The combination of a medical professional’s title and name, a geographic location, and a means of contact represents essential data for individuals seeking healthcare services. This information enables direct communication with a physician’s office. For instance, a patient requiring specialized medical attention in a specific region would utilize this data to schedule appointments or obtain relevant medical advice.
Ready access to this data streamlines healthcare navigation. It facilitates timely consultations, reduces geographical barriers to accessing medical expertise, and empowers individuals to make informed decisions regarding their health. Historically, access to such information relied heavily on printed directories and word-of-mouth. Modern technology, however, has vastly improved the accessibility and speed with which this information can be obtained.
The following discussion will elaborate on aspects related to finding and verifying physician contact details within specific geographical regions, factors influencing data accuracy, and the ethical considerations surrounding the dissemination of private information.
1. Physician identification
The inclusion of a physician’s name and title within the construct of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” serves as the primary identifier, establishing a direct link to a specific medical professional. Without proper physician identification, the remaining elements – the location (Johnstown, PA) and the phone number – become largely meaningless in a healthcare access context. For instance, a patient searching for specialized dermatological care requires assurance that the provided contact information leads to the intended dermatologist, not a general practitioner or an unrelated business operating in the same locality. Failure to correctly identify the physician compromises the patient’s ability to schedule necessary appointments or receive appropriate medical advice.
Further, physician identification facilitates verification of credentials and specialization. By confirming the physician’s name and title, potential patients can independently research the physician’s qualifications through official medical boards and online databases. This process ensures the physician possesses the necessary expertise to address their specific health concerns. As an example, if a patient requires a pediatric cardiologist, precise physician identification enables the patient to confirm the physician’s board certification in pediatric cardiology, thus ensuring the appropriate level of specialized care. Mismatched or ambiguous identification can lead to misdirected care and potentially adverse health outcomes.
In summary, physician identification constitutes a critical component of accurately and reliably connecting patients with the appropriate medical providers. The clear and unambiguous presentation of the physician’s name and title is essential for facilitating efficient healthcare access, enabling credential verification, and ultimately safeguarding patient well-being. Challenges remain in maintaining data accuracy and preventing instances of misidentification, particularly in regions with numerous medical professionals sharing similar names or specializations. Overcoming these challenges necessitates robust data management practices and stringent verification protocols within healthcare directories and online search platforms.
2. Geographic specificity
Geographic specificity is inextricably linked to the utility of physician contact information. The inclusion of “Johnstown, PA” within the specified query contextualizes the medical professional’s location, rendering the phone number relevant to individuals seeking care within that specific geographic area. Without this specificity, the contact information lacks practical value, as individuals residing outside Johnstown, PA, or its immediate vicinity would likely not benefit from it. The geographic element ensures that search results are tailored to local healthcare options, directly impacting a patient’s ability to access timely and convenient medical assistance. For instance, a resident of Altoona, PA, would find the contact information for a physician in Johnstown, PA, less immediately useful than that of a physician located within their own community, given factors such as travel time, accessibility, and familiarity with local medical networks.
The precise geographic designation also plays a crucial role in disambiguation. Multiple physicians sharing the same name might operate within the broader healthcare landscape. The “Johnstown, PA” component helps to differentiate between these individuals, ensuring that patients contact the intended medical professional. This is particularly relevant in densely populated areas where multiple practitioners may have similar specializations. Furthermore, accurate geographic coding facilitates the integration of this information into local healthcare directories and online mapping services, improving the discoverability of medical services for area residents. An incorrect or missing geographic designation can lead to misdirected inquiries, appointment scheduling errors, and potential delays in receiving necessary medical care.
In summary, geographic specificity is a fundamental requirement for transforming physician contact information into a practical tool for healthcare access. It serves to focus search results, differentiate between practitioners, and integrate information into location-based services. While technological advancements have improved the accuracy and accessibility of geographic data, challenges remain in maintaining data integrity, particularly with physician relocations and practice acquisitions. Addressing these challenges through standardized data collection and verification protocols remains essential for ensuring that patients can efficiently locate and connect with the appropriate medical professionals within their communities.
3. Contact accessibility
Contact accessibility, in the context of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number,” denotes the ease and reliability with which a potential patient can establish communication with the specified medical professional. This is a critical component determining the efficacy of healthcare information dissemination.
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Direct Dial Availability
The direct dial availability of the provided number determines how easily a patient can connect. A directly answered line versus one requiring multiple transfers or a long hold time greatly influences accessibility. A clear, dedicated line for patient inquiries ensures efficient contact. For example, a number that routes directly to the doctor’s office during business hours represents higher accessibility than one that first goes through a centralized hospital switchboard, potentially leading to delays or misdirection.
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Answering Efficiency
Answering efficiency refers to the responsiveness of the contact point. A phone number answered promptly during listed business hours drastically improves accessibility. Conversely, unanswered calls, prolonged hold times, or voicemail systems lacking immediate follow-up severely impede it. The promptness and professionalism of the answering service directly affect a patient’s ability to access medical care and information. A scenario where the phone is consistently answered within a reasonable timeframe showcases a high level of answering efficiency.
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Information Clarity
Information clarity in phone interactions is paramount. The ability of the person answering the call to accurately convey information, schedule appointments, and address patient inquiries enhances contact accessibility. Ambiguous or incomplete information, conversely, leads to confusion and necessitates additional contact attempts, thereby reducing accessibility. For instance, if a patient calls to inquire about appointment availability and receives a clear and precise answer, it indicates good information clarity and efficient communication.
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Accessibility Technologies
Consideration of accessibility technologies broadens the scope. The use of TTY services for hearing-impaired individuals or multilingual support for non-English speakers expands the reach of the phone number. Absence of such features limits accessibility for segments of the population. A practice that offers these accessibility options demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and enhanced patient care. Example is a number that facilitates text-based appointment scheduling or offers translation services.
In summation, these facets highlight the importance of ensuring the provided contact point for “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” is not merely available, but also effectively managed to facilitate efficient and inclusive communication. The confluence of direct dial availability, answering efficiency, information clarity, and accessibility technologies dictates the success with which patients can access medical care through this means.
4. Verification process
The validity and reliability of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” hinge critically on a robust verification process. The absence of such a process introduces the potential for misinformation, leading to wasted time, frustration, and, in the context of healthcare, potentially harmful consequences. Consider, for example, a scenario where a patient attempts to contact a physician using an outdated phone number retrieved from an unverified online directory. The inability to reach the physician’s office could delay urgent medical care or prevent the scheduling of necessary follow-up appointments. This demonstrates a direct cause-and-effect relationship between a deficient verification process and adverse outcomes.
The verification process acts as a safeguard, ensuring the accuracy of each component of the information. This includes confirming the physician’s name, the correctness of the phone number, and the current location of the practice. This is achieved through cross-referencing data with official sources, such as state medical boards, hospital affiliations, and physician group directories. For example, regularly checking the phone number listed with the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine against publicly available data for Dr. Trale confirms its accuracy. This proactive validation mitigates the risk of relying on inaccurate or obsolete information. It should be noted that many third-party sites will be outdated with inaccurate information.
In summary, a meticulous verification process is essential for maintaining the integrity and usefulness of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number.” It serves as a critical filter, eliminating inaccuracies and ensuring that patients have access to reliable and current contact information. While challenges exist in maintaining up-to-date data in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape, the benefits of a robust verification process far outweigh the costs. Adherence to stringent verification protocols contributes directly to improved healthcare access and enhanced patient outcomes. The value of a real-time verification process is more advantageous.
5. Data privacy
The safeguarding of personal information constitutes a fundamental ethical and legal obligation within the healthcare sector. The elements contained within “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” are subject to stringent privacy regulations designed to protect patient confidentiality and prevent unauthorized access or misuse.
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HIPAA Compliance
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) mandates the secure handling of Protected Health Information (PHI). While a phone number, in isolation, may not always constitute PHI, its association with a specific physician (Dr. Trale) and location (Johnstown, PA) can create a link to a patient’s healthcare provider, potentially falling under HIPAA’s purview. Any database storing this information must adhere to HIPAA regulations, including limitations on disclosure and requirements for data security. For example, a marketing company obtaining this information and using it to solicit patients without consent would be in violation of HIPAA regulations.
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Data Security Measures
The entities responsible for collecting, storing, and disseminating “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” must implement robust data security measures to prevent unauthorized access, breaches, and data leaks. These measures include encryption, access controls, regular security audits, and employee training on data privacy practices. A failure to adequately secure this information can expose it to malicious actors who may exploit it for identity theft, phishing scams, or other fraudulent activities. For instance, a poorly secured online directory could be hacked, leading to the exposure of this information to unauthorized third parties.
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Consent and Disclosure
Ethical considerations dictate that the dissemination of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” should only occur with the explicit or implicit consent of the physician. Unauthorized publication of this information, particularly a private phone number, could expose the physician to unwanted solicitations, harassment, or privacy violations. Transparency regarding the purpose of collecting and sharing this information is also essential. For example, a hospital directory publishing a physician’s office number implicitly has the physician’s consent, but selling that number to a third-party vendor without permission would be unethical.
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Data Minimization
The principle of data minimization suggests that only the necessary information should be collected and stored. Collecting extraneous data points alongside “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” increases the risk of privacy breaches and data misuse. Limiting the collection to only essential contact information reduces the potential harm if a data breach were to occur. For instance, it would be inappropriate and a privacy risk to collect and store a physician’s social security number or other sensitive personal information alongside their contact details.
In summation, the handling of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” demands a rigorous commitment to data privacy principles and compliance with applicable regulations. Any entity involved in its collection, storage, or dissemination must prioritize data security, respect individual privacy rights, and adhere to ethical guidelines. A failure to do so can have significant legal, ethical, and reputational consequences, underscoring the importance of embedding data privacy considerations into every aspect of information management.
6. Information accuracy
The reliability of any directory or database containing physician contact information is fundamentally dependent upon the accuracy of the data it presents. In the context of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number,” information accuracy directly influences a patient’s ability to access timely and appropriate medical care. Any discrepancies or errors in this data can lead to delays, miscommunication, and potentially adverse health outcomes.
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Physician Identity Validation
Accurate identification of the physician is paramount. This encompasses not only the correct spelling of the name (“Dr. Trale”) but also the verification of credentials and specialization. Misidentification, such as confusing one Dr. Trale with another practitioner in the same geographic area, renders the provided phone number irrelevant. Validation procedures, cross-referencing with medical board records, are essential to ensure the correct physician is being contacted. For example, confirming Dr. Trale’s license status and specialty through the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine directly contributes to the accuracy of the overall data.
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Phone Number Verification
The provided phone number must be current and accurate. Outdated or incorrect phone numbers result in wasted time and effort for patients attempting to contact the physician. Regular verification of the phone number, contacting the office directly or cross-referencing with verified sources, is crucial. This is especially important given the frequency with which medical practices change phone systems or relocate. A phone number that redirects to a disconnected line or an unrelated business defeats the purpose of providing contact information.
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Geographic Location Confirmation
Accuracy in geographic data (“Johnstown, PA”) is equally important. Incorrect location information can lead patients to search for a physician in the wrong area, rendering the provided phone number unusable. Verification of the practice’s address through official business records and mapping services ensures the accuracy of the geographic component. Discrepancies between the stated location and the actual location of the practice can result in confusion and misdirected inquiries.
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Data Update Frequency
Information accuracy is not a static concept; it requires ongoing maintenance and updates. Medical practices experience changes in personnel, contact information, and location. Regular updates to the data ensure that the provided information remains current and reliable. Databases that are infrequently updated become progressively less accurate and less useful over time. A system with a clearly defined schedule for data validation and updates demonstrates a commitment to information accuracy.
These facets of information accuracy collectively determine the usefulness and reliability of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number.” The absence of accurate data compromises the patient’s ability to connect with the intended physician, potentially leading to negative consequences. Therefore, a focus on data validation, regular updates, and robust verification processes is essential for maintaining the integrity of any healthcare directory or database.
7. Healthcare access
Healthcare access, in its fundamental form, concerns the ability of individuals to obtain timely and appropriate medical services. The availability of accurate contact information, such as embodied in “dr trale johnstown pa phone number,” serves as a critical determinant in facilitating this access, particularly in specific geographic locations.
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Direct Communication Enablement
The primary function of a physician’s contact details is to enable direct communication. Accurate phone numbers provide a conduit for patients to schedule appointments, seek medical advice, or address urgent health concerns. The ability to contact a medical professional directly, without intermediary barriers, significantly enhances healthcare access. In the absence of a valid phone number, patients are forced to resort to alternative, often less efficient, methods of communication, delaying or even preventing timely medical intervention. This direct line provides accessibility when needed.
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Geographic Proximity Facilitation
The inclusion of a specific geographic location, such as “Johnstown, PA,” focuses healthcare access on individuals residing within that region or those seeking medical services in that locality. This geographic specificity ensures that the provided contact information is relevant and useful to the intended audience. Without it, the phone number lacks context and may prove ineffective for individuals located elsewhere. A person residing in Johnstown, PA benefits directly from this local-targeted data, allowing convenient contact for immediate healthcare needs.
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Specialized Care Connection
A physician’s name (“Dr. Trale”), when coupled with location and contact information, enables patients seeking specialized medical care to connect with the appropriate professional. Patients requiring a particular expertise or treatment can use this data to locate and contact the relevant specialist. The specificity of this connection is crucial for ensuring that patients receive the proper level of care from qualified medical practitioners. For example, a patient in Johnstown needing a cardiologist would seek out such information specifically.
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Information Equity and Accessibility
The availability of accurate and readily accessible physician contact information promotes equity in healthcare access. It empowers individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status or technological literacy, to locate and connect with medical professionals. This is particularly important for vulnerable populations who may face barriers to accessing healthcare through other means. Clear and accessible data bridges gaps and ensures fair access for all seeking care.
The confluence of direct communication enablement, geographic proximity facilitation, specialized care connection, and information equity underscores the fundamental role that data like “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” plays in shaping healthcare access. The accuracy, accessibility, and reliability of this information are critical for ensuring that individuals can effectively navigate the healthcare system and receive the care they need.
8. Communication channel
The concept of a “communication channel” is intrinsically linked to the utility of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number.” It defines the specific medium through which a potential patient attempts to interact with the medical professional, significantly impacting the efficiency and effectiveness of that interaction. The phone number itself represents a designated channel, yet its value is contingent upon the functionalities and protocols associated with that channel.
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Voice Call Accessibility
The voice call, as the traditional and primary channel associated with a phone number, hinges on several factors for effectiveness. These include call clarity, prompt answering, and the availability of trained staff capable of addressing patient inquiries. A voice call system plagued by static, long hold times, or unhelpful personnel diminishes the accessibility of the physician, negating the benefit of having the phone number. For instance, a practice employing a dedicated phone line with a receptionist trained to schedule appointments offers superior voice call accessibility compared to a system with a shared line and untrained staff.
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Voicemail Functionality
Voicemail serves as an alternative communication channel, particularly during non-business hours or when phone lines are busy. Its effectiveness relies on clear and concise messaging, regular monitoring, and prompt call-back protocols. A poorly managed voicemail system, lacking essential information or resulting in delayed responses, undermines the value of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number.” Conversely, a voicemail system that provides alternative contact options, such as an emergency line or online portal, enhances accessibility. A professional message including specific instructions elevates the value of this functionality.
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Text Messaging (SMS) Integration
The integration of text messaging (SMS) provides an additional communication channel for appointment reminders, prescription refills, or brief inquiries. This channel offers convenience and efficiency, particularly for patients preferring asynchronous communication. However, SMS integration necessitates adherence to privacy regulations and requires a system for managing text message responses. A practice implementing a secure and HIPAA-compliant SMS platform enhances patient communication and access. Usage of SMS texting with an automated response offers convenience.
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Fax Transmission (Historical Context)
While less prevalent in contemporary communication, fax transmission retains relevance for certain medical documents and referrals. A functioning fax line remains essential for transmitting sensitive information that may not be suitable for email or other electronic channels. The accessibility of a reliable fax machine ensures the continued exchange of vital medical documents. An updated line provides a reliable path.
These varying communication channels, linked to “dr trale johnstown pa phone number,” collectively define the accessibility of the physician and the overall quality of patient interaction. The effectiveness of each channel depends on its proper implementation, adherence to privacy protocols, and responsiveness to patient needs. Therefore, a comprehensive strategy encompassing multiple communication channels optimizes the utility of “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” and enhances healthcare access.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following addresses common inquiries regarding accessing the contact information for Dr. Trale’s practice in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. These answers aim to provide clarity on locating and verifying relevant details.
Question 1: Why is it difficult to find Dr. Trale’s phone number readily available online?
Physician contact information may be intentionally limited to prevent unsolicited communications and protect the practice’s privacy. Additionally, healthcare providers sometimes restrict the distribution of their direct phone number to prioritize patient confidentiality and manage appointment scheduling effectively. Always verify the number with trusted sources.
Question 2: What are the most reliable methods for obtaining Dr. Trale’s contact information?
