15437, Farmington, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15437, Farmington, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.59 percent of the residents in 15437 has some form of health insurance. 40.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.67 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 15437 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 624 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15437. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 268 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,853 health care providers accessible to residents in 15437, Farmington, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Farmington, PA (ZIP Code 15437)

Farmington, Pennsylvania, nestled in Fayette County, presents a unique landscape for assessing asthma care. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care, specifically focusing on asthma management within the 15437 ZIP code. We will consider factors impacting asthma care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources, to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" analysis.

Evaluating the accessibility of primary care physicians is paramount. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate potential challenges in securing timely appointments and consistent care, crucial for asthma management. The density of primary care physicians in Farmington, when compared to the overall population, is a critical data point. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insights into the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code. Analyzing this data, alongside the population demographics of Farmington, allows for a preliminary assessment of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, might suggest potential barriers to care, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is essential. Identifying "standout practices" involves considering factors like patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., National Committee for Quality Assurance - NCQA), and the presence of specialized asthma management programs. Practices that actively engage in patient education, provide individualized asthma action plans, and demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based treatment protocols would receive higher marks in this analysis. Examining the availability of on-site respiratory therapists or asthma educators would also contribute positively to the score. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) facilitates better communication and coordination of care, potentially leading to improved asthma control.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Farmington can significantly impact asthma care accessibility. Telehealth visits can offer convenience, especially for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments. Assessing the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities (e.g., peak flow meter readings), and the use of secure messaging platforms can reveal the extent of telemedicine integration. Practices embracing telemedicine can potentially improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the frequency of emergency room visits related to asthma exacerbations.

The often-overlooked connection between mental health and asthma management warrants consideration. Asthma can be a significant source of stress and anxiety, potentially exacerbating symptoms and impacting overall quality of life. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists, within the community is therefore a crucial component of the asthma score. Practices that actively screen for mental health concerns and offer referrals to mental health professionals demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Examining the presence of integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices or the availability of readily accessible mental health support in the community contributes significantly to the overall score.

Specific practices within the 15437 ZIP code would need individual assessment. For example, a practice with a well-established asthma management program, including certified asthma educators and readily available educational materials, would likely score higher. Conversely, a practice with limited access to specialists or a lack of telemedicine capabilities might receive a lower score. The analysis would need to consider the availability of after-hours care, a critical factor for managing asthma exacerbations that can occur outside of regular office hours.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Farmington, PA (15437) would be a composite metric, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. The weight assigned to each factor would depend on its perceived importance in asthma management. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and the availability of specialized asthma care might carry a higher weight than the availability of virtual consultations. The final score would provide a snapshot of the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care in the area, highlighting areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed.

This analysis is a starting point for understanding asthma care in Farmington. A more in-depth assessment would require access to detailed data from individual practices, patient surveys, and community health reports. However, even this preliminary analysis can identify potential areas of concern and opportunities for improvement. It underscores the importance of assessing not just the availability of physicians, but also the quality of care, the integration of technology, and the availability of supportive services.

The ultimate goal is to improve the lives of individuals living with asthma. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the healthcare landscape in Farmington, PA, and identifying opportunities to enhance asthma management. By focusing on key factors like physician access, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, we can work towards creating a healthier community for all.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Farmington, PA, and gain a deeper understanding of access to care, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. Their platform allows for the visualization of healthcare data, including physician locations, hospital locations, and other relevant information, providing a valuable tool for both healthcare professionals and patients.