15148, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15148, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.20 percent of the residents in 15148 has some form of health insurance. 61.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 49.36 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 15148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 627 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15148. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 372 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,489 health care providers accessible to residents in 15148, Wilmerding, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15148 and Primary Care in Wilmerding

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 15148, encompassing areas like North Versailles and surrounding communities, and the borough of Wilmerding, PA, to assess the availability and quality of primary care, a critical component of asthma management. We'll explore physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in constructing an 'Asthma Score' for these areas.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a foundational metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, inadequate management of chronic conditions like asthma. In ZIP code 15148, the ratio needs careful examination. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health should be consulted. These sources will reveal the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists practicing within the zip code, alongside the estimated population. A high ratio might indicate a shortage of physicians, potentially impacting the ability of asthma patients to receive timely and effective care.

Wilmerding, as a smaller community, presents a unique challenge. The availability of primary care, and consequently asthma specialists, might be limited. Residents may need to travel to neighboring communities like North Versailles or even Pittsburgh for specialized care. Assessing the accessibility of transportation and the presence of community health centers in Wilmerding is vital. These centers often provide crucial services to underserved populations, including asthma management programs.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves reviewing patient reviews, examining the practice's adherence to asthma guidelines (e.g., the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program guidelines), and evaluating the availability of asthma-specific services. Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and demonstrate a commitment to patient education would likely receive higher scores. Furthermore, practices with readily available appointment slots and minimal wait times would be advantageous.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in the 'Asthma Score' calculation. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for asthma management, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms, allowing for virtual consultations and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, would be viewed more favorably. This is especially pertinent for patients with mobility issues or those living in areas with limited access to healthcare facilities. The ease of use and accessibility of these platforms are key considerations.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as essential for comprehensive asthma care. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, would receive higher scores. This integration addresses the holistic needs of asthma patients, promoting better overall health outcomes. The availability of support groups and educational resources regarding the psychological aspects of asthma also contributes positively.

Specific practices in 15148 require individual scrutiny. Identifying practices with a strong focus on asthma management, including dedicated asthma educators, respiratory therapists, and comprehensive patient education materials, is essential. Similarly, in Wilmerding, assessing the primary care practices and their capacity to manage asthma effectively is paramount. This includes evaluating their ability to provide individualized asthma action plans, monitor patients' symptoms, and adjust medications as needed.

Analyzing the availability of specialized services is another key component. This involves evaluating the presence of pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists within a reasonable distance. The ease of access to these specialists is critical for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. Practices that have strong referral networks and collaborative relationships with specialists would be seen favorably.

The 'Asthma Score' for both 15148 and Wilmerding would be a composite score based on all these factors. It would reflect the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care in each area. The score would be a dynamic measure, subject to change based on evolving healthcare trends, practice improvements, and population needs.

To effectively visualize and understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and the impact of these factors on asthma management, a spatial analysis is crucial. CartoChrome maps provide the ideal platform for this. They allow for the overlay of data on physician locations, practice characteristics, and demographic information, creating a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare access and quality. They can also highlight areas with limited access to care, allowing for targeted interventions and resource allocation.

For a more in-depth and visually compelling analysis of asthma care in ZIP code 15148 and the surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. Their interactive visualizations will provide a clear understanding of the healthcare landscape and the factors influencing asthma management. Use CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper insight into the availability and quality of healthcare resources in your community.