15775, Spangler, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15775, Spangler, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15775 has some form of health insurance. 45.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.41 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 15775 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 26 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15775. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 111 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 40 health care providers accessible to residents in 15775, Spangler, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 15775 & Primary Care in Spangler

Analyzing the availability of quality asthma care within ZIP code 15775 and specifically in the Spangler area necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must consider physician availability, the quality of existing practices, the integration of technology, and the provision of mental health support, all of which contribute to an overall "Asthma Score." This score, while not a formal, quantifiable metric, represents a qualitative assessment of the resources available to asthma patients.

The cornerstone of asthma management is access to qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio in Spangler is crucial. A high ratio, meaning fewer physicians for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially compromised care. Conversely, a favorable ratio allows for more personalized attention and proactive management of asthma. Publicly available data, such as those from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the U.S. Census Bureau, can provide estimates of the population and the number of practicing PCPs within the designated area. This data, combined with information about specialist availability (pulmonologists and allergists), forms the foundation of our assessment.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices is paramount. The "Asthma Score" considers factors such as the experience of the physicians, their adherence to current asthma treatment guidelines (e.g., those established by the National Institutes of Health), and the availability of on-site diagnostic tools like spirometry. Practices that actively engage in patient education, provide personalized asthma action plans, and offer regular follow-up appointments will receive higher marks. Patient reviews, accessible through online platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, can provide valuable insights into patient experiences, including communication styles, wait times, and overall satisfaction.

Identifying standout practices within the area is essential. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. They may employ certified asthma educators, offer specialized asthma clinics, or participate in quality improvement initiatives. They might also prioritize patient communication, utilizing electronic health records (EHRs) to facilitate seamless information sharing between physicians, patients, and other healthcare providers. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to asthma management, such as offering preventative care and actively monitoring patients' conditions, will contribute positively to the overall "Asthma Score."

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas like Spangler. Practices that offer telehealth options can provide more convenient access to routine check-ups, medication management, and asthma education. This is especially valuable for patients who may have difficulty traveling to appointments due to their asthma symptoms or geographical limitations. The "Asthma Score" will reflect the extent to which practices have embraced telemedicine and integrated it into their asthma care protocols.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and worsen overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the "Asthma Score." Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or that have established strong referral networks with mental health professionals, will be considered more favorably. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups specializing in managing the psychological impact of chronic respiratory illnesses.

The "Asthma Score" also takes into account the availability of resources for medication adherence. Asthma medications are most effective when taken as prescribed. Practices that provide support for medication adherence, such as medication reconciliation services, refill reminders, and financial assistance programs, will be viewed more positively. This may also involve educating patients on proper inhaler technique and providing resources for managing medication side effects.

Furthermore, the "Asthma Score" will consider the integration of community resources. Practices that collaborate with local pharmacies, schools, and community organizations to provide asthma education and support will receive higher marks. This includes participation in community health fairs, offering asthma education programs in schools, and providing resources for patients to access financial assistance for medications and other asthma-related expenses.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving landscape of asthma care. It is important to note that this analysis is based on publicly available information and subjective evaluations. The quality of care can vary significantly even within the same practice. A comprehensive assessment would require direct observation, patient interviews, and access to detailed practice data. However, this analysis provides a valuable framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in ZIP code 15775 and the Spangler area.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and the prevalence of asthma within the community, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can provide a visual representation of these factors, allowing for a more informed assessment of asthma care accessibility and the identification of potential areas for improvement.