15905, Johnstown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15905, Johnstown, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.02 percent of the residents in 15905 has some form of health insurance. 40.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.31 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 15905 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,856 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15905. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,601 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,993 health care providers accessible to residents in 15905, Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15905)

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within Johnstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15905), evaluating the availability and quality of primary care, with a specific focus on resources and services relevant to asthma management. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors that impact patient access to care and the potential for effective asthma control.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests upon accessible and responsive primary care. Within Johnstown, the physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend suggests a potential scarcity of primary care physicians compared to the population. This scarcity can translate into longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and a strain on existing resources. This situation is further complicated by the prevalence of chronic conditions like asthma, which require ongoing monitoring and management.

The availability of primary care in Johnstown is also influenced by geographic distribution. Access can vary significantly depending on the patient's location within the ZIP code. Individuals residing in more rural areas may face greater challenges in reaching a primary care provider, necessitating longer travel times and potentially limiting access to specialized asthma care. This geographical disparity highlights the need for a robust healthcare infrastructure that addresses the needs of all residents, regardless of their location.

Several primary care practices in Johnstown stand out in their approach to asthma management. These practices often prioritize patient education, providing comprehensive information about asthma triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique. They may also offer specialized asthma clinics or dedicated staff members trained in asthma care. These practices often integrate electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient progress, manage medication refills, and facilitate communication between patients and healthcare providers.

Telemedicine, the delivery of healthcare services via technology, presents a valuable opportunity to improve asthma care in Johnstown. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients in remote areas to access specialist consultations and follow-up appointments without the need for extensive travel. It also provides a convenient platform for medication management, symptom monitoring, and patient education. The adoption of telemedicine among primary care practices in Johnstown is an important factor in the overall "Asthma Score." Practices that embrace telemedicine technologies are better positioned to provide timely and accessible care, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like asthma.

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of asthma management, but it plays a crucial role in patient well-being and treatment adherence. Asthma can be a stressful condition, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Effective asthma care requires addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease. The availability of mental health resources within primary care practices or through referrals is a significant component of a positive "Asthma Score." Practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways for mental health support demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

The quality of asthma care is further influenced by the availability of specialized resources. This includes access to pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists. While primary care physicians are the first point of contact for asthma management, access to specialists is essential for patients with complex or uncontrolled asthma. The proximity of these specialists to primary care practices and the ease with which patients can be referred are critical factors in the overall "Asthma Score."

The implementation of asthma action plans is another key element of effective asthma management. These plans provide patients with personalized instructions on how to manage their asthma symptoms, including medication dosages, trigger avoidance strategies, and when to seek medical attention. Primary care practices that routinely provide and update asthma action plans demonstrate a commitment to patient empowerment and self-management.

Medication adherence is a common challenge for asthma patients. Factors such as cost, side effects, and complexity of medication regimens can impact a patient's ability to take their medications as prescribed. Primary care practices can play a crucial role in improving medication adherence by providing patient education, addressing medication concerns, and offering assistance with medication affordability.

The "Asthma Score" for Johnstown, PA (15905) is therefore a composite measure that reflects the interplay of these factors. While specific data points are constantly evolving, a preliminary assessment suggests a need for improvement in several areas. Addressing the physician-to-patient ratio, expanding telemedicine adoption, and strengthening mental health support are critical steps toward improving the overall quality of asthma care. Further, the integration of asthma action plans and strategies to improve medication adherence are essential components of a comprehensive asthma management strategy.

Overall, the "Asthma Score" for Johnstown, PA (15905) can be enhanced by a collective effort involving primary care practices, specialists, mental health providers, and community organizations. By working together, these stakeholders can create a healthcare ecosystem that prioritizes patient access, promotes effective asthma control, and improves the quality of life for individuals living with asthma in Johnstown.

For a dynamic visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Johnstown, including physician locations, access to specialists, and other relevant data, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer interactive insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, enabling a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the community.