthritis patients. Telemedicine allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, medication management, and virtual consultations, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices actively utilizing telehealth platforms, offering virtual appointments, and providing remote patient monitoring tools would receive a higher score. The ease of use of these platforms and the availability of technical support for patients are also important considerations.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but vital component of arthritis care. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. A high “Arthritis Score” would reflect the availability of mental health services within or in close proximity to the primary care practices. This includes access to on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, and integration of mental health screenings into routine care. Practices that recognize the link between physical and mental health and proactively address these needs would contribute to a more positive patient experience and improved outcomes.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into the specific offerings of each clinic. This would involve researching individual practices within 18505, examining their websites, and reviewing patient testimonials. Practices that demonstrate a patient-centered approach, offer comprehensive services, and actively embrace technology would likely receive high marks. Practices known for their responsiveness to patient needs, their ability to coordinate care effectively, and their commitment to providing a positive patient experience would stand out.

Scranton, as a whole, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Primary care availability in the city is influenced by factors beyond the immediate ZIP code. The presence of hospitals, specialty clinics, and regional healthcare networks all play a role in shaping access to care. The “Arthritis Score” for 18505 should be viewed within this broader context, considering the availability of rheumatologists, physical therapists, and other specialists who are essential for managing arthritis. The accessibility of these specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the coordination of care between primary care and specialty providers are all important factors.

The overall assessment of primary care availability in 18505, and Scranton more broadly, is dynamic. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new practices opening, existing practices adapting, and technological advancements transforming the delivery of care. Regular updates to the “Arthritis Score” are necessary to reflect these changes and provide an accurate picture of the resources available to patients. This analysis is intended as a starting point for understanding the healthcare environment in 18505, highlighting the key factors that impact access to care and the quality of services.

In conclusion, the "Arthritis Score" for 18505, and the primary care availability in Scranton, is a complex assessment. It goes beyond simple physician counts, considering practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape and highlight areas where improvements are needed.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare resources available in 18505 and the surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the data using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, allowing for a more intuitive and insightful analysis.