18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.44 percent of the residents in 18702 has some form of health insurance. 45.52 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.29 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 18702 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10,062 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18702. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,408 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,893 health care providers accessible to residents in 18702, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Wilkes Barre (18702)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of arthritis care within the 18702 ZIP code, focusing on primary care physicians (PCPs) and related resources in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. We aim to provide an "Arthritis Score" assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, technology adoption, and access to mental health support, all crucial for comprehensive arthritis management.

Wilkes Barre, a city with a significant aging population, faces unique challenges in healthcare access. The prevalence of arthritis, a condition often associated with age, necessitates a robust healthcare infrastructure capable of providing timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. This analysis examines the current landscape to determine its readiness to meet these needs.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 18702, and indeed in the broader Wilkes Barre area, is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, access to PCPs is often cited as a concern. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. This is particularly problematic for arthritis, where early intervention is often key to managing symptoms and slowing disease progression. The ability to see a doctor promptly is therefore a significant factor in our Arthritis Score.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the specialization of those physicians is crucial. While PCPs often serve as the initial point of contact, the availability of rheumatologists, specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis, is paramount. The concentration of rheumatologists within the 18702 ZIP code and the surrounding areas directly impacts the Arthritis Score. Easy access to these specialists is essential for accurate diagnosis, advanced treatment options (including biologics and other disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs), and ongoing monitoring.

Standout practices within the region contribute significantly to the overall score. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, utilizing evidence-based treatment protocols, and actively participating in research or clinical trials, receive higher ratings. These practices often offer a more comprehensive approach, incorporating physical therapy, occupational therapy, and patient education programs, all vital components of effective arthritis management. The inclusion of these services within a practice directly improves the Arthritis Score.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. The ability to offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities significantly enhances access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in more remote areas. Telemedicine can facilitate medication management, symptom tracking, and provide ongoing support, improving patient outcomes and overall quality of life. Practices actively embracing telemedicine are therefore awarded a higher score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of arthritis care, yet their importance cannot be overstated. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or readily available referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care and are therefore rated more favorably. The availability of these resources directly influences the Arthritis Score.

The presence of support groups and patient education programs also contributes to the overall score. These resources empower patients to actively manage their condition, providing them with valuable information, coping strategies, and a sense of community. Practices that actively promote and facilitate access to these resources are considered to be providing superior care.

The overall infrastructure of the local healthcare system also plays a role. The availability of diagnostic imaging services (such as X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds), pharmacies specializing in arthritis medications, and access to physical therapy and rehabilitation centers are all essential components of a comprehensive arthritis care system. The ease of access to these ancillary services directly impacts the Arthritis Score.

The quality of care also depends on the use of technology. Electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for seamless communication between physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers are crucial for coordinating care and ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate and timely treatment. Practices that actively utilize EHRs and other technological advancements receive a higher score.

The overall Arthritis Score for 18702 reflects a complex interplay of these factors. While the specific score is difficult to quantify without a detailed, practice-by-practice assessment, the analysis highlights key areas for improvement. Addressing physician shortages, increasing the availability of rheumatologists, promoting telemedicine adoption, and integrating mental health services are all crucial steps toward improving arthritis care in Wilkes Barre.

The analysis underscores the need for a data-driven approach to healthcare planning and resource allocation. Understanding the specific needs of the community and the strengths and weaknesses of the existing healthcare infrastructure is essential for developing effective strategies to improve patient outcomes. The data should be used to inform policy decisions and to guide healthcare providers in their efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of care.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Wilkes Barre, including the distribution of physicians, the location of specialized services, and other relevant data points, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping solutions that can help you visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing valuable insights into the accessibility and availability of care in your community.