15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.61 percent of the residents in 15357 has some form of health insurance. 46.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.76 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 15357 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 182 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15357. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 473 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,023 health care providers accessible to residents in 15357, Rices Landing, Pennsylvania.

Analyzing asthma care accessibility and quality within the 15357 ZIP code, encompassing Rices Landing, Pennsylvania, necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the specialized resources for asthma management, the integration of telehealth, and the support systems available for mental health, all factors contributing to an "Asthma Score" for this specific region. Directly assigning a numerical score is complex without access to proprietary data, but this analysis will provide a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare landscape.

The cornerstone of asthma management is readily accessible primary care. In Rices Landing, assessing the physician-to-patient ratio is crucial. Publicly available data, such as the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can offer population demographics. Comparing this data to the number of practicing primary care physicians in the 15357 ZIP code provides an initial estimate of access. A higher physician-to-patient ratio suggests potential challenges in securing timely appointments and ongoing care. Further investigation should determine the types of primary care practices present, including solo practitioners, group practices, and those affiliated with larger healthcare systems.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices matter. Practices offering extended hours, weekend appointments, and same-day availability significantly improve access for asthma sufferers. These practices, often employing nurse practitioners and physician assistants, can alleviate the burden on physicians and provide more comprehensive care. Furthermore, the presence of certified asthma educators within the primary care setting is a significant advantage. These educators provide crucial patient education on medication adherence, trigger avoidance, and proper inhaler technique, all critical for managing asthma effectively.

Specialized asthma care, including pulmonologists and allergists, is another vital component. While primary care physicians manage the majority of asthma cases, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma require specialist expertise. The proximity of pulmonologists and allergists to Rices Landing is a critical factor. Travel time and accessibility to these specialists influence the Asthma Score. A longer travel distance can lead to delayed diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms and increasing the risk of hospitalizations.

Telemedicine adoption has revolutionized healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. The availability of telehealth consultations for asthma management can significantly improve the Asthma Score. Telehealth allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, facilitating medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and educational sessions. Practices that have fully embraced telehealth, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices, and secure messaging platforms, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. This is especially important for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they are critical. Asthma, a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can worsen asthma symptoms and reduce adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within the 15357 ZIP code is a crucial factor. Integrated mental health services within primary care practices or readily accessible referrals to mental health professionals enhance the Asthma Score. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers ensures a holistic approach to patient care.

Identifying "standout practices" within the 15357 ZIP code requires a more in-depth analysis. This would involve gathering information on patient satisfaction, asthma control rates, and adherence to national guidelines. Publicly available resources, such as patient reviews and practice websites, can provide initial insights. However, a comprehensive evaluation would require access to patient data, which is often protected by privacy regulations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive management, and a patient-centered approach would likely receive higher marks.

The overall Asthma Score for Rices Landing and the surrounding 15357 ZIP code is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of primary care practices, the availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to the final assessment. While a specific numerical score cannot be assigned without detailed data, this analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The analysis underscores the importance of data visualization in understanding healthcare access. The ability to map physician locations, practice characteristics, and patient demographics can provide valuable insights. CartoChrome maps offer powerful tools for visualizing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of resources and identifying areas with unmet needs.

To gain a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape in Rices Landing and the 15357 ZIP code, and to visualize the data discussed, consider exploring the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. Their platform can provide a visual representation of the data, making it easier to identify areas of strength and weakness in asthma care accessibility.