The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15021, Burgettstown, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 95.26 percent of the residents in 15021 has some form of health insurance. 42.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.68 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 15021 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,213 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15021. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,418 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,156 health care providers accessible to residents in 15021, Burgettstown, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 15021, Burgettstown, Pennsylvania
Asthma Score | 44 |
---|---|
People Score | 39 |
Provider Score | 67 |
Hospital Score | 17 |
Travel Score | 61 |
15021 | Burgettstown | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Asthma Score Analysis: Burgettstown, PA (ZIP Code 15021)
Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality for asthma sufferers in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15021) requires a multi-faceted approach. We'll delve into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), assess physician-to-patient ratios, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and explore the presence of mental health resources – all crucial components in determining an "Asthma Score" that reflects the overall support system for managing this chronic respiratory condition.
Burgettstown, a small borough in Washington County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its rural setting often translates to a lower density of healthcare providers compared to more urban areas. This geographical reality immediately impacts the Asthma Score, as access to timely and consistent medical care is paramount for effective asthma management.
**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**
The cornerstone of asthma care is a strong relationship with a primary care physician. PCPs are typically the first point of contact for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. Assessing the availability of PCPs in Burgettstown and the surrounding areas is therefore critical. This involves researching the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate vicinity, including family medicine doctors, internists, and pediatricians.
The physician-to-patient ratio provides a crucial metric. A higher ratio (fewer patients per physician) generally indicates better access to care, allowing for more frequent appointments, shorter wait times, and more personalized attention. Conversely, a lower ratio can strain the healthcare system, potentially leading to delayed care, increased emergency room visits, and poorer asthma control. Researching the patient panel sizes of local practices is essential to accurately determine this ratio. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), can provide valuable insights, though local surveys and direct contact with practices are often necessary for the most precise figures.
**Standout Practices:**
Identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in asthma care is a key component of the Asthma Score. This involves investigating several factors. Firstly, we need to determine if any local practices specialize in pulmonology or have physicians with specific expertise in asthma management. Secondly, the availability of specialized equipment, such as spirometry machines for lung function testing, is crucial. Thirdly, we need to consider the practice's commitment to patient education. Do they provide asthma action plans, teach proper inhaler techniques, and offer resources on environmental control measures? Finally, the practice's use of electronic health records (EHRs) is important. EHRs facilitate better communication between providers, improve medication management, and allow for more efficient tracking of patient progress. Practices that excel in these areas would receive higher marks, positively influencing the overall Asthma Score.
**Telemedicine Adoption:**
Telemedicine offers a significant advantage in rural areas like Burgettstown, where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is therefore a critical factor in the Asthma Score. This includes assessing whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, and online access to patient portals. Telemedicine can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce the need for in-person visits, and allow for more frequent check-ins, especially during times of exacerbation. Practices embracing telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive asthma management, boosting their contribution to the Asthma Score.
**Mental Health Resources:**
Asthma is not solely a physical condition; it can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these can worsen asthma symptoms and overall quality of life. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial element of a comprehensive Asthma Score. This involves researching the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, within the community. It also includes assessing whether local practices offer integrated behavioral health services or have referral pathways to mental health providers. Practices that recognize the link between asthma and mental health and provide access to mental health support contribute significantly to a higher Asthma Score.
**Overall Asthma Score and Conclusion:**
Calculating a final Asthma Score for Burgettstown requires a comprehensive evaluation of all the factors discussed. Each element – PCP availability, physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources – must be weighed and assigned a score based on research findings. The overall score would reflect the community's capacity to provide effective, accessible, and holistic asthma care.
The analysis highlights the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While Burgettstown may face challenges related to provider density, the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services can significantly improve the Asthma Score. Further research, including surveys of local practices and interviews with patients, is essential to obtain a complete and accurate assessment.
To gain a deeper understanding of healthcare patterns and access in Burgettstown and surrounding areas, consider utilizing the power of spatial analysis. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the distribution of healthcare providers, identify areas with limited access, and highlight potential opportunities for improvement. Explore the possibilities and unlock valuable insights.
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