Official hospital directories (if Dr. Trale is affiliated with a hospital), the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine website, and direct referral from another physician represent the most reliable sources. Healthcare provider networks associated with insurance plans also often maintain updated directories. These sources are generally more accurate than general internet search results.
Question 3: How can the accuracy of the obtained phone number be verified?
Contacting the physician’s office directly through the listed number is the most definitive verification method. Confirmation of the practice’s address and the physician’s name can further validate the authenticity of the information. If there is no answer, checking with the hospital’s information service may be helpful if affiliated with one.
Question 4: What should be done if the phone number found online is no longer in service?
If the provided number is disconnected or leads to an incorrect destination, attempting to locate the practice through other means, such as searching for the physician’s name on the hospital’s website or contacting the local medical society, is recommended. Checking with the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine is also a valid measure.
Question 5: What are the legal considerations surrounding the sharing of physician contact information?
While physician contact information is generally considered public information, unauthorized distribution or misuse of this data may violate privacy laws and ethical guidelines. Care should be taken to respect physician privacy and refrain from using contact information for unsolicited commercial purposes. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) may apply in certain situations.
Question 6: Is it possible to schedule an appointment with Dr. Trale online, rather than by phone?
Whether online appointment scheduling is available depends on the practice’s policies and technological infrastructure. Some medical practices offer online portals for appointment booking, while others require phone communication. Checking the practice’s website or inquiring directly is necessary to determine availability.
These FAQs provide a starting point for accessing and verifying the contact information for Dr. Trale’s practice. Employing a combination of official sources and verification methods enhances the likelihood of obtaining accurate and reliable data.
The subsequent section will address related topics such as data privacy considerations and the importance of accurate physician directories.
Essential Tips for Utilizing “Dr. Trale Johnstown PA Phone Number”
The effective use of physician contact information necessitates a strategic and informed approach. These tips aim to provide clarity and guidance for optimizing healthcare access via “Dr. Trale Johnstown PA Phone Number”.
Tip 1: Prioritize Official Sources: Obtain the phone number from verified sources such as hospital directories, the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine, or insurance provider networks. These sources maintain more accurate and up-to-date information than general online search engines.
Tip 2: Verify Contact Details: Before attempting to schedule an appointment or seek medical advice, confirm the accuracy of the phone number by contacting the physician’s office directly. Request confirmation of the practice’s address and the physician’s name to validate the information’s authenticity.
Tip 3: Consider Multiple Communication Channels: If direct phone contact proves unsuccessful, explore alternative communication channels, such as online patient portals or secure messaging systems, if offered by the practice. Some practices utilize appointment scheduling via the Internet.
Tip 4: Be Mindful of Business Hours: Respect the physician’s office hours and refrain from contacting them outside of those times unless it is a genuine emergency. Understand that responses to inquiries may be delayed outside of regular business operations.
Tip 5: Document All Communications: Maintain a record of all phone calls, including the date, time, and the name of the individual spoken with. This documentation can be valuable for tracking appointment scheduling, prescription refills, or other medical inquiries.
Tip 6: Inquire About After-Hours Care: Determine the procedures for obtaining medical care outside of regular office hours. Clarify the availability of on-call physicians or alternative emergency care options.
Tip 7: Respect Patient Privacy: When leaving a voicemail message, avoid disclosing sensitive medical information. Provide only the necessary details to facilitate a prompt response and maintain confidentiality.
Effective implementation of these tips can significantly enhance a patient’s ability to access timely and appropriate medical care, optimizing the use of “Dr. Trale Johnstown PA Phone Number.” This promotes directness.
The subsequent section will provide a conclusion to this article, summarizing the key points and re-emphasizing the importance of reliable physician contact information.
dr trale johnstown pa phone number
The preceding exploration has underscored the multifaceted importance of accurate and accessible physician contact information. From facilitating direct communication and ensuring geographic relevance to safeguarding data privacy and promoting healthcare equity, the individual components encompassed within “dr trale johnstown pa phone number” play critical roles in shaping the patient experience and improving healthcare access. This examination has highlighted the necessity of relying on verified sources, adhering to ethical guidelines, and prioritizing data security to maintain the integrity of this essential information.
As technology continues to evolve and the healthcare landscape undergoes further transformation, the need for robust and reliable physician directories will only intensify. A continued commitment to data accuracy, accessibility, and privacy is paramount for ensuring that individuals can effectively navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and obtain the medical care they require. The value of verified information remains as a cornerstone of healthcare accessibility.
