15235, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15235, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.95 percent of the residents in 15235 has some form of health insurance. 39.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.34 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 15235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,990 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 201 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15235. An estimate of 171 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,164 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 67,763 health care providers accessible to residents in 15235, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Pittsburgh Primary Care and ZIP Code 15235

This analysis evaluates primary care physician availability and related resources in Pittsburgh, with a specific focus on ZIP Code 15235, to assess its preparedness for managing asthma patients. The goal is to provide an “Asthma Score” reflecting the accessibility and quality of care available, encompassing physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support, all crucial elements in effective asthma management.

The foundation of a robust Asthma Score rests on the availability of primary care physicians. Pittsburgh, as a major metropolitan area, generally benefits from a higher concentration of medical professionals compared to rural settings. However, the distribution of these physicians is not uniform. ZIP Code 15235, encompassing the neighborhoods of Squirrel Hill and Greenfield, presents a unique demographic profile, including a significant elderly population and families with children, both groups potentially at higher risk for asthma. Therefore, the physician-to-patient ratio within this specific ZIP code is a critical indicator. Publicly available data, such as that from the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or the Pennsylvania Department of Health, should be consulted to determine this ratio. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, would negatively impact the Asthma Score, suggesting potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care.

Beyond simple physician numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly influence the Asthma Score. Practices that actively embrace evidence-based asthma management protocols, including regular spirometry testing, personalized asthma action plans, and patient education, contribute positively. Furthermore, the presence of specialized asthma clinics or dedicated respiratory therapists within a practice would elevate the score. Practices affiliated with larger hospital systems often have access to a wider range of specialists and resources, potentially improving the overall quality of care. Conversely, practices with limited resources, outdated equipment, or a lack of emphasis on asthma-specific care would detract from the score.

Telemedicine has become increasingly relevant in healthcare delivery, and its adoption plays a crucial role in the Asthma Score. Telemedicine offers numerous advantages for asthma patients, including remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and medication management. Practices that have integrated telemedicine platforms, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely, receive a higher score. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, those living in geographically isolated areas, or those needing frequent follow-up appointments. The ease of access and convenience offered by telemedicine contribute to improved patient adherence to treatment plans and better asthma control. Practices lagging in telemedicine adoption would receive a lower score, reflecting a potential barrier to accessible care.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, often exacerbating symptoms and hindering effective disease management. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referrals is a crucial component of the Asthma Score. Practices that have integrated mental health services, either through in-house therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, receive a higher score. This integration allows for a more holistic approach to patient care, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of asthma. Practices that lack these resources would receive a lower score, highlighting a potential gap in comprehensive asthma management.

Analyzing the specifics of ZIP Code 15235 requires examining individual practices within the area. Are there standout practices that demonstrate excellence in asthma management? This would involve reviewing online patient reviews, assessing practice accreditations, and potentially contacting practices directly to inquire about their asthma-specific protocols and resources. Practices with a strong track record of patient satisfaction, a commitment to evidence-based care, and a focus on patient education would positively influence the Asthma Score for the area.

Furthermore, the overall primary care landscape in Pittsburgh impacts the Asthma Score. The presence of large hospital systems, such as UPMC and Allegheny Health Network, with their extensive networks of specialists and resources, contributes to the overall score. These systems often have dedicated asthma clinics, research programs, and educational initiatives, benefiting patients throughout the city. The accessibility of these resources, even for patients outside of ZIP Code 15235, indirectly improves the Asthma Score by increasing the overall quality of care available in the region.

The Asthma Score is not a static number; it is a reflection of the dynamic healthcare environment. Regular updates and reassessments are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and evolving best practices in asthma management. Ongoing monitoring of physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption rates, and the integration of mental health resources is essential to maintaining a high Asthma Score and ensuring that asthma patients in Pittsburgh, particularly those in ZIP Code 15235, have access to the best possible care.

Finally, understanding the geographic distribution of these resources is crucial. Visualizing the data, such as physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, can provide valuable insights. CartoChrome maps can be used to create interactive visualizations that highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the primary care landscape in Pittsburgh, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of asthma care accessibility.