15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.53 percent of the residents in 15943 has some form of health insurance. 46.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.66 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 15943 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 937 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15943. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 837 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,313 health care providers accessible to residents in 15943, Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Nanty Glo, PA (ZIP Code 15943)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Nanty Glo, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15943) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an “Asthma Score,” assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) accessible to residents, focusing on asthma management capabilities. The score considers factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Nanty Glo is a critical starting point. A low ratio, meaning a limited number of PCPs serving a relatively large population, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to care, and potentially delayed asthma management. While precise, up-to-the-minute data on this ratio is dynamic and requires constant monitoring, publically available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can provide a general estimate. This data, when analyzed alongside population demographics, paints a picture of the potential strain on existing primary care resources. A high ratio necessitates a deeper dive into how effectively existing providers manage asthma patients.

Identifying standout practices in Nanty Glo requires investigating practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma care excellence. This includes assessing whether practices adhere to established asthma management guidelines, such as those provided by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). Key indicators include the availability of spirometry testing (a measure of lung function), patient education programs about asthma triggers and medication use, and the implementation of asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs. Practices that proactively engage in these activities are more likely to achieve better asthma control for their patients. Further research would involve examining patient testimonials, reviewing practice websites for asthma-specific information, and potentially contacting local advocacy groups for insights.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital element of the Asthma Score. The ability to offer virtual consultations can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in remote areas. Telemedicine can facilitate medication refills, provide ongoing monitoring of asthma symptoms, and offer educational resources. Practices that have embraced telemedicine platforms and are actively utilizing them to manage asthma patients are awarded higher marks in the Asthma Score. The effectiveness of telemedicine is further enhanced when integrated with remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters, allowing physicians to track patient’s lung function and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is often overlooked but is a crucial factor. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. The Asthma Score reflects the availability of these resources and the extent to which they are integrated into the asthma management plan. The score would also consider whether practices screen patients for mental health concerns and provide support for managing stress and anxiety related to asthma.

The availability of primary care in Nanty Glo is directly linked to the overall health of the community. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and increased hospitalizations for asthma exacerbations. The Asthma Score therefore considers the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code, assessing whether access is equitable for all residents, including those in underserved areas. Factors such as transportation barriers, insurance coverage, and language access are also considered.

To further refine the Asthma Score, it's essential to analyze the data available from insurance providers and healthcare networks. This information can reveal patterns in utilization of asthma medications, hospitalizations, and emergency room visits related to asthma. This data can be used to identify areas where asthma management could be improved. It is also important to analyze the types of specialists available in the area, such as pulmonologists and allergists, as they can play a vital role in managing complex asthma cases.

The impact of socioeconomic factors on asthma control is also acknowledged. Poverty, poor housing conditions, and exposure to environmental pollutants can exacerbate asthma symptoms. The Asthma Score would incorporate an understanding of the socioeconomic profile of Nanty Glo, considering factors such as income levels, housing quality, and proximity to industrial sites. Practices that actively address these social determinants of health, for example, through partnerships with community organizations or providing resources for patients struggling with housing or financial instability, are given higher ratings.

The ultimate goal of the Asthma Score is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the asthma care landscape in Nanty Glo, PA (ZIP Code 15943). This assessment is dynamic and requires regular updates to reflect changes in the healthcare system, including the emergence of new treatments, the adoption of innovative technologies, and shifts in the availability of healthcare providers. The score serves as a tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas for improvement and to work collaboratively to enhance the quality of asthma care in the community.

For a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Nanty Glo, PA (ZIP Code 15943), including physician locations, practice specialties, and access to resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their detailed mapping tools offer a powerful way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.