18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.63 percent of the residents in 18614 has some form of health insurance. 48.39 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.24 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 18614 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 230 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18614. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 537 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 179 health care providers accessible to residents in 18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18614 and Primary Care Availability in Dushore

Analyzing the accessibility and quality of arthritis care within ZIP Code 18614, encompassing Dushore, Pennsylvania, and assessing the primary care landscape, requires a nuanced understanding of available resources, physician-to-patient ratios, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis, presented as an "Arthritis Score," aims to provide a comprehensive overview, acknowledging the limitations of publicly available data in a rural setting.

The foundation of any arthritis care assessment lies in the availability of qualified medical professionals. In the context of Dushore, the number of rheumatologists and general practitioners with a specific focus on musculoskeletal health is a critical factor. Publicly accessible databases, such as those maintained by the American Medical Association (AMA) or the Pennsylvania Medical Society, can offer a starting point. However, these resources may not always reflect the most current information regarding practice affiliations, patient load, or specific areas of expertise.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a vital metric. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can indicate potential access challenges. The population of Dushore and the surrounding areas within 18614 must be considered. If the area has a relatively high elderly population, who are statistically more likely to experience arthritis, the demand for rheumatological and primary care services increases. This demographic consideration is paramount in assessing the adequacy of care.

Standout practices within the region should be identified. This requires investigation beyond simple online directories. Local patient reviews, if available, can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction, wait times, and the overall quality of care. Moreover, analyzing the services offered by local practices is crucial. Do they offer a full range of diagnostic tools, such as X-rays and MRIs? Do they have physical therapy departments or partnerships with rehabilitation centers? The availability of these ancillary services directly impacts the patient experience and the effectiveness of treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. In a rural area like Dushore, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with specialists who may be located further away. The Arthritis Score should evaluate the extent to which local practices have embraced telemedicine. Do they offer virtual consultations? Do they utilize remote monitoring technologies to track patient progress? The integration of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in arthritis care, but they are a critical component of overall well-being. Chronic pain, which is a hallmark of many forms of arthritis, can significantly impact mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and other psychological issues. The Arthritis Score should assess the availability of mental health services within the community. Are there mental health professionals who specialize in chronic pain management? Do local practices offer integrated mental health services or referrals to qualified providers? The integration of mental health support is essential for comprehensive arthritis care.

Further complicating the assessment is the potential for specialists who serve the area but are located outside of the immediate ZIP code. Access to specialists in nearby towns, such as Towanda or Williamsport, should be considered. The Arthritis Score must factor in the travel time and ease of access to these external resources. This is particularly important for patients who require specialized treatments or consultations that are not available locally.

The availability of support groups and educational resources is also important. Local community centers, hospitals, and arthritis foundations may offer support groups where patients can share experiences and learn coping strategies. The Arthritis Score should consider the presence of these resources and their accessibility to patients within the community. Patient education is crucial for managing arthritis effectively, and access to reliable information can empower patients to take control of their health.

The availability of physical therapy services is essential for managing arthritis. Physical therapists can help patients maintain mobility, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life. The Arthritis Score should assess the availability of physical therapy clinics in the area and the expertise of the therapists in treating arthritis patients. The proximity of these services and their integration with primary care and rheumatology practices are important considerations.

Finally, the Arthritis Score must consider the overall healthcare infrastructure in the region. The presence of a well-equipped hospital or medical center is a significant advantage. The availability of emergency services, diagnostic imaging, and specialized medical equipment can greatly enhance the quality of care. The Arthritis Score should evaluate the infrastructure and its ability to support the needs of arthritis patients.

The limitations of this analysis must be acknowledged. The availability of detailed data on physician practice patterns, patient outcomes, and resource utilization is often limited, particularly in rural areas. The Arthritis Score is, therefore, a composite assessment based on the available information and professional judgment. It is intended to provide a general overview of the healthcare landscape and highlight areas where improvements may be needed.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in ZIP Code 18614, consider exploring the region using interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare providers, facilities, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more comprehensive and intuitive analysis. Use CartoChrome maps to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources and gain valuable insights into the accessibility and quality of arthritis care in Dushore and the surrounding areas.