15955, Sidman, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15955, Sidman, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.94 percent of the residents in 15955 has some form of health insurance. 37.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.71 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 15955 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 391 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15955. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 499 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,147 health care providers accessible to residents in 15955, Sidman, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Sidman, PA (ZIP Code 15955)

Analyzing asthma care within Sidman, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15955) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers factors impacting asthma management, including physician availability, quality of care, and accessibility of resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the landscape, enabling informed decisions for residents and healthcare providers.

The core of asthma care revolves around the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Sidman, a small community, likely faces challenges in this area. A low physician-to-patient ratio, where the number of patients per PCP is high, could lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent per patient. This can negatively impact asthma management, as regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and education are crucial. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing local healthcare data, which is often proprietary and may not be publicly available. However, the size of the community suggests a potential scarcity of PCPs, necessitating residents to seek care outside of Sidman, adding to travel time and potentially impacting adherence to treatment plans.

Beyond the number of PCPs, the quality of care is paramount. Assessing this involves examining the practices of physicians within the area. Are they up-to-date on the latest asthma guidelines? Do they utilize evidence-based treatments, including inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists, when appropriate? Do they provide comprehensive asthma action plans tailored to each patient's needs? Are they proactive in addressing environmental triggers, such as allergens and irritants? These questions are best answered through a review of physician practices, patient satisfaction surveys, and potentially, a review of healthcare outcomes data, such as asthma-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits.

Identifying standout practices within Sidman is crucial. This involves recognizing those physicians who consistently demonstrate excellence in asthma care. This could include practices that have implemented innovative approaches, such as patient education programs, asthma support groups, or readily available resources for managing asthma triggers. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a significant indicator of quality care. Such educators provide specialized training and support to patients, empowering them to manage their condition effectively.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. Telemedicine allows for medication refills, symptom monitoring, and follow-up appointments without the need for in-person visits. Examining the extent of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in Sidman is essential. Are physicians utilizing telehealth platforms for asthma management? Are these platforms accessible and user-friendly for patients?

Asthma often co-exists with other health conditions, including mental health issues. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms and hinder effective management. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is crucial. Does Sidman have access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists? Are these resources integrated into primary care practices, facilitating seamless referrals and coordinated care? The lack of adequate mental health support can significantly impact asthma control, leading to poorer outcomes.

The availability of specialized resources, such as pulmonologists, is also important. While PCPs provide the foundation of asthma care, pulmonologists offer specialized expertise in diagnosing and managing complex asthma cases. The proximity of pulmonologists to Sidman, and the ease with which patients can access their services, can significantly impact the quality of care.

Furthermore, access to pharmacy services is critical. Are there pharmacies within Sidman that can readily fill asthma prescriptions? Do these pharmacies offer services like medication counseling and refill reminders? The convenience of accessing medications is a key factor in ensuring patient adherence to treatment plans.

Environmental factors also play a role. The presence of common asthma triggers in the Sidman area, such as pollen, mold, and air pollution, can impact asthma control. Understanding the local environment and the potential for exposure to these triggers is essential for effective asthma management. This requires assessing local environmental data and educating patients about strategies to minimize exposure.

The assessment of asthma care in Sidman must also consider the socioeconomic factors of the community. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can all create barriers to accessing care. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for ensuring equitable asthma management for all residents.

In conclusion, evaluating asthma care in Sidman, PA (15955) requires a comprehensive analysis of physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and environmental factors. Identifying standout practices, understanding the local healthcare landscape, and addressing social determinants of health are essential steps in improving asthma management within the community. The availability of comprehensive, up-to-date healthcare data is crucial for a truly accurate assessment.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, environmental factors, and socioeconomic data related to asthma in Sidman and surrounding areas, explore the power of interactive mapping tools. Consider using CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of the landscape and identify areas for improvement.