16048, North Washington, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16048, North Washington, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.41 percent of the residents in 16048 has some form of health insurance. 65.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.08 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 16048 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 40 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16048. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 45 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,404 health care providers accessible to residents in 16048, North Washington, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in ZIP Code 16048 and North Washington

Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning asthma management, within ZIP code 16048 and the broader North Washington area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will assess the current landscape, considering physician-to-patient ratios, notable practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial elements in providing comprehensive asthma care. The goal is to understand the accessibility and quality of care for individuals living with asthma in this specific geographic region.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, publicly available information from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards provides a baseline. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates a potential shortage of primary care physicians, which can lead to longer wait times for appointments and decreased access to preventative care, all of which are detrimental to asthma management. ZIP code 16048, and the surrounding North Washington area, should be assessed to determine if it falls within a medically underserved area, which would further exacerbate these issues. The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also critical for asthma patients. Their availability, and the ease of referral, are vital components of effective asthma care.

Within ZIP code 16048, the presence of standout practices significantly influences the quality of care. Identifying practices known for their expertise in asthma management, proactive patient education, and adherence to national guidelines is essential. These practices often have dedicated asthma educators, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively monitor patient outcomes. They also tend to emphasize patient empowerment, ensuring individuals understand their condition and can effectively manage their symptoms. Investigating the patient satisfaction scores, as well as the practices' commitment to preventative care, such as regular check-ups and flu shots, will provide a more accurate picture of their effectiveness. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) and their interoperability with other healthcare providers is also a crucial aspect, allowing for seamless information sharing and improved care coordination.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased accessibility, reduced travel time, and the ability to monitor patients remotely. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function, particularly beneficial for patients with severe asthma or those living in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services, the ease of access, and the integration with existing care pathways will be key factors in determining the overall asthma score. Investigating the availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data directly to the physician, can also provide valuable insight into the level of care provided.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, and can significantly impact symptom control and overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting, or readily accessible through referrals, is a crucial component of comprehensive asthma care. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Assessing the integration of mental health services into the primary care practices in ZIP code 16048 and North Washington is vital. Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals are better equipped to provide holistic care for asthma patients.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma score for physicians in ZIP code 16048 and primary care availability in North Washington involves a detailed evaluation of several factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices with specialized asthma care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all crucial elements. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, and the ease of referral, are also essential. A comprehensive analysis of these factors will provide a clear understanding of the accessibility and quality of asthma care in the region. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, healthcare providers and policymakers can work to improve the overall care for individuals living with asthma in this specific geographic region.

Understanding the complex interplay of these factors requires a visual representation of the data. To gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and access to care, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps offer an interactive way to visualize the data, identify areas of need, and assess the impact of various factors on asthma care accessibility.