15963, Windber, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 15963, Windber, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.59 percent of the residents in 15963 has some form of health insurance. 41.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.02 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 15963 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,028 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15963. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,304 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 807 health care providers accessible to residents in 15963, Windber, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Windber, PA (ZIP Code 15963)

Windber, Pennsylvania, a borough nestled in the heart of Somerset County, faces the same healthcare challenges as many rural communities. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 15963, focusing on primary care access, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Asthma Score” assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

The cornerstone of effective asthma management is readily accessible primary care. In Windber, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) significantly impacts the Asthma Score. A higher concentration of PCPs, especially those accepting new patients, translates to easier access for routine check-ups, medication refills, and early intervention for asthma exacerbations. The current physician-to-patient ratio in the area is a critical factor. A favorable ratio, meaning a lower number of patients per physician, allows for more individualized care and shorter wait times. Conversely, a strained ratio can lead to delayed appointments and potentially compromised asthma control. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are used to assess the physician-to-patient ratio.

Windber Hospital, a key healthcare provider in the area, plays a vital role in asthma care. Assessing the hospital’s resources, including pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and asthma education programs, is essential. The presence of a dedicated asthma clinic or a comprehensive asthma management program within the hospital significantly boosts the Asthma Score. The hospital's commitment to patient education, providing resources on proper inhaler technique, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans, is crucial for empowering patients to manage their condition effectively.

Beyond the hospital, the Asthma Score considers the presence of standout primary care practices. These practices are identified by their commitment to asthma management, patient satisfaction, and innovative approaches to care. This includes practices that actively monitor patients' asthma control, provide personalized treatment plans, and offer convenient appointment scheduling. Identifying these exemplary practices and highlighting their best practices can serve as a model for other providers in the area.

Telemedicine adoption is a game-changer for rural healthcare. In Windber, telemedicine offers a solution to geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely. The Asthma Score considers the availability of telehealth services for asthma management, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce the burden of travel for patients, and potentially lower healthcare costs. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

The intricate relationship between asthma and mental health is a crucial element of the Asthma Score. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Conversely, mental health challenges can exacerbate asthma symptoms and worsen disease control. The Asthma Score assesses the integration of mental health resources into asthma care. This includes the availability of mental health professionals within primary care practices, referrals to mental health specialists, and the provision of mental health support groups. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide comprehensive support services receive a higher score.

Medication access is another critical factor. The Asthma Score evaluates the ease with which patients can obtain their asthma medications. This includes the availability of local pharmacies, the affordability of medications, and the presence of programs that assist patients with medication costs. Practices that proactively address medication access issues, such as offering assistance with prescription assistance programs, receive a higher score.

Asthma triggers are prevalent in the environment, and the Asthma Score considers environmental factors. The presence of allergens, air quality, and other environmental factors can trigger asthma symptoms. The Asthma Score assesses the availability of information on local air quality, pollen counts, and other environmental factors that may impact asthma patients. Practices that provide education on trigger avoidance and offer resources for managing environmental triggers receive a higher score.

The Asthma Score also considers the availability of asthma education programs. These programs provide patients with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their asthma effectively. The Asthma Score assesses the availability of asthma education programs in the area, including programs offered by hospitals, primary care practices, and community organizations. Practices that offer comprehensive asthma education programs receive a higher score.

The overall Asthma Score for Windber (ZIP code 15963) is a composite measure reflecting all these factors. It is not a single number but a nuanced assessment. The score reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system in providing asthma care. Areas with high scores demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma management, while areas with low scores indicate areas that require improvement. Regular reassessment of the Asthma Score is vital to track progress and identify areas that require intervention.

By analyzing these key aspects of asthma care, we can paint a clearer picture of the healthcare landscape in Windber. This analysis provides a foundation for identifying areas where resources can be allocated to improve asthma outcomes. The insights gained from this analysis can inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations in their efforts to enhance the quality and accessibility of asthma care in Windber. The goal is to empower patients, improve asthma control, and ultimately, enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.

For a visual representation of the data and a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can visually represent physician locations, hospital services, and other relevant data points. Explore the power of visualization and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.