26421, Pullman, West Virginia Arthritis Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Arthritis Score in 26421, Pullman, West Virginia is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 77.42 percent of the residents in 26421 has some form of health insurance. 59.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 22.04 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 26421 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 36 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 26421. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 41 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 74 health care providers accessible to residents in 26421, Pullman, West Virginia.

## Arthritis Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 26421 & Primary Care in Pullman

This analysis provides an Arthritis Score assessment for physicians practicing within ZIP code 26421 and evaluates primary care availability in Pullman, Washington, focusing on factors relevant to arthritis sufferers. The assessment incorporates physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical elements for effective arthritis management.

ZIP code 26421, though not a real ZIP code, serves as a placeholder for this analysis. We will assume this area is a hypothetical rural community with a population of 10,000. Pullman, Washington, a city with a population of approximately 33,000, will be used as the benchmark for comparison and primary care evaluation.

The foundation of any arthritis score rests on access to qualified medical professionals. In our hypothetical ZIP code, the physician-to-patient ratio is assumed to be low, perhaps 1:2000, indicating a potential shortage of primary care physicians. This scarcity necessitates longer wait times for appointments and potentially limits access to specialized care, such as rheumatology. Pullman, with its larger population and presence of a regional medical center, likely boasts a more favorable ratio, perhaps 1:1000, offering better access to primary care and potential referrals to specialists.

Standout practices in both locations are evaluated based on several criteria. The presence of dedicated rheumatologists is paramount. In 26421, the absence of a rheumatologist would significantly lower the Arthritis Score. In Pullman, the presence of a rheumatology clinic, even if it serves a wider geographic area, would be a significant positive. Furthermore, the integration of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management services within a practice elevates its score. Practices offering these multidisciplinary approaches provide comprehensive care, addressing the multifaceted challenges of arthritis. We'll also consider the availability of on-site diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays and MRIs, which streamlines the diagnostic process and reduces patient burden.

Telemedicine adoption plays a crucial role in improving access to care, especially in rural areas like our hypothetical 26421. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms for virtual consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments receive a higher score. This is particularly beneficial for arthritis patients who may experience mobility limitations or live far from medical facilities. In Pullman, telemedicine adoption, while not as critical due to better access, still enhances patient convenience and expands the reach of care providers. The ability to offer remote monitoring of symptoms and provide educational resources via telehealth further strengthens the score.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are essential for arthritis management. Chronic pain and the limitations imposed by arthritis can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, score higher. In 26421, where access to mental health services might be limited, the availability of telehealth options for mental health consultations becomes even more important. Pullman, with its larger healthcare infrastructure, likely offers a broader range of mental health support services, contributing to a higher Arthritis Score.

The Arthritis Score for physicians in 26421 is likely lower than that of Pullman. The rural setting presents challenges related to physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and potentially fewer resources for mental health support. The absence of a rheumatologist would severely impact the score. The score would be significantly improved if practices in 26421 embraced telemedicine to overcome geographical barriers and offer virtual consultations.

Pullman's Arthritis Score is likely higher due to its greater access to healthcare resources. The presence of a regional medical center, a higher physician-to-patient ratio, and a broader range of specialists and support services contribute to a more favorable environment for arthritis patients. The integration of mental health services and the adoption of telemedicine further enhance the score.

Several factors can significantly improve the Arthritis Score in both locations. Increasing the number of primary care physicians, particularly those with experience in musculoskeletal conditions, is crucial. Recruiting and retaining rheumatologists is a top priority, especially in 26421. Investing in telemedicine infrastructure and training healthcare providers in its use is essential for expanding access to care. Promoting the integration of mental health services and providing resources for pain management are also critical.

For patients seeking the best possible arthritis care, understanding the landscape of available resources is vital. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the quality and accessibility of care in specific geographic areas. However, gathering detailed information about individual practices, including their specific services, patient reviews, and insurance acceptance, is essential. This information can be found through online directories, patient testimonials, and direct inquiries to healthcare providers.

To further enhance your understanding of the healthcare landscape and identify practices that best meet your needs, we encourage you to explore the power of visualization. CartoChrome maps offer an interactive platform for mapping healthcare resources, including physician locations, specialist availability, and the proximity of support services. By utilizing CartoChrome maps, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare options available in your area and make informed decisions about your arthritis care.