15639, Hunker, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15639, Hunker, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.69 percent of the residents in 15639 has some form of health insurance. 34.27 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.11 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 15639 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 464 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15639. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 334 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,709 health care providers accessible to residents in 15639, Hunker, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15639 & Primary Care in Hunker

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and resources within ZIP code 15639, encompassing Hunker, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas. We will examine the landscape of primary care physicians (PCPs), their capacity to serve patients with asthma, and the adoption of innovative technologies and support systems. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Asthma Score' assessment, considering factors crucial for effective asthma care.

The foundation of asthma management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Hunker, the availability of PCPs is a critical factor. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires data from various sources, including insurance providers, hospital networks, and state licensing boards. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment for asthma. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater access to care, potentially improving asthma control and reducing the severity of exacerbations.

The quality of primary care extends beyond mere availability. We must assess the practices' capabilities to handle asthma cases. This includes the availability of spirometry (lung function testing), asthma action plans, and patient education materials. Ideally, PCPs should be well-versed in asthma guidelines and protocols, offering comprehensive care that addresses not only medication management but also environmental triggers and lifestyle modifications. Practices that integrate these elements into their standard of care would score higher on our Asthma Score.

Standout practices within the 15639 ZIP code are those that demonstrate a proactive approach to asthma management. This includes practices that actively monitor patient adherence to medication regimens, provide regular follow-up appointments, and collaborate with specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists. Practices that implement electronic health records (EHRs) and utilize them effectively for asthma management, such as tracking patient symptoms, medication use, and exacerbation frequency, would also earn a higher score. These practices are likely to achieve better patient outcomes and contribute to a healthier community.

Telemedicine is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, and its adoption can significantly impact asthma care. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication refills, and symptom monitoring, especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Practices that offer telemedicine options for asthma management, including virtual check-ins and educational sessions, would receive a higher score. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce the frequency of in-person visits, and facilitate timely interventions, ultimately leading to better asthma control.

Asthma often co-exists with other health conditions, including mental health issues. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a crucial component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that have integrated mental health services, either directly or through partnerships with mental health professionals, would score higher. This integrated approach addresses the holistic needs of patients, improving their overall well-being and asthma management outcomes.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and educational programs for asthma patients and their families is essential. These resources provide patients with the knowledge and support they need to manage their condition effectively. Practices that actively promote or facilitate access to these resources would be viewed favorably in our Asthma Score analysis. Community outreach programs and partnerships with local organizations can significantly improve patient outcomes and create a supportive environment for those living with asthma.

In conclusion, the 'Asthma Score' for doctors in ZIP code 15639, specifically considering primary care availability in Hunker, is a complex metric. It hinges on the physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Standout practices will be those that prioritize comprehensive care, embrace technology, and actively support their patients. The availability of support groups and educational programs also plays a significant role in determining the overall score.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in the 15639 ZIP code, including the locations of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to visualize healthcare resources, allowing you to assess accessibility and identify potential gaps in care.