15522, Bedford, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15522, Bedford, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.39 percent of the residents in 15522 has some form of health insurance. 41.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.00 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 15522 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,873 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15522. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,820 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 489 health care providers accessible to residents in 15522, Bedford, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Bedford, PA (ZIP Code 15522) and Primary Care

Bedford, Pennsylvania, a charming borough nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, specifically concerning asthma management within the 15522 ZIP code, requires a nuanced understanding of local resources and challenges. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors beyond simple physician counts, to offer a comprehensive picture of the healthcare environment for asthma patients.

The foundation of any asthma score lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. While a definitive, real-time ratio requires access to confidential patient data, publicly available information, such as the US Census Bureau data for Bedford County and physician directories, can offer estimations. Bedford County's population, combined with the number of actively practicing PCPs within the 15522 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas, provides a baseline. A lower ratio, indicating more physicians per capita, generally translates to better access. However, this raw number doesn’t tell the whole story.

Beyond the raw physician count, the distribution of PCPs within the community is vital. Are the physicians concentrated in one area, potentially creating access challenges for residents in more remote parts of the ZIP code? Transportation, a significant factor in rural communities, must be considered. Limited public transportation options can exacerbate access issues for those without personal vehicles. The availability of patient transportation services, such as those offered by the county or local non-profits, can significantly improve the asthma score by mitigating this barrier.

The quality of care provided by PCPs is another critical element. This includes their experience in managing asthma, their adherence to national guidelines (such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program), and their ability to provide comprehensive asthma action plans. Information on physician qualifications and specializations can often be found through online physician directories and healthcare system websites. Assessing a physician's experience in asthma management can be partially gleaned from their board certifications, the presence of asthma-specific training, and their practice's affiliation with larger healthcare networks or hospitals.

Standout practices often demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and proactive asthma management. These practices might employ certified asthma educators (CAEs), offer extended office hours, or provide educational materials in multiple languages to cater to a diverse patient population. They may also utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient progress, monitor medication adherence, and facilitate communication between the patient and the care team. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, aimed at improving asthma control, would also receive a higher score.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas like Bedford. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, and online patient portals would contribute positively to the asthma score. The availability of reliable internet access within the 15522 ZIP code is a critical factor influencing the effectiveness of telemedicine.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can trigger anxiety and depression, and these conditions can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a crucial component of a comprehensive asthma score. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists would contribute significantly to a higher score. The presence of mental health support groups and educational programs within the community also enhances the overall score.

Medication access and affordability are also key considerations. The availability of affordable asthma medications, including both rescue inhalers and long-term control medications, is crucial for effective asthma management. The presence of local pharmacies, including those offering discount programs or assistance with medication costs, is important. Practices that actively assist patients in navigating prescription assistance programs and advocating for affordable medication options would contribute to a better asthma score.

Community resources play a vital role. The presence of local support groups, asthma education programs, and community health initiatives can significantly improve the asthma score. These resources provide patients with valuable information, peer support, and access to additional healthcare services. Collaboration between PCPs and community organizations can create a more integrated and supportive healthcare environment.

The "Asthma Score" for 15522 would be derived from a weighted average of these factors. Each element, such as physician-to-patient ratio, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and medication access, would be assigned a specific weight based on its relative importance. The final score would then reflect the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care within the ZIP code.

While a definitive, numerical "Asthma Score" requires detailed data collection and analysis, the assessment process highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Bedford, PA. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors that contribute to effective asthma management and identifies areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and access points within Bedford, PA, we encourage you to explore the power of mapping. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the spatial aspects of healthcare access, allowing you to visualize physician locations, transportation routes, and community resources. Visit CartoChrome to explore these interactive maps and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Bedford, PA.