15680, Salina, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15680, Salina, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.81 percent of the residents in 15680 has some form of health insurance. 44.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.37 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 15680 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 53 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15680. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 65 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,659 health care providers accessible to residents in 15680, Salina, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 15680 and Primary Care in Salina

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP code 15680, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care services, and offering insights into the broader healthcare ecosystem in Salina. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight exemplary practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, offering a nuanced understanding of the accessibility and efficacy of asthma management within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on readily accessible primary care. In ZIP code 15680, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. A high ratio, indicating a limited number of physicians relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised asthma control. Conversely, a favorable ratio, with ample primary care physicians, generally facilitates more timely interventions, proactive management strategies, and improved patient outcomes. This analysis would need to incorporate data on the population size of 15680 and the number of active primary care physicians practicing within the zip code. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or local health departments would be essential for this calculation.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. We must identify standout practices within 15680 that demonstrate excellence in asthma management. This requires examining several key indicators. Firstly, the implementation of standardized asthma action plans, tailored to individual patient needs, is crucial. These plans empower patients to recognize and manage their symptoms effectively. Secondly, the frequency of spirometry testing, a pulmonary function test used to diagnose and monitor asthma, should be assessed. Regular spirometry helps physicians track lung function and adjust treatment accordingly. Thirdly, the practices' utilization of inhaled corticosteroids and other controller medications, the cornerstone of asthma treatment, needs to be evaluated. Are patients receiving appropriate prescriptions and adhering to their medication regimens? This information is often gleaned from patient surveys, insurance claims data (with appropriate privacy protections), and direct observation.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative tool in healthcare, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Its adoption within 15680 is a significant factor in our "Asthma Score" assessment. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication refills, and symptom monitoring, improving access to care for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. We need to investigate the prevalence of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in 15680. Do physicians offer virtual appointments? Do they utilize remote monitoring devices to track patients' symptoms and medication adherence? The availability of telemedicine services directly impacts the accessibility and convenience of asthma care.

The interplay between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Patients with asthma are at higher risk for anxiety and depression, which can exacerbate their symptoms and hinder their ability to manage their condition effectively. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care is a critical component of a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment. We must determine whether primary care practices in 15680 offer on-site mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Are physicians trained to screen for mental health conditions? Are patients provided with resources to address their emotional well-being? The availability of mental health support is essential for holistic asthma care.

The broader context of primary care availability in Salina, beyond the specific confines of 15680, is also relevant. Salina's overall healthcare infrastructure, including the number of hospitals, urgent care clinics, and specialists, influences the accessibility of asthma care. If Salina has a robust healthcare network, patients in 15680 have more options for seeking care, particularly in emergencies. Conversely, a limited healthcare infrastructure could strain the available resources and potentially impact the quality of care. This requires a broader understanding of the healthcare landscape in Salina.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic factors of the population in 15680 play a significant role. Factors like income levels, insurance coverage, and access to transportation can affect a patient's ability to access and adhere to asthma treatment. Areas with higher rates of poverty or limited access to transportation may require additional resources and support to ensure equitable access to care. This could involve community health programs, patient education initiatives, and transportation assistance.

In assessing the "Asthma Score," we also consider the practices' responsiveness to patient feedback. Are practices actively soliciting patient feedback through surveys or other means? Are they using this feedback to improve their services and patient experience? Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of quality care. Practices that prioritize patient feedback are more likely to provide effective and patient-centered asthma management.

Finally, the "Asthma Score" should account for the practices' commitment to patient education. Do they provide patients with educational materials about asthma triggers, medication management, and self-care strategies? Do they offer asthma education classes or support groups? Patient education is essential for empowering individuals to take control of their asthma and improve their quality of life.

The "Asthma Score" for 15680 and Salina will be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable environment for asthma management, with a sufficient number of primary care physicians, exemplary practices, robust telemedicine adoption, integrated mental health resources, a supportive healthcare infrastructure, and a commitment to patient education and feedback. A low score would signal areas for improvement, such as a shortage of physicians, limited access to specialized care, or a lack of resources to address the social determinants of health.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and the factors influencing asthma care within 15680 and Salina, we recommend exploring interactive maps and data visualizations. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can help you visualize physician density, patient demographics, and other relevant data points, providing a comprehensive and insightful view of the healthcare landscape. **Visit CartoChrome to explore interactive maps and gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare environment in your area.**