16121, Farrell, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16121, Farrell, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.77 percent of the residents in 16121 has some form of health insurance. 76.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.30 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 16121 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,254 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16121. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 900 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,125 health care providers accessible to residents in 16121, Farrell, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Farrell, PA (ZIP Code 16121)

Farrell, Pennsylvania, a small city in Mercer County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Understanding the availability and quality of primary care, especially concerning a chronic condition like asthma, is crucial for residents. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating the resources available to manage this respiratory ailment within the 16121 ZIP code. The score will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effective asthma care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide insight into the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) practicing within the 16121 ZIP code and the surrounding areas. Comparing this number to the population of Farrell will yield a ratio. A ratio significantly below the national average might suggest a challenge in accessing timely care. This is especially concerning for asthma patients who require regular check-ups and prompt intervention during exacerbations.

Identifying "standout practices" involves examining the quality of care offered by local medical facilities. This assessment goes beyond simply counting physicians. It involves researching practices that specialize in respiratory care or have a demonstrated commitment to asthma management. This could include practices that have earned recognition from organizations like the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) or those that actively participate in asthma research or clinical trials. Furthermore, reviewing patient testimonials and online ratings can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall quality of care. The presence of certified asthma educators (CAEs) within a practice is another significant factor, as these professionals provide specialized education and support to patients, empowering them to manage their condition effectively.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to care. For asthma patients, telemedicine can be used for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and even remote monitoring of lung function using connected devices. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of local practices involves determining whether they offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring programs, and electronic prescription services. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

The integration of mental health resources is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of asthma management. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this and offer integrated mental health services are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This includes having mental health professionals on staff, offering referrals to mental health specialists, and providing educational resources on managing the psychological impact of asthma. Evaluating the availability of mental health resources within local practices is an essential component of the "Asthma Score" analysis.

Farrell’s specific challenges require a nuanced approach. The socio-economic factors prevalent in the community can influence access to care and adherence to treatment plans. Low-income populations may face barriers such as lack of transportation, limited access to healthy food, and inadequate housing conditions, all of which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, practices that are sensitive to these factors and offer culturally competent care are particularly valuable. This might involve providing financial assistance for medications, offering transportation assistance, or partnering with community organizations to address social determinants of health.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Farrell, PA (16121) would be determined by a comprehensive evaluation of the factors discussed above. The final score would reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of asthma care available to residents. The analysis would consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with specialized asthma care, the adoption of telemedicine technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for asthma management, while a lower score would highlight areas where improvements are needed. This analysis is designed to provide a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Farrell, PA, and to identify opportunities for improvement in asthma care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics in Farrell, PA, and the surrounding areas, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome. Their maps can provide a visual representation of the data discussed in this analysis, allowing you to identify areas with limited access to care and to better understand the challenges faced by residents with asthma.