15902, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15902, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.00 percent of the residents in 15902 has some form of health insurance. 57.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.69 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 15902 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,491 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15902. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,234 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,031 health care providers accessible to residents in 15902, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15902)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Johnstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15902) necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. This analysis, framed as an “Asthma Score,” will delve into primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, innovative practice models, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of the resources available to asthma sufferers in this specific geographic area.

Primary care access forms the bedrock of asthma management. Regular checkups, preventative care, and early intervention are crucial for controlling the condition and preventing exacerbations. Johnstown's primary care landscape, while offering some options, faces challenges common to many rural areas. The concentration of specialists often overshadows the importance of readily accessible general practitioners. While precise numbers fluctuate, the overall availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the 15902 ZIP code, and the surrounding areas, is a key factor. The ratio of PCPs to the general population must be assessed. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to timely care.

Physician-to-patient ratios, a critical metric, provide a clearer understanding of the workload carried by each physician. This analysis must consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the 15902 area and the estimated population they serve. The national average physician-to-patient ratio serves as a benchmark. A ratio significantly exceeding this average could indicate a strain on the existing healthcare infrastructure, potentially impacting the quality and timeliness of asthma care. This metric also needs to be evaluated in conjunction with specialist availability, as patients with uncontrolled asthma often require referral to pulmonologists or allergists.

Identifying standout practices within the 15902 ZIP code requires a closer look at their service offerings and patient outcomes. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management often incorporate several key elements. These include comprehensive patient education programs, regular asthma action plan reviews, and readily available appointments for acute exacerbations. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and implementing evidence-based practices, deserve recognition. Examining patient testimonials and online reviews can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has the potential to significantly improve asthma care, especially in areas with limited access to specialists. The adoption of telemedicine within Johnstown's healthcare system is a crucial aspect of this analysis. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient education materials are demonstrating a commitment to expanding access to care. Assessing the availability of telemedicine options, the types of services offered, and the patient's experience with these technologies is essential for understanding their impact on asthma management.

The often-overlooked connection between asthma and mental health warrants careful consideration. Asthma, a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and decrease adherence to treatment plans. The availability of mental health resources within the 15902 area is a critical factor. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who understand the complexities of chronic illness. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and referrals into their asthma care protocols demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. Assessing the accessibility of these resources, the collaboration between primary care providers and mental health professionals, and the availability of support groups are all important aspects of this analysis.

The overall “Asthma Score” for the 15902 ZIP code, based on the factors discussed, would reflect the collective strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system. This score, though not a precise numerical value in this analysis, would be a qualitative assessment of the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care. The score would be influenced by the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the presence of standout practices. Areas with a higher score would demonstrate a greater commitment to comprehensive asthma management, while areas with a lower score would highlight areas needing improvement.

Improving the “Asthma Score” for Johnstown requires a multi-pronged approach. Addressing the physician shortage, particularly in primary care, is paramount. Encouraging the adoption of telemedicine and expanding access to mental health resources are crucial steps. Supporting practices that prioritize patient education, quality improvement, and evidence-based care is also essential. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is critical for creating a supportive environment for asthma sufferers.

The analysis, while providing a general overview, could be significantly enhanced by incorporating geographic data. Mapping the location of primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and mental health resources within the 15902 ZIP code and surrounding areas can reveal patterns of access and identify areas of need. Visualizing this data allows for a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and helps inform targeted interventions.

To gain a deeper, more visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Johnstown, and to explore the spatial relationships between healthcare providers and the population, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data discussed, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis and a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing asthma sufferers in the 15902 ZIP code.