18826, Kingsley, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 18826, Kingsley, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.25 percent of the residents in 18826 has some form of health insurance. 41.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.95 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 18826 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 239 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18826. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 432 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 173 health care providers accessible to residents in 18826, Kingsley, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18826 & Primary Care in Kingsley

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Kingsley, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18826), specifically focusing on factors relevant to individuals managing arthritis. We will assess the landscape based on physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, evaluate telemedicine adoption, and examine the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in comprehensive arthritis care. This assessment aims to provide a framework for understanding the accessibility and quality of care within this specific geographic area.

Kingsley, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas regarding healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. Determining the exact ratio requires data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar sources, which isn't available for this analysis. However, we can infer potential scenarios. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicative of a shortage of PCPs, would significantly impact arthritis patients. Longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with physicians, and difficulty accessing specialized care are all potential consequences. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access, potentially leading to more comprehensive care and improved patient outcomes.

Identifying standout practices requires analyzing factors beyond just the number of physicians. We need to consider the quality of care, patient reviews, and the range of services offered. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to arthritis management often incorporate specific elements. These include: a multidisciplinary approach (collaboration with rheumatologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists), patient education programs, and a focus on early diagnosis and treatment. While this analysis cannot name specific practices without detailed local data, the presence of these elements would significantly elevate a practice's standing.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. For individuals with arthritis, telemedicine can provide significant benefits. It allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those with mobility limitations or who live far from medical facilities. Practices actively utilizing telemedicine platforms, offering virtual appointments, and integrating remote monitoring technologies would score higher in our assessment. The ease of access to these services can dramatically improve the quality of life for arthritis patients.

The integration of mental health resources is equally important. Arthritis is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental well-being. Pain, limitations in mobility, and the emotional toll of managing a chronic illness can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this and offer access to mental health professionals, either on-site or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This could involve partnerships with therapists, psychiatrists, or the integration of mental health screenings into routine checkups. The availability of these resources is a key indicator of a practice's overall quality.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized services within or near Kingsley is a crucial consideration. While PCPs are the first point of contact, access to rheumatologists, physical therapists, and other specialists is essential for effective arthritis management. The proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the collaboration between PCPs and specialists are all factors that influence the overall quality of care. A practice's ability to navigate the healthcare system effectively, connecting patients with the necessary resources, is paramount.

Another aspect to consider is the practice's approach to patient education. Arthritis patients need to understand their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or access to online resources demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to take an active role in their care. This could include providing information on exercise programs, dietary recommendations, and pain management techniques.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and the integration of technology can also impact the quality of care. EHRs allow for better communication between healthcare providers, improved tracking of patient progress, and more efficient management of medications and test results. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively are often better equipped to provide coordinated and comprehensive care.

In summary, the "Arthritis Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 18826 and primary care availability in Kingsley would be determined by a multifaceted assessment. It would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with multidisciplinary approaches, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the proximity and accessibility of specialists, the emphasis on patient education, and the utilization of technology. Without specific data on these factors, we can only provide a general framework. The higher the availability of these resources and the more effectively they are integrated, the higher the score. The ultimate goal is to ensure that individuals with arthritis in Kingsley have access to comprehensive, coordinated, and patient-centered care.