16143, Pulaski, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16143, Pulaski, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.05 percent of the residents in 16143 has some form of health insurance. 43.90 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.99 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 16143 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 253 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16143. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 502 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,653 health care providers accessible to residents in 16143, Pulaski, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Pulaski, PA (ZIP Code 16143)

This analysis delves into the availability of primary care physicians and the resources available for managing asthma within the Pulaski, Pennsylvania ZIP code of 16143. We will evaluate the landscape through the lens of an "Asthma Score," considering factors crucial for effective asthma management, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health support. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment for asthma sufferers in this specific area.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a critical indicator of this accessibility. Ideally, a lower ratio signifies a greater availability of physicians, allowing for more frequent check-ups, proactive management, and timely intervention during exacerbations. While precise figures require data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an assessment of the general physician density in Pulaski is crucial. A low physician density, or a high patient-to-physician ratio, would negatively impact the Asthma Score, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment plans, and increased hospitalizations.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of primary care practices significantly influence the Asthma Score. Practices that prioritize asthma management, offering specialized services or employing staff with expertise in respiratory care, would contribute positively. This includes practices that utilize spirometry testing, a crucial diagnostic tool for assessing lung function. The availability of asthma education programs, both for patients and caregivers, is also a key factor. These programs empower individuals to understand their condition, identify triggers, and manage their symptoms effectively. Practices actively involved in community outreach and awareness campaigns related to asthma would also enhance the score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in modern healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption in Pulaski significantly impacts the Asthma Score. Practices that offