06791, Harwinton, Connecticut Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 06791, Harwinton, Connecticut is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.54 percent of the residents in 06791 has some form of health insurance. 31.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.31 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 06791 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,245 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 06791. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,217 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 624 health care providers accessible to residents in 06791, Harwinton, Connecticut.

The evaluation of asthma care within ZIP code 06791, encompassing the town of Thomaston, Connecticut, requires a multifaceted approach, considering both the availability of primary care physicians and the quality of asthma management offered. While a formal "Asthma Score" doesn't exist as a standardized metric, we can analyze key indicators to understand the current landscape and identify areas for improvement. This analysis will also extend to primary care availability in the neighboring town of Harwinton, Connecticut, as residents often seek care across town lines.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. Data from the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) are essential. The national average for primary care physicians is approximately 1:1300, but this can vary significantly based on geographic location and socioeconomic factors. A lower ratio generally indicates better access to care. ZIP code 06791 and the surrounding areas, including Harwinton, should be assessed for physician density, factoring in the number of practicing primary care physicians (PCPs) and the population they serve. This data would reveal whether there are shortages or adequate staffing to meet the community's healthcare needs.

Primary care availability in Harwinton, a town with a smaller population than Thomaston, necessitates a similar investigation. Are there enough PCPs to serve the residents of Harwinton? Do residents frequently travel to neighboring towns like Thomaston for their primary care needs? Examining the distribution of PCPs across both towns is crucial. This includes determining the types of practices – solo, group, or hospital-affiliated – and their acceptance of various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, which can influence access for specific patient populations.

Standout practices are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma management. This includes practices that adhere to the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines, which emphasize patient education, environmental control, medication management, and regular follow-up. Identifying practices that offer specialized asthma clinics, respiratory therapists, or certified asthma educators would be beneficial. These practices often provide more tailored care and support for patients with asthma. Examining patient reviews, if available, can also provide insights into the quality of care and patient satisfaction.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor in assessing asthma care. The ability to offer virtual consultations, especially for routine follow-ups and medication adjustments, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, including virtual visits, remote monitoring of peak flow meters, and online patient portals, should be recognized. These practices are often better equipped to manage asthma effectively and improve patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as integral to asthma management. Asthma can be a chronic condition that significantly impacts quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, such as offering on-site therapists or partnering with mental health providers, are better positioned to provide holistic care. This includes screening for mental health issues, providing appropriate referrals, and coordinating care between primary care physicians and mental health specialists.

The analysis of asthma care in 06791 and primary care availability in Harwinton should also consider the availability of emergency services. Proximity to hospitals with specialized respiratory care units and the responsiveness of emergency medical services (EMS) are critical factors in managing asthma exacerbations. The time it takes to reach a hospital and the quality of care provided in the emergency room can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Furthermore, community resources play a role. Are there support groups for asthma patients in the area? Are there educational programs offered by local health organizations? Access to these resources can empower patients to manage their condition effectively and improve their overall well-being. The presence of pharmacies with knowledgeable pharmacists who can provide medication counseling is also important.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of asthma care in 06791 and primary care availability in Harwinton requires a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of emergency services and community support. This multifaceted approach provides a more accurate picture of the current landscape and highlights areas for improvement.
For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 06791 and Harwinton, including physician locations, access to care, and other relevant data, explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps.