26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 26104 has some form of health insurance. 45.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.43 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 26104 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,514 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 4 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26104. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,613 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,017 health care providers accessible to residents in 26104, Parkersburg, West Virginia.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Parkersburg, WV (ZIP Code 26104)

Parkersburg, West Virginia, nestled along the Ohio River, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering the availability and quality of care for individuals suffering from arthritis. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 26104, aims to provide an 'Arthritis Score' assessment, considering factors crucial for patients managing this chronic condition. This score isn’t a single number, but a comprehensive evaluation of various elements influencing the quality of life for arthritis sufferers in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of good arthritis care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Parkersburg, the primary care landscape is a critical determinant. The physician-to-patient ratio within 26104 must be carefully examined. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can lead to delayed diagnoses, limited access to routine checkups, and ultimately, poorer disease management. This shortage can exacerbate the challenges faced by arthritis patients, who require consistent monitoring and medication management. A thorough investigation of the local health systems, including WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center and other smaller clinics, is essential to determine the current PCP-to-patient ratio and its impact.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Do PCPs in Parkersburg possess a strong understanding of arthritis and its various forms? Do they actively screen for the condition, and do they make timely referrals to rheumatologists when necessary? The analysis must delve into the training and experience of local PCPs, assessing their familiarity with current arthritis treatment guidelines and their willingness to embrace a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

The presence of rheumatologists is another critical factor. Rheumatologists are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. The availability of rheumatologists within 26104 and the surrounding areas is a key indicator of arthritis care quality. The analysis should determine the number of rheumatologists, their accessibility (considering appointment wait times), and their experience in treating different types of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.

Standout practices in Parkersburg, if any, deserve special recognition. These practices may be characterized by innovative approaches to patient care, such as patient education programs, support groups, or integrated physical therapy services. The analysis should identify and highlight any practices that demonstrate a commitment to providing comprehensive and patient-centered arthritis care. This includes assessing their use of electronic health records, their communication strategies with patients, and their overall patient satisfaction levels.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Parkersburg. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care by enabling remote consultations with specialists, medication management, and follow-up appointments. The analysis should assess the extent to which local healthcare providers have embraced telemedicine, the types of services offered remotely, and the availability of technology to support these services. This includes looking at the availability of remote monitoring devices and the ease of use for patients.

The mental health aspect of arthritis management is often overlooked, but it is vitally important. Chronic pain and disability can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The analysis must assess the availability of mental health resources in Parkersburg, including access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. This includes assessing the integration of mental health services within the local healthcare system and the availability of programs specifically designed to address the psychological challenges associated with arthritis.

Accessibility is another critical consideration. The analysis must evaluate the geographic distribution of healthcare providers, the availability of public transportation, and the ease of access for patients with mobility limitations. This includes assessing the physical accessibility of medical facilities, such as the availability of ramps, elevators, and accessible parking.

The cost of care is another crucial factor. The analysis should consider the affordability of healthcare services in Parkersburg, including the cost of physician visits, medications, and physical therapy. This includes assessing the availability of financial assistance programs and the acceptance of various insurance plans.

The quality of physical therapy services is also important. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing arthritis symptoms, improving mobility, and preventing further disability. The analysis should assess the availability of qualified physical therapists in Parkersburg, their experience in treating arthritis patients, and the types of therapies offered, such as exercise programs, manual therapy, and assistive devices.

Finally, patient education and support are essential components of effective arthritis management. The analysis should evaluate the availability of patient education resources, such as brochures, online materials, and support groups. This includes assessing the availability of programs that empower patients to actively participate in their own care, such as self-management workshops and peer support groups.

In conclusion, the 'Arthritis Score' for Parkersburg, WV (ZIP Code 26104) is determined by a complex interplay of factors. While a comprehensive assessment requires detailed data collection and analysis, the above discussion provides a framework for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in relation to arthritis care. This includes the PCP to patient ratio, availability of rheumatologists, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, accessibility, cost, and the availability of physical therapy and patient education.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of physicians, clinics, and pharmacies, and to explore the geographic accessibility of care, we encourage you to visit CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Parkersburg, allowing for a more informed assessment of arthritis care accessibility and availability.