15774, Shelocta, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15774, Shelocta, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.09 percent of the residents in 15774 has some form of health insurance. 32.16 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.93 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 15774 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 537 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15774. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 604 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 143 health care providers accessible to residents in 15774, Shelocta, Pennsylvania.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Shelocta, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15774), through the lens of asthma care and primary care access requires a nuanced approach. We will delve into the availability of physicians, assess the quality of care, and explore the integration of modern healthcare solutions like telemedicine and mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state of healthcare within this specific geographic area.

The concept of an “Asthma Score” is a helpful framework for evaluating the quality of asthma care. This score would ideally encompass several factors, including the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists per capita, the availability of asthma-specific education programs, the utilization of asthma action plans, and the integration of mental health services for patients managing this chronic condition. In the context of Shelocta, however, obtaining precise, publicly available data for a formal scoring system is challenging. Instead, we will provide a qualitative assessment based on available information and reasonable assumptions.

One critical aspect of healthcare access is the physician-to-patient ratio. In rural areas like Shelocta, this ratio is often less favorable compared to urban centers. The availability of primary care physicians is a cornerstone of asthma management. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients experiencing asthma symptoms and play a crucial role in diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. A limited number of PCPs can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to preventative care, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms and increasing the risk of complications. The presence of pulmonologists, specialists in lung diseases, is also vital for managing severe or complex asthma cases. Their availability, however, is often even more limited in rural settings.

Assessing the quality of care also involves examining the practices of individual medical providers. While a formal ranking is beyond the scope of this analysis, it is possible to identify certain practices that may stand out in terms of their approach to asthma management. These practices may emphasize patient education, provide asthma action plans, and actively monitor patients' symptoms and medication adherence. They might also have staff trained in asthma care, such as certified asthma educators. The availability of such resources can significantly improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor in evaluating healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. For asthma patients, telemedicine can be used for follow-up appointments, medication management, and even remote monitoring of symptoms. The extent to which healthcare providers in Shelocta have embraced telemedicine is a significant indicator of their commitment to providing accessible and convenient care.

Mental health resources are also an important consideration. Asthma is a chronic condition that can have a significant impact on mental well-being. Patients with asthma may experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, is therefore an important aspect of comprehensive asthma care. Integration of mental health services within primary care practices or through referrals to mental health specialists can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

In Shelocta, the availability of these services may be limited, and patients may need to travel to larger towns or cities to access specialized care. The integration of mental health services into asthma care is still an evolving area, and greater efforts are needed to ensure that patients have access to the support they need.

The overall assessment of asthma care in Shelocta, Pennsylvania, is complex. While specific data is not readily available for a precise "Asthma Score," the analysis reveals several key considerations. Physician-to-patient ratios, particularly the availability of PCPs and pulmonologists, likely pose a challenge. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources are critical areas for improvement. The presence of standout practices emphasizing patient education and proactive asthma management can positively impact patient outcomes.

Improving asthma care in Shelocta requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes increasing the number of healthcare providers, expanding the use of telemedicine, and ensuring that patients have access to mental health services. It also requires a commitment to patient education and the development of asthma action plans.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Shelocta and surrounding areas, including the locations of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and demographic data, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to identify areas with the greatest need and to develop targeted interventions to improve healthcare access and quality. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to uncover valuable insights and drive positive change in the Shelocta community.