18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.29 percent of the residents in 18510 has some form of health insurance. 37.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.96 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 18510 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,679 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18510. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,855 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,022 health care providers accessible to residents in 18510, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below provides a comprehensive assessment of arthritis care and primary care availability within Scranton, Pennsylvania's 18510 ZIP code, focusing on key indicators relevant to patient experience and access. This analysis aims to provide insights into the local healthcare landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately offering a perspective on the overall 'Arthritis Score' for the area.

Evaluating the quality of arthritis care and primary care access in a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. We begin by examining physician-to-patient ratios. This metric provides a fundamental understanding of the potential workload each physician faces. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests better access and potentially shorter wait times for appointments. Conversely, a higher ratio might indicate a strain on resources, potentially leading to delayed care. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates of physician density, although these figures often represent averages across broader geographic areas and may not perfectly reflect the reality within a single ZIP code.

Beyond raw numbers, the type of physician matters. In the context of arthritis, the availability of rheumatologists is crucial. Rheumatologists are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. Their presence in the area is a significant positive factor. Primary care physicians (PCPs) also play a vital role, acting as the first point of contact for patients and often managing chronic conditions like arthritis in conjunction with specialists. The balance between primary care and specialist availability is therefore essential.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves assessing factors beyond simple physician counts. We need to consider patient reviews, which offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction with care quality, communication, and appointment scheduling. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Zocdoc can provide a wealth of patient feedback. Furthermore, the presence of specialized services, such as on-site physical therapy, diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs), and infusion centers, can significantly enhance the convenience and efficiency of care for arthritis patients. Practices that offer these comprehensive services often receive higher marks.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the modern healthcare landscape. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in underserved areas. The availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online patient portals can streamline the process of managing arthritis. Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies are generally better positioned to provide convenient and accessible care. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors like internet access and digital literacy among patients.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked but critical component of arthritis care. Chronic pain and disability can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists and therapists, within the practice or through referrals is essential. Practices that recognize the link between physical and mental health and offer integrated care are more likely to provide holistic and patient-centered care. The presence of support groups and educational resources for patients can also contribute to improved mental well-being.

Primary care availability in Scranton, specifically within the 18510 ZIP code, is a key factor influencing the overall 'Arthritis Score'. Primary care physicians serve as the entry point to the healthcare system for many patients, and their accessibility is crucial for early diagnosis and management of arthritis. The number of PCPs, their acceptance of new patients, and the availability of same-day or next-day appointments are all important considerations. The presence of urgent care clinics and walk-in clinics can also provide valuable options for patients seeking immediate care.

The assessment of primary care availability also needs to consider the demographic characteristics of the population within the 18510 ZIP code. Factors like age, socioeconomic status, and insurance coverage can significantly impact access to care. Areas with a high proportion of elderly residents or those with limited financial resources may face greater challenges in accessing primary care. The availability of free or low-cost clinics and the acceptance of various insurance plans are therefore important indicators.

The integration of electronic health records (EHRs) is another factor that can impact the quality of care. EHRs allow physicians to share patient information more easily, improving coordination of care and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are often better equipped to manage chronic conditions like arthritis. The ability to access patient records electronically also facilitates telemedicine consultations and remote monitoring.

In conclusion, the 'Arthritis Score' for doctors in the 18510 ZIP code and primary care availability in Scranton is a complex assessment. It depends on a combination of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall accessibility of primary care. While a definitive numerical score is difficult to provide without comprehensive data, this analysis provides a framework for evaluating the local healthcare landscape and identifying areas of strength and weakness.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Scranton and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility distribution, and demographic data, allowing for a more informed assessment of access to care and the overall 'Arthritis Score'.