16131, Hartstown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16131, Hartstown, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.61 percent of the residents in 16131 has some form of health insurance. 41.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.14 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 16131 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 186 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16131. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 184 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,261 health care providers accessible to residents in 16131, Hartstown, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Hartstown, PA (ZIP Code 16131)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Hartstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16131) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of asthma management offered by local doctors, and the resources available to patients. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, though a precise numerical score is difficult to generate without access to proprietary patient data and specific performance metrics. Instead, we will provide a qualitative evaluation based on publicly available information and general healthcare trends.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in accessible primary care. Hartstown, being a rural area, likely faces challenges related to physician availability. Examining physician-to-patient ratios is crucial. The national average physician-to-patient ratio provides a benchmark. If Hartstown's ratio significantly exceeds the national average, it indicates potential difficulties in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate management of asthma triggers, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes for asthma sufferers.

The presence of primary care practices within the ZIP code is also paramount. Are there solo practitioners, small group practices, or larger multi-specialty clinics? The size and structure of these practices can impact patient access and the range of services offered. Larger clinics might offer a broader array of specialists and resources, potentially including respiratory therapists or asthma educators. Conversely, smaller practices may provide more personalized care and a stronger patient-physician relationship, which is often beneficial for managing chronic conditions like asthma.

Identifying standout practices requires looking beyond mere availability. We need to assess the quality of care. This involves examining factors like the practice's adherence to asthma guidelines, its patient education programs, and its use of technology to improve patient outcomes. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, provide thorough asthma action plans, and regularly monitor lung function are likely to achieve better results.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online educational resources are better positioned to support asthma patients. This is especially important for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and addressing urgent concerns without requiring a physical office visit.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet they play a significant role. Asthma can be a stressful condition, and anxiety and depression can exacerbate symptoms. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, within or in close proximity to primary care practices is essential. Integration of mental health services into asthma care can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall well-being. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate resources are demonstrating a commitment to holistic patient care.

To further evaluate the asthma care landscape, we can explore the presence of specific programs or initiatives. Are there any local asthma support groups? Are there collaborations between primary care practices and local hospitals or specialists? These collaborations can improve care coordination and access to specialized expertise, such as pulmonologists or allergists.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors affecting the population. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can all negatively impact asthma management. Practices that understand and address these social determinants of health are better equipped to serve their patients. This may involve offering financial assistance, providing transportation support, or connecting patients with community resources.

The evaluation process also needs to consider the availability of pharmacies and the ease of medication access. Are there local pharmacies that stock the necessary asthma medications? Are there programs that help patients afford their medications? These practical considerations are crucial for ensuring that patients can adhere to their prescribed treatment plans.

Ultimately, an “Asthma Score” for Hartstown, PA (16131) would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate readily available primary care, practices that actively manage asthma according to best practices, telemedicine adoption, integration of mental health services, and support for patients' socioeconomic needs. A lower score would suggest challenges in one or more of these areas, potentially leading to poorer asthma control and increased healthcare costs.

This analysis highlights the complexity of assessing asthma care. While a precise numerical score is difficult to generate without more detailed data, this evaluation provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the asthma care landscape in Hartstown, PA.

For a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution in Hartstown, PA, and surrounding areas, explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. Their maps provide detailed visualizations of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and demographic data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.