15449, Keisterville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15449, Keisterville, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.30 percent of the residents in 15449 has some form of health insurance. 61.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.59 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 15449 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 20 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15449. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 131 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,130 health care providers accessible to residents in 15449, Keisterville, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Keisterville, PA (ZIP Code 15449)

Keisterville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15449), presents a unique challenge when assessing asthma care and primary care accessibility. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of care for asthma sufferers in this specific geographic area, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The aim is to provide a comprehensive “Asthma Score” analysis, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to inform both patients and healthcare providers.

The foundation of any asthma care assessment is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Keisterville, the PCP landscape dictates the initial access point for asthma diagnosis, management, and referral. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A high ratio, indicating a limited number of PCPs for the population size, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment initiation. Conversely, a low ratio suggests greater accessibility. Determining the exact ratio requires analyzing the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and comparing it to the estimated population. This data, coupled with information on appointment availability (e.g., same-day appointments, urgent care options), forms the initial base for evaluating accessibility.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is essential. This includes the experience of the PCPs in treating asthma, their familiarity with current guidelines, and their ability to effectively communicate with patients about their condition. Assessing this requires examining the practices of individual physicians. Are they actively involved in continuing medical education related to asthma management? Do they have established protocols for asthma care, including regular assessments of asthma control, medication adjustments, and patient education? Reviewing patient testimonials and online reviews, while subjective, can provide insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Standout practices within Keisterville, if any, would significantly elevate the overall Asthma Score. These practices might be characterized by a multidisciplinary approach, involving collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases), and potentially, allergists. They might also offer specialized asthma clinics, providing comprehensive care under one roof. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in research or quality improvement initiatives related to asthma management would demonstrate a commitment to providing evidence-based care. Identifying these standout practices requires detailed research, including contacting local healthcare providers and reviewing publicly available information.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor. In a rural area like Keisterville, telemedicine offers a potential solution to geographical barriers to care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. The extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs and specialists in Keisterville needs to be assessed. Do they offer virtual consultations for follow-up appointments or medication refills? Are they equipped to monitor patients' asthma control remotely using tools like peak flow meters or symptom trackers? The availability and ease of use of telemedicine services directly impact the Asthma Score, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked in asthma care, but it is critically important. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Ideally, primary care practices in Keisterville should have established connections with mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists. This could involve on-site mental health services, referrals to local mental health providers, or the use of telehealth platforms for mental health consultations. The availability of these resources directly influences the comprehensive nature of asthma care and therefore contributes to the overall Asthma Score.

Analyzing the specific practices and their approaches to patient education is also vital. Effective asthma management relies heavily on patient understanding of their condition, triggers, and medications. Practices that provide comprehensive patient education, including written materials, one-on-one counseling, and group classes, are likely to achieve better outcomes. Assessing the availability and quality of patient education materials and programs is an important part of the analysis.

The Asthma Score is not a static number; it is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. It is influenced by factors such as changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolving understanding of asthma management. The score should be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect these changes.

In conclusion, assessing the Asthma Score for Keisterville (ZIP Code 15449) involves a multifaceted analysis. It necessitates a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, the identification of standout practices, the assessment of telemedicine adoption, and the evaluation of mental health resource integration. A comprehensive assessment would also include the availability of patient education programs and the overall patient experience. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in Keisterville, ultimately aiming to improve access to and the quality of care for asthma sufferers.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Keisterville, including physician locations, practice types, and resource availability, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. Their interactive mapping tools can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and help you make informed decisions about your asthma care.