15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 15937 has some form of health insurance. 47.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.99 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 15937 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15937. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 135 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,830 health care providers accessible to residents in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Jerome, PA (ZIP Code 15937)

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP Code 15937, encompassing Jerome, Pennsylvania, with a focus on primary care availability and the resources available to manage this chronic respiratory condition. We'll examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, all contributing to an overall "Asthma Score" assessment. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare ecosystem for asthma sufferers in this specific geographical area.

Jerome, like many rural communities, faces unique challenges in healthcare delivery. Population density is lower than in urban areas, potentially impacting the accessibility of specialists and specialized asthma care programs. Understanding the specific context of Jerome is crucial for a meaningful assessment.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Access**

A fundamental aspect of asthma management is access to primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio directly influences the ability of individuals to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing monitoring, and medication management. In Jerome, the ratio is likely a critical factor. We must consider the number of PCPs actively practicing within the ZIP code, the average patient load each physician carries, and the availability of appointments. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially delayed or inadequate care.

Primary care availability extends beyond just the number of doctors. It encompasses factors such as insurance acceptance, the availability of evening or weekend appointments, and the presence of multilingual staff to serve the diverse needs of the community. The ease with which patients can access their PCP is a critical component of asthma control.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within Jerome and the surrounding areas is essential. These practices often demonstrate best practices in asthma management. This could include implementing standardized asthma action plans, providing patient education materials, and actively monitoring patient adherence to prescribed medications.

Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient data and facilitate communication between different healthcare providers are also likely to be more effective. EHRs allow for better coordination of care, enabling PCPs to share information with specialists, pharmacies, and other healthcare professionals involved in a patient's asthma management.

Furthermore, practices that offer specialized asthma education programs, such as those led by certified asthma educators, can significantly improve patient outcomes. These programs empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition, leading to fewer asthma exacerbations and improved quality of life.

**Telemedicine Adoption: Bridging the Distance**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for expanding access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Jerome. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices and specialists can significantly improve asthma care. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially minimizing disruptions to their daily lives.

Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for asthma management. Physicians can use video consultations to assess a patient's breathing, review inhaler technique, and provide education and support. Remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and pulse oximeters, can be integrated with telemedicine platforms to provide physicians with real-time data on a patient's condition.

The success of telemedicine adoption depends on several factors, including the availability of reliable internet access, patient and physician comfort with technology, and the integration of telemedicine platforms with existing EHR systems.

**Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Component**

Asthma is not just a physical condition; it can also have a significant impact on mental health. Chronic respiratory conditions can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within Jerome is a crucial component of the overall Asthma Score.

Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is essential for providing support to asthma patients. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is crucial for ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within the primary care setting, can improve access and coordination of care.

The presence of support groups and educational programs focused on managing the psychological aspects of asthma can also be beneficial. These resources provide patients with opportunities to connect with others who share similar experiences and learn coping strategies.

**Overall Asthma Score Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed above, an Asthma Score for Jerome, PA (ZIP Code 15937) would be determined by evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care appointments, the presence of standout practices with evidence-based asthma management programs, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more favorable healthcare environment for asthma sufferers, while a lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed.

**Call to Action**

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jerome, PA, and explore the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping tools that allow you to visualize physician locations, hospital access, and other relevant data points, providing a comprehensive view of the healthcare ecosystem.