15927, Colver, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15927, Colver, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.80 percent of the residents in 15927 has some form of health insurance. 33.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.61 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 15927 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 94 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15927. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 108 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,034 health care providers accessible to residents in 15927, Colver, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Colver, PA (ZIP Code 15927)

Analyzing asthma care within the confines of ZIP code 15927, encompassing the town of Colver, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, their responsiveness to asthma management, the presence of innovative care models like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all contributing to an "Asthma Score" reflecting the overall quality of care accessible to residents. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in readily accessible primary care. Assessing the physician-to-patient ratio in Colver is crucial. Unfortunately, pinpointing exact figures for a specific ZIP code can be challenging due to data aggregation and privacy concerns. However, a reasonable estimate can be derived from county-level data (Cambria County) and regional averages. If the county exhibits a lower-than-average physician-to-population ratio, it immediately raises a red flag. A scarcity of primary care physicians translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for asthma sufferers. This, in turn, can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of exacerbations requiring emergency room visits.

Furthermore, the quality of primary care extends beyond mere availability. The responsiveness of local physicians to asthma management protocols is critical. This involves assessing their adherence to established guidelines for asthma diagnosis, treatment, and patient education. Do they routinely utilize spirometry to assess lung function? Are they proactive in prescribing and educating patients on the proper use of inhalers and other asthma medications? Do they develop personalized asthma action plans for their patients? The presence of these elements would significantly boost the "Asthma Score." Conversely, a lack of these practices would negatively impact the score, indicating potential gaps in care.

Identifying standout practices within Colver requires a deeper dive. This involves researching individual practices and their approaches to asthma management. Some practices might demonstrate a strong commitment to asthma care through specialized training for their staff, dedicated asthma education programs, or partnerships with respiratory therapists. These practices, exhibiting a proactive and patient-centered approach, would significantly contribute to a higher "Asthma Score." Publicly available patient reviews and testimonials, while not always definitive, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas like Colver. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, providing convenient access to consultations, follow-up appointments, and asthma education. The availability of telehealth services, either through local primary care practices or through partnerships with larger healthcare systems, is a critical component of the "Asthma Score." Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient access, reduce the burden of travel, and enhance the overall management of asthma. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms and adjust treatment plans accordingly can be particularly beneficial in preventing exacerbations.

The interplay between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Conversely, mental health issues can worsen asthma symptoms and adherence to treatment plans. The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is therefore crucial. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, who can provide support and address the psychological aspects of asthma. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers would receive a higher "Asthma Score" rating. The ability to address the holistic needs of patients, encompassing both physical and mental health, is essential for optimal asthma management.

Beyond the individual physician and practice level, the availability of ancillary services also impacts the "Asthma Score." Access to respiratory therapists, who can provide specialized asthma education and support, is important. The presence of local pharmacies that stock a wide range of asthma medications and offer convenient prescription refill services is also a factor. Furthermore, the availability of community-based asthma education programs, such as those offered by local hospitals or health organizations, can empower patients to better manage their condition.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Colver, PA (15927) is a complex metric determined by various factors. The availability of primary care physicians, their adherence to asthma management guidelines, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. The presence of standout practices, offering specialized asthma care and patient-centered services, further enhances the score. A comprehensive assessment of these elements is essential for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and for identifying areas for improvement. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the quality of asthma care in Colver, highlighting the importance of accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered care.

To gain a visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Colver, including physician locations, access to resources, and potential gaps in care, explore the power of spatial data analysis with CartoChrome maps.