18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.98 percent of the residents in 18818 has some form of health insurance. 38.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.47 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 18818 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18818. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 248 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 230 health care providers accessible to residents in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18818 and Primary Care in Friendsville

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 18818, specifically focusing on their suitability for patients managing arthritis. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial factors influencing the well-being of individuals living with arthritis. The analysis also extends to primary care availability in the nearby town of Friendsville, offering a broader perspective on healthcare access within the region.

The geographical area encompassed by ZIP code 18818, likely a rural or semi-rural region, presents unique challenges in healthcare access. One of the primary concerns is the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Data on this ratio is crucial. Publicly available information from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or state medical boards should be consulted to ascertain the exact figures for 18818. Furthermore, the age and specialization of the physicians are important. Are there enough board-certified PCPs? Are there any rheumatologists or specialists with a focus on musculoskeletal conditions within a reasonable driving distance? The presence of these specialists significantly impacts the quality of arthritis care.

Identifying standout practices within 18818 is essential. A "standout" practice is defined by several factors. First, the practice should have a strong reputation, reflected in patient reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals. These reviews offer insights into patient experiences, including communication skills, wait times, and the overall quality of care. Second, the practice should demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, adhering to the latest guidelines for arthritis management. This can be assessed by examining the practice's website or asking about their approach to treatment during a preliminary phone call. Third, practices with integrated services, such as on-site physical therapy or access to a dietician specializing in inflammatory conditions, would be highly valuable for arthritis patients. Finally, practices actively participating in clinical trials or research related to arthritis would suggest a commitment to innovation and improved patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. For patients with arthritis, who may experience mobility limitations or chronic pain, telemedicine offers a convenient and accessible alternative to in-person appointments. Telemedicine can facilitate medication management, follow-up consultations, and remote monitoring of symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual visits and secure online portals for communication, are better equipped to serve the needs of arthritis patients. However, it's important to assess the quality of telemedicine services. Does the practice use secure platforms? Are the virtual visits conducted by qualified healthcare professionals? Does the practice provide technical support for patients unfamiliar with technology?

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is vitally important for individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis. Chronic pain and disability can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and offer integrated mental health services, such as on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. It's important to assess the availability of these resources. Are mental health professionals readily accessible? Does the practice collaborate with mental health providers to coordinate care? Does the practice screen patients for mental health conditions?

Moving to Friendsville, a town in the vicinity of 18818, the primary care landscape should be analyzed for availability. This involves assessing the number of PCPs, their locations, and their ability to accept new patients. The ease of access to primary care in Friendsville can significantly impact the healthcare options available to residents of 18818, especially if there is a shortage of PCPs within the ZIP code. Factors such as transportation options, travel times, and the availability of public transportation should also be considered.

Evaluating the primary care landscape in Friendsville requires a similar approach to the analysis of 18818. The physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources should be carefully assessed. Are there any practices in Friendsville that offer specialized services or have a strong reputation for treating arthritis patients? Are there any barriers to accessing care in Friendsville, such as long wait times or limited appointment availability?

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to provide a comprehensive overview of the primary care landscape in 18818 and Friendsville, specifically from the perspective of arthritis patients. By examining the physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the integration of mental health resources, we can gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system in this region. The findings can be used to inform patients about their healthcare options, to guide healthcare providers in improving their services, and to advocate for policies that enhance access to quality care for individuals with arthritis.

The information gathered for this analysis is dynamic and subject to change. Healthcare providers open and close, telemedicine platforms evolve, and mental health resources are added or removed. To maintain an up-to-date and accurate view of the healthcare landscape in 18818 and Friendsville, it is essential to regularly consult reliable data sources and conduct ongoing assessments. The findings should be viewed as a snapshot in time, providing valuable insights but requiring continuous monitoring and refinement.

Understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources is critical for both patients and healthcare providers. Visualizing this information on a map can provide a powerful and intuitive understanding of access to care.

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