16134, Jamestown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16134, Jamestown, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.17 percent of the residents in 16134 has some form of health insurance. 51.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.78 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 16134 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 787 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16134. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,079 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,458 health care providers accessible to residents in 16134, Jamestown, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16134 & Primary Care in Jamestown

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in Jamestown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16134), with a specific focus on asthma management and related resources. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective asthma care, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and integration of mental health support. This score aims to inform residents and healthcare providers alike about the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of any asthma management strategy rests on accessible and knowledgeable primary care. In Jamestown, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, a review of publicly available data, including state medical board records and demographic information, suggests a potential challenge. A higher patient-to-physician ratio can strain resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments, reduced appointment durations, and less personalized care. This impacts the ability to effectively manage a chronic condition like asthma, which requires regular monitoring, medication adjustments, and patient education.

Standout practices within the Jamestown area are essential for improving the overall Asthma Score. These are healthcare providers that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma care. This includes practices that proactively implement evidence-based guidelines for asthma management, such as those established by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). This would involve detailed patient education on triggers, medication adherence, and asthma action plans. These plans are personalized roadmaps for patients to follow during asthma flare-ups, empowering them to manage their condition effectively.

Furthermore, standout practices often prioritize preventative care. This includes regular check-ups, lung function testing (spirometry), and seasonal influenza vaccinations, all crucial for preventing asthma exacerbations. The integration of respiratory therapists into the care team also significantly improves asthma management. Respiratory therapists possess specialized knowledge and skills in pulmonary function testing, medication delivery, and patient education, providing a valuable resource for asthma patients.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve the Asthma Score in Jamestown. Telehealth allows patients to access care remotely, which is especially beneficial for those with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations for medication refills, symptom monitoring, and even asthma education sessions. The implementation of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters connected to a telehealth platform, can provide valuable data to physicians, enabling proactive intervention and reducing the frequency of emergency room visits. The success of telemedicine, however, hinges on the availability of reliable internet access and patient comfort with technology.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of asthma management. Asthma, as a chronic illness, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. These mental health concerns can, in turn, exacerbate asthma symptoms and reduce medication adherence. Therefore, practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care programs significantly boost their Asthma Score. This could involve on-site therapists, referrals to mental health specialists, or the use of validated screening tools to identify patients in need of mental health support. Collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals creates a more holistic approach to patient care.

Assessing the availability of mental health resources in Jamestown is critical. This includes evaluating the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) available in the area. The ease of access to these resources, including wait times for appointments and insurance coverage, also plays a significant role. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their asthma patients demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care and contribute to a higher Asthma Score.

In evaluating the Asthma Score for Jamestown, it's also important to consider the availability of specialized asthma care. While PCPs are the first point of contact, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma may require referral to a pulmonologist. The proximity of pulmonologists, their expertise in managing complex asthma cases, and the ease of referral from PCPs are all important factors. The presence of specialized asthma clinics or programs within the local healthcare system also positively impacts the score.

The overall Asthma Score for Jamestown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16134), is a complex metric, influenced by multiple factors. Addressing the potential challenges in physician-to-patient ratios, promoting the adoption of evidence-based practices, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and integrating mental health resources are all essential steps to improve the care provided to asthma patients.

To gain a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Jamestown, including the location of practices, physician specialties, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. This powerful tool allows you to visualize and analyze healthcare data, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and the healthcare resources available in your community.