15461, Masontown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15461, Masontown, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.48 percent of the residents in 15461 has some form of health insurance. 45.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.28 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 15461 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 862 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15461. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 687 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 535 health care providers accessible to residents in 15461, Masontown, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of asthma care and primary care availability in Masontown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15461) requires a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape. Assessing an “Asthma Score” necessitates considering several factors, from the number of physicians specializing in respiratory care to the accessibility of mental health services, given the well-established link between asthma exacerbations and psychological distress. The following evaluation attempts to provide a comprehensive overview, focusing on the key elements affecting patient outcomes.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of access. While pinpointing the exact physician-to-patient ratio within a specific ZIP code can be challenging due to data limitations, we can extrapolate based on regional and county-level information. Fayette County, where Masontown is located, often faces challenges in physician recruitment and retention, particularly in primary care. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, which is vital for managing chronic conditions like asthma. A low physician-to-patient ratio would inherently depress the “Asthma Score,” as it suggests potential difficulties in receiving timely and consistent care.

Primary care availability is intrinsically linked to asthma management. Primary care physicians (PCPs) serve as the first point of contact for patients, providing initial diagnoses, medication management, and referrals to specialists when necessary. The availability of PCPs in Masontown is a critical determinant of the overall “Asthma Score.” A robust primary care network, with readily accessible PCPs, would significantly improve the score. Conversely, a shortage of PCPs would indicate a weaker support system for asthma patients, potentially leading to increased hospitalizations and emergency room visits.

Identifying standout practices within the 15461 ZIP code requires a deeper dive into individual clinic profiles. Factors to consider include the availability of board-certified pulmonologists or allergists, the implementation of asthma action plans, and the utilization of evidence-based treatment guidelines. Practices that actively engage in patient education, offer convenient appointment scheduling, and demonstrate a commitment to continuous quality improvement would naturally receive higher ratings. Investigating patient satisfaction scores and reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to revolutionize healthcare access, particularly in rural areas like Masontown. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialized care. Practices that embrace telemedicine for asthma management, including virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function, would contribute positively to the “Asthma Score.” The ability to connect with specialists remotely can be particularly beneficial for patients in areas with limited access to specialists.

Mental health resources are an essential component of asthma care. Studies have shown a strong correlation between asthma exacerbations and psychological distress, such as anxiety and depression. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a critical factor in managing asthma effectively. Practices that integrate mental health screening and treatment into their asthma care programs would significantly improve the “Asthma Score.” This could involve offering on-site counseling services, partnering with mental health providers, or providing referrals to mental health specialists.

The overall “Asthma Score” for doctors in ZIP Code 15461 would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare infrastructure, with readily accessible primary care, specialized respiratory care, telemedicine options, and integrated mental health services. Conversely, a low score would reflect challenges in accessing care, potentially leading to poorer asthma control and increased healthcare costs. The score is not a static number but a dynamic reflection of the local healthcare ecosystem.

The specific practices within Masontown would need individual evaluation. For example, a practice with a board-certified pulmonologist, a well-developed telemedicine program, and integrated mental health services would likely receive a higher rating. Conversely, a practice with limited access to specialists, no telemedicine options, and no mental health support would likely receive a lower rating. The availability of resources and the proactive approach of individual practices are crucial.

The geographical isolation of Masontown poses unique challenges. Rural communities often face barriers to healthcare access, including limited transportation options, a shortage of healthcare professionals, and a lack of broadband internet access. These factors can negatively impact the “Asthma Score.” Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, including efforts to recruit and retain healthcare professionals, expand telemedicine infrastructure, and improve transportation options.

The quality of asthma education is another critical element. Practices that provide comprehensive asthma education, including training on inhaler techniques, asthma action plans, and trigger avoidance, would contribute positively to the “Asthma Score.” Patient empowerment through education is essential for effective asthma management. Practices that actively involve patients in their care decisions and provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to manage their condition would be highly rated.

The role of community health initiatives should not be overlooked. Public health programs that focus on asthma prevention and management, such as school-based asthma programs and community outreach efforts, can significantly improve asthma outcomes. Collaboration between healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations is essential for creating a supportive environment for asthma patients. The presence of such initiatives would boost the “Asthma Score.”

The overall “Asthma Score” is a complex assessment that demands a holistic view of the healthcare landscape in Masontown. It is not just about the availability of physicians but also about the quality of care provided, the accessibility of services, and the integration of mental health resources.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, identify potential gaps in care, and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Masontown and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to analyze physician locations, primary care availability, and other relevant factors.