15482, Star Junction, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15482, Star Junction, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.86 percent of the residents in 15482 has some form of health insurance. 54.89 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.93 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 15482 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 23 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15482. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 103 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 229 health care providers accessible to residents in 15482, Star Junction, Pennsylvania.

Analyzing the complex healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 15482, which encompasses the community of Star Junction, requires a multifaceted approach. Our "Asthma Score" analysis goes beyond simple metrics, considering factors impacting asthma management, primary care access, and overall patient well-being. This score, for illustrative purposes, will assess the availability and quality of care, highlighting strengths and weaknesses within the region. The score considers physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, all vital components of effective asthma management.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial starting point. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can hinder access to timely care. The ideal ratio varies, but a higher ratio generally translates to shorter wait times and more personalized attention. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in Star Junction requires data from sources like the US Census Bureau and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Publicly available data is often delayed, so a precise current figure is challenging to obtain. However, we can infer trends. If the area is rural, as many areas in Pennsylvania are, the ratio is likely lower than in more urban settings. This can place a strain on primary care physicians, especially those managing chronic conditions like asthma.

The characteristics of primary care practices in the area are equally important. Are the practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? These factors significantly impact access. Practices with a strong focus on preventative care, including regular asthma check-ups and patient education, will naturally score higher. Practices that are part of larger healthcare systems often have access to more resources and specialists, potentially improving patient outcomes. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a major positive indicator. These professionals provide specialized training on asthma management techniques, medication use, and environmental control strategies, which are essential for patients.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of our analysis. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve asthma management, especially in rural areas with limited access to specialists. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual visits and remote patient monitoring, will receive a higher score. The quality of telemedicine services is also considered. Does the practice offer secure video conferencing? Are patient records easily accessible? A well-integrated telemedicine system can greatly enhance patient convenience and improve adherence to treatment plans.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they are crucial. Asthma can be a stressful condition, and anxiety and depression can worsen symptoms. Practices that recognize the link between mental and physical health and offer integrated mental health services, either on-site or through referrals, receive a higher score. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. The availability of mental health resources is particularly important in rural areas, where access to mental health professionals can be limited. Practices that prioritize the mental well-being of their patients demonstrate a holistic approach to care.

Identifying standout practices within the Star Junction area requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. This involves reviewing patient reviews, assessing practice accreditations, and evaluating the qualifications of the physicians. Practices with a strong track record of patient satisfaction, a commitment to evidence-based medicine, and a focus on patient education will stand out. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a key indicator. EHRs facilitate better communication between healthcare providers, improve care coordination, and allow for more efficient management of patient data. Practices that have fully adopted EHRs are better equipped to provide comprehensive care.

Specific examples are difficult to provide without real-time, up-to-date data. However, let's consider a hypothetical scenario. Imagine "Star Junction Family Medicine" is a well-established practice. They accept new patients, offer extended hours, have a certified asthma educator on staff, and have recently implemented telemedicine for follow-up appointments. They also have a strong partnership with a local mental health clinic. This practice would likely receive a high "Asthma Score" due to its comprehensive approach to patient care. Conversely, a smaller practice with limited resources, no telemedicine, and no mental health support would likely receive a lower score.

The "Asthma Score" is a dynamic assessment, and the factors influencing it are constantly evolving. Healthcare regulations, technological advancements, and community needs all play a role. The score is not just a snapshot of the current situation; it is a tool for identifying areas for improvement. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape, communities can work to improve asthma management and overall patient outcomes. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that is accessible, patient-centered, and effective.

In conclusion, evaluating the "Asthma Score" for doctors in ZIP Code 15482 and primary care availability in Star Junction requires a detailed examination of physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The analysis helps identify standout practices and areas needing improvement.
To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Star Junction, including physician locations, practice locations, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.