15139, Oakmont, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15139, Oakmont, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.44 percent of the residents in 15139 has some form of health insurance. 31.58 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.77 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 15139 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,280 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 294 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15139. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,435 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,517 health care providers accessible to residents in 15139, Oakmont, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Oakmont, PA (ZIP Code 15139)

Oakmont, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Allegheny River, presents a unique environment for analyzing asthma care. The presence of both suburban and semi-rural elements, coupled with potential environmental triggers, necessitates a thorough evaluation of healthcare resources. This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 15139 ZIP code, focusing on their capacity to manage asthma effectively. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of holistic asthma management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. In Oakmont, the ratio of PCPs to the overall population is a critical data point. A higher ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally suggests easier access to appointments and potentially more personalized care. Conversely, a lower ratio might indicate longer wait times and potentially less frequent check-ups, which can be detrimental to asthma control. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information from insurance providers, can help determine the current physician-to-patient ratio. This ratio, along with the age distribution of the population (asthma prevalence is higher in children and the elderly), significantly influences the overall Asthma Score.

Identifying standout practices within the 15139 ZIP code requires delving into their specific approaches to asthma management. This involves examining their adherence to national guidelines, such as those from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). Practices that consistently implement these guidelines, including comprehensive asthma action plans, regular spirometry testing, and patient education programs, would receive higher scores. Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as allergists or pulmonologists, within the practice or through readily accessible referrals, is another crucial factor. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and communication also contributes positively to the score.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in managing chronic conditions like asthma. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, can improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of symptoms and provide timely interventions. The Asthma Score will reflect the extent to which practices in Oakmont have embraced telemedicine, considering the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring devices) and the ease of access for patients. Practices that proactively utilize telemedicine to manage asthma will receive a higher score.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, while the chronic nature of the condition can contribute to mental health challenges. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is essential for comprehensive asthma management. The Asthma Score will evaluate the availability of mental health services, such as on-site therapists or readily accessible referrals to mental health professionals. Practices that screen for mental health conditions, provide counseling services, or collaborate with mental health specialists will receive a higher score. This holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

Furthermore, the geographic distribution of primary care practices within the 15139 ZIP code is important. Are practices clustered in one area, potentially limiting access for residents in other parts of Oakmont? The Asthma Score will consider the geographic accessibility of care, taking into account factors like public transportation options and the availability of parking. Practices located in areas easily accessible to a wide range of residents will receive a higher score.

The overall Asthma Score will be a composite of these factors, weighted according to their relative importance. For instance, physician-to-patient ratio and adherence to asthma guidelines might carry a higher weight than telemedicine adoption, although all factors contribute to the overall assessment. The score will provide a snapshot of the current state of asthma care in Oakmont, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. It will also identify areas where improvements can be made to enhance patient outcomes.

The final Asthma Score will be presented as a numerical value, along with a narrative summary that explains the rationale behind the score. This summary will provide specific examples of standout practices and areas where improvements are needed. The analysis will also identify any potential disparities in access to care based on socioeconomic factors or geographic location. The goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the quality and accessibility of asthma care in Oakmont.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score analysis for Oakmont, PA, will provide a valuable resource for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It will help identify areas of strength and weakness in the local healthcare system and inform efforts to improve asthma management. It will also serve as a benchmark for future evaluations and track progress over time.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of primary care practices, and to understand the demographic factors that influence asthma prevalence, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing you to gain deeper insights into the challenges and opportunities for improving asthma care in Oakmont.