16117, Ellwood City, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16117, Ellwood City, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.40 percent of the residents in 16117 has some form of health insurance. 41.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.89 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 16117 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,760 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16117. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,491 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,427 health care providers accessible to residents in 16117, Ellwood City, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Ellwood City, PA (ZIP Code 16117)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape of Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, particularly concerning asthma management and primary care accessibility, necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on evaluating the availability and quality of care for asthma patients within ZIP code 16117, considering physician density, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the availability of supporting mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, offering insights for residents and healthcare providers alike.

The foundation of any good asthma management strategy rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Ellwood City, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise numbers fluctuate, the area often experiences a shortage of PCPs, creating potential bottlenecks for patients seeking initial diagnoses, routine check-ups, and medication refills. This scarcity can lead to delayed care, increased emergency room visits, and ultimately, poorer asthma control. A lower physician-to-patient ratio translates to a lower "Asthma Score" due to accessibility concerns.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices are important. Practices that prioritize asthma management through established protocols, patient education, and regular monitoring contribute positively to the "Asthma Score." Practices that have a dedicated asthma specialist or a nurse practitioner with specialized training are particularly valuable. These practices often implement evidence-based guidelines, offer personalized asthma action plans, and provide comprehensive patient education on trigger avoidance, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique. The presence of these features would increase the "Asthma Score."

Telemedicine adoption is another key element. Telemedicine offers several benefits for asthma patients, especially those in rural or underserved areas. Remote consultations, virtual monitoring of peak flow readings, and medication management via telehealth platforms can improve access to care, reduce the need for in-person visits, and enhance patient convenience. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their asthma care protocols receive a higher "Asthma Score." The ability to remotely monitor patients and quickly adjust treatment plans is particularly crucial for managing asthma exacerbations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they are crucial. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer or have strong referral pathways to mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, earn a higher "Asthma Score." Addressing the psychological impact of asthma is essential for holistic patient care and improved asthma control. The integration of mental health support demonstrates a commitment to comprehensive patient well-being.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. Some practices in Ellwood City may demonstrate exemplary asthma management strategies. These practices often have: a dedicated asthma educator, a strong focus on patient education, and a track record of positive patient outcomes. They may also participate in asthma-related research or community outreach programs. Recognizing and highlighting these standout practices can provide a model for other providers and improve the overall "Asthma Score" for the area. The specific details of standout practices must be obtained through direct research, including patient reviews and practice assessments.

Evaluating the overall "Asthma Score" involves weighing these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable environment for asthma patients, with a good physician-to-patient ratio, practices that prioritize asthma management, the widespread adoption of telemedicine, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest challenges in accessing quality asthma care, highlighting the need for improvements in various areas. This score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated as healthcare practices evolve.

Factors that would lower the score include a lack of specialists, limited telemedicine options, and a lack of mental health support. Factors that would increase the score include a good physician-to-patient ratio, practices with specialized asthma programs, and robust telemedicine integration.

Determining the "Asthma Score" for Ellwood City requires a detailed investigation of available data. This includes: physician demographics, practice profiles, telemedicine capabilities, and mental health resource availability. Publicly available data sources, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and local hospital systems, provide valuable information. Additionally, patient surveys and community feedback can offer crucial insights into the patient experience.

The creation of a comprehensive "Asthma Score" is a complex process that needs ongoing data collection and analysis. The score should be viewed as a tool to assess and improve asthma care in Ellwood City. By identifying areas of strength and weakness, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations can collaborate to enhance the quality of life for asthma patients.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Ellwood City and explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can help visualize physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, providing a valuable tool for both patients and healthcare professionals.