15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.00 percent of the residents in 15083 has some form of health insurance. 44.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.54 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 15083 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 133 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15083. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 303 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,883 health care providers accessible to residents in 15083, Sutersville, Pennsylvania.

Asthma management in Sutersville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15083) requires a nuanced assessment, moving beyond simple rankings. A true ‘Asthma Score’ analysis necessitates evaluating the availability and quality of primary care physicians, their approaches to asthma treatment, and the support systems in place for patients. This analysis will consider these factors, focusing on the specific challenges and opportunities within this community.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in accessible primary care. Sutersville, like many rural communities, may face challenges in this area. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying necessary care and exacerbating asthma symptoms. Information on the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, along with the estimated population, is essential to calculate this ratio. This data would then be compared against regional and national averages to determine if Sutersville is underserved.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by primary care physicians is paramount. This includes their expertise in asthma management, their adherence to current treatment guidelines, and their willingness to collaborate with specialists. Examining patient satisfaction surveys, if available, could offer valuable insights into the perceived quality of care. Furthermore, an analysis of the practices’ approach to asthma education, including the provision of inhaler technique training and the development of personalized asthma action plans, would be critical.

Identifying standout practices is key. Some practices might excel in asthma management, possibly through specialized training, a dedicated asthma nurse, or a proactive approach to patient education. These practices would be highlighted for their best practices, serving as models for other providers in the area. Conversely, practices needing improvement would be identified, with recommendations for areas of focus.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care in Sutersville. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services among primary care physicians in the area, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual check-ups, medication refills), is crucial. The ease of use of the telemedicine platform, the cost to patients, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care plan would also be considered.

Asthma often coexists with other health conditions, including mental health issues. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact overall well-being. The availability of mental health resources within the community is therefore a vital component of the ‘Asthma Score’ analysis. This includes assessing the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, and their accessibility to patients. The availability of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices, allowing for a more holistic approach to patient care, would be particularly beneficial.

The assessment also must consider the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, in the surrounding areas. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to specialists is essential for patients with more severe or complex asthma. Travel time to specialists and the ease of referral from primary care physicians would be key factors.

Medication access is another crucial element. Ensuring patients can afford and obtain their prescribed asthma medications is essential for effective management. This involves evaluating the availability of local pharmacies, the affordability of medications, and the assistance programs available to help patients cover the cost of their prescriptions.

The analysis would also consider the community's awareness of asthma triggers, such as allergens, air pollution, and tobacco smoke. Public health initiatives aimed at educating the community about asthma triggers and promoting healthy environments can significantly improve asthma outcomes. Examining the presence of such initiatives and their effectiveness would be part of the overall assessment.

A comprehensive ‘Asthma Score’ analysis for Sutersville would also consider the availability of support groups and educational resources for asthma patients and their families. These resources can provide valuable information, emotional support, and practical strategies for managing asthma.

Ultimately, the ‘Asthma Score’ is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the ongoing efforts to improve asthma care within the community. The analysis would identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, providing valuable information to healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members. The goal is to create a more supportive and effective environment for individuals living with asthma in Sutersville.

To truly visualize and understand the complex interplay of factors impacting asthma care in Sutersville, consider exploring the power of spatial data. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive view of physician locations, patient demographics, and environmental factors, allowing you to identify patterns and insights that are invisible in traditional data formats.