15359, Rogersville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15359, Rogersville, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.07 percent of the residents in 15359 has some form of health insurance. 19.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.85 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 15359 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 66 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15359. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 12 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 550 health care providers accessible to residents in 15359, Rogersville, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Rogersville, PA (ZIP Code 15359)

Analyzing asthma care within Rogersville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15359) requires a multi-faceted approach, evaluating physician availability, quality of care, and access to supporting resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering key factors impacting patient outcomes. Given the rural nature of the area, particular attention will be paid to accessibility and resource limitations.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Landscape:**

A crucial element is the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically for primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists. Accurate data on these specialists within the immediate ZIP code may be limited. However, the surrounding Greene County area likely experiences a lower-than-average physician density compared to urban centers. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation for asthma patients. The availability of pediatricians is also critical, as asthma frequently manifests in childhood. A shortage of pediatric specialists further compounds access challenges.

Primary care is the cornerstone of asthma management. PCPs are often the first point of contact, responsible for initial diagnosis, treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring. The strength of the primary care network in Rogersville, therefore, directly impacts asthma care quality. Examining the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the range of services offered (e.g., spirometry testing), and the availability of after-hours care are essential components of this assessment. The presence of a local hospital or clinic with respiratory specialists would significantly boost the "Asthma Score."

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several criteria. Practices demonstrating a commitment to asthma management might offer:

* **Dedicated asthma education programs:** These programs empower patients with self-management skills, including proper inhaler technique, trigger identification, and action plans for exacerbations.
* **Regular asthma control assessments:** Utilizing standardized questionnaires (e.g., Asthma Control Test) to track symptom severity and treatment effectiveness.
* **Collaboration with specialists:** Establishing clear referral pathways to pulmonologists and allergists when needed.
* **Adherence to national guidelines:** Following guidelines from organizations like the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) ensures evidence-based care.
* **Patient-centered approach:** Practices prioritizing patient communication, shared decision-making, and addressing individual needs.

The presence of electronic health records (EHRs) is another critical factor. EHRs facilitate efficient data management, medication tracking, and communication between providers. They also enable practices to participate in quality improvement initiatives and track patient outcomes more effectively. Without specific practice-level data, assessing these elements is challenging. However, a review of online patient reviews and practice websites can offer some insights into the quality of care provided.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Accessibility:**

Telemedicine holds significant potential for improving asthma care in rural areas like Rogersville. Telehealth consultations can reduce the need for travel, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments. Telemedicine can also provide access to specialists who might not be readily available locally.

The "Asthma Score" will reflect the extent of telemedicine adoption among local practices. Factors to consider include:

* **Availability of virtual consultations:** Are providers offering telehealth appointments?
* **Technology infrastructure:** Do patients have access to reliable internet and devices for virtual visits?
* **Reimbursement policies:** Are telemedicine services adequately reimbursed by insurance providers?
* **Patient education and support:** Are patients trained on how to use telemedicine platforms?

Successful telemedicine implementation requires addressing potential barriers, such as technological limitations and patient digital literacy.

**Mental Health Resources and Asthma:**

Asthma and mental health are often intertwined. Asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression, and these conditions can worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, access to mental health resources is an integral part of comprehensive asthma care.

The "Asthma Score" will assess the availability of:

* **Mental health professionals:** Are there psychiatrists, psychologists, or therapists practicing in or near Rogersville?
* **Integrated care models:** Do primary care practices collaborate with mental health providers?
* **Mental health support groups:** Are there local support groups for individuals with asthma and related mental health concerns?
* **Educational materials:** Are patients provided with resources on managing the psychological aspects of asthma?

The absence of adequate mental health support can negatively impact asthma control and overall quality of life.

**Overall Asthma Score and Conclusion:**

Without specific data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, it is difficult to assign a definitive "Asthma Score" to Rogersville, PA (15359). However, based on the general challenges of rural healthcare, it is reasonable to assume that the area faces some limitations in asthma care access and resources. The score would likely be lower than in more urban areas with greater physician density and more comprehensive support systems.

Improving asthma care in Rogersville requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes efforts to:

* **Increase physician recruitment and retention:** Attracting and retaining primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and pediatricians.
* **Expand telemedicine capabilities:** Supporting the adoption of telehealth by local practices.
* **Enhance mental health integration:** Promoting collaboration between primary care and mental health providers.
* **Improve patient education and self-management support:** Providing resources and programs to empower patients.

**Call to Action:**

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Rogersville and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome can provide valuable insights into physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and demographic data, enabling a more informed assessment of asthma care access and resource availability. Explore CartoChrome maps today to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in your community.