19014, Aston, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 19014, Aston, Pennsylvania is 98 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.37 percent of the residents in 19014 has some form of health insurance. 27.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.49 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 19014 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,678 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 19014. An estimate of 13 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,438 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 17,278 health care providers accessible to residents in 19014, Aston, Pennsylvania.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Aston, PA (ZIP Code 19014)

This analysis provides an "Arthritis Score" assessment for primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 19014, focusing on factors relevant to arthritis patients. The score isn't a single numerical value, but a composite evaluation based on various metrics, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine availability, and integration of mental health resources. The goal is to offer a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape in Aston, PA, specifically as it relates to the needs of individuals managing arthritis.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and less individualized care. In 19014, the ratio for PCPs needs careful examination. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, alongside information from physician directories and insurance provider websites, would be essential to calculate a precise ratio. This data would then be benchmarked against national and regional averages to determine if Aston faces a potential shortage or surplus of PCPs. A lower ratio, indicating a greater availability of PCPs, would positively impact the "Arthritis Score."

Practice characteristics are equally important. The availability of on-site services, such as X-ray facilities, physical therapy, and rheumatology consultations, significantly enhances the patient experience. A practice offering comprehensive services minimizes the need for patients to travel to multiple locations for care, which can be particularly challenging for those with arthritis. The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is another crucial factor. EHRs streamline communication between providers, improve care coordination, and facilitate the sharing of patient information, all of which are vital for managing a chronic condition like arthritis. Practices with these features would contribute positively to the overall "Arthritis Score."

Standout practices would be those demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care. This involves actively engaging patients in their treatment plans, providing clear and concise information about their condition, and offering support services. Practices that have earned recognition from patient advocacy groups or have received positive reviews from patients on platforms like Healthgrades or Zocdoc would be considered favorably. These practices often prioritize patient education, offering resources on arthritis management, lifestyle modifications, and medication adherence.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of virtual consultations allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. Practices that offer telemedicine options for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even initial consultations would receive a higher score. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, including its accessibility on various devices and the availability of technical support, would also be considered.

Mental health resources are crucial for arthritis patients. Chronic pain and disability can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, would be highly valued. The availability of these resources demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and offer support services would contribute positively to the "Arthritis Score."

The assessment of primary care availability in Aston, PA, also involves considering the accessibility of specialists. While this analysis focuses on PCPs, the ability to quickly access rheumatologists, pain management specialists, and other relevant healthcare providers is crucial for arthritis patients. The proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the availability of appointments all play a role in the overall quality of care. The ability of PCPs to coordinate care with these specialists is also essential.

The "Arthritis Score" would also consider the practice's commitment to patient education. Providing resources on arthritis management, lifestyle modifications, and medication adherence is crucial. Practices that offer educational materials, support groups, or access to online resources would be viewed favorably. Patient education empowers individuals to actively participate in their care and manage their condition effectively.

Furthermore, the assessment would consider the practice's responsiveness to patient needs. This includes the ease of scheduling appointments, the availability of after-hours care, and the responsiveness of the staff to patient inquiries. Practices that prioritize patient communication and provide timely responses to questions and concerns would receive a higher score.

The evaluation of PCPs in 19014 would also consider their experience and expertise in treating arthritis. This includes their knowledge of different types of arthritis, their familiarity with various treatment options, and their ability to manage complex cases. Practices with physicians who have specialized training or certifications in rheumatology or pain management would be considered favorably.

Finally, the "Arthritis Score" would be a dynamic assessment, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve. Regular updates would be necessary to reflect changes in physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This ongoing evaluation would ensure that the "Arthritis Score" remains a relevant and valuable tool for individuals seeking primary care in Aston, PA.

For a detailed visual representation of the primary care landscape in Aston, PA, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and accessibility to specialists, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows you to visualize and analyze healthcare data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.