18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.39 percent of the residents in 18705 has some form of health insurance. 43.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.54 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 18705 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,167 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18705. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,990 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,985 health care providers accessible to residents in 18705, Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Wilkes-Barre, PA (ZIP Code 18705)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of arthritis care within Wilkes-Barre, PA, specifically focusing on ZIP code 18705. We'll evaluate the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs), specialist access, telemedicine integration, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately assigning an "Arthritis Score" reflecting the overall accessibility and comprehensiveness of care. This score is not a numerical value, but rather a descriptive assessment based on the factors explored.

**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective arthritis management often begins with a strong primary care physician. In Wilkes-Barre (18705), the availability of PCPs plays a crucial role in early diagnosis, referral management, and ongoing patient support. A critical element of this evaluation involves analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, coupled with information from healthcare directories like Healthgrades and Zocdoc, provides insights into the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code. However, this data needs to be cross-referenced with insurance provider networks, as access is often dictated by insurance coverage.

Furthermore, the geographic distribution of PCPs within 18705 is essential. Are practices concentrated in specific areas, potentially creating access challenges for residents in other parts of the ZIP code? Analyzing the locations of practices alongside population density data allows for a more nuanced understanding of accessibility. This also considers the availability of after-hours or weekend appointments, which are vital for managing flare-ups and urgent needs.

**Specialist Access and Rheumatology Services:**

Beyond primary care, access to rheumatologists, the specialists who diagnose and treat arthritis, is paramount. The analysis must determine the number of rheumatologists serving the 18705 area, including their practice locations, appointment availability, and acceptance of various insurance plans. Are there any significant gaps in specialist coverage, potentially forcing patients to travel outside the immediate area for care?

The presence of specialized services, such as infusion centers for biologic medications, is another crucial factor. The availability of these services within the ZIP code significantly impacts patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Data on the types of arthritis treated (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus) by local specialists provides further insight into the expertise available.

**Standout Practices and Quality Indicators:**

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating several quality indicators. This includes patient reviews from reputable sources like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews. These reviews offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication, wait times, and overall satisfaction.

Furthermore, assessing the practice's adoption of evidence-based guidelines and treatment protocols is essential. Does the practice adhere to the latest recommendations from organizations like the American College of Rheumatology? Are they actively involved in clinical trials or research, indicating a commitment to staying at the forefront of arthritis care? The presence of certified nurse practitioners (CNPs) or physician assistants (PAs) specializing in rheumatology can also improve access to care and enhance patient support.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Digital Health Integration:**

Telemedicine has transformed healthcare delivery, especially for chronic conditions like arthritis. The analysis must assess the adoption of telemedicine by both PCPs and rheumatologists in 18705. Do practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, or online patient portals? Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically underserved areas.

The integration of digital health tools, such as wearable devices for activity tracking or apps for symptom monitoring, is another important consideration. These tools empower patients to actively manage their condition and provide valuable data to their healthcare providers.

**Mental Health Resources and Integrated Care:**

Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. The analysis must evaluate the integration of mental health resources within the local healthcare system. Are there mental health professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, who specialize in working with patients with chronic pain and illness? Does the healthcare system promote a multidisciplinary approach to care, including collaboration between rheumatologists, PCPs, therapists, and other specialists?

The availability of support groups, educational programs, and resources for managing stress and anxiety is also crucial. These resources can empower patients to cope with the emotional challenges associated with arthritis and improve their overall well-being.

**Overall Assessment and "Arthritis Score":**

Based on the factors discussed above, the "Arthritis Score" for Wilkes-Barre (18705) is a complex assessment. The score is a qualitative judgment, not a simple numerical ranking. The score will reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in providing arthritis care.

A higher score would indicate a system characterized by:

* Adequate PCP and rheumatologist availability.
* Short wait times for appointments.
* Positive patient experiences.
* Adoption of telemedicine and digital health tools.
* Integration of mental health resources.
* Access to specialized services.

Conversely, a lower score would indicate challenges such as:

* Limited access to PCPs or rheumatologists.
* Long wait times.
* Negative patient reviews.
* Limited telemedicine adoption.
* Lack of mental health integration.
* Limited access to specialized services.

The final "Arthritis Score" will reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of arthritis care within the 18705 ZIP code.

**Leverage CartoChrome Maps for Visual Insights:**

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilkes-Barre (18705), visualize the data using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps allow you to overlay demographic data, physician locations, and other relevant information to identify areas with the greatest needs and opportunities for improvement. Explore the power of spatial analysis to make informed decisions about healthcare access and resource allocation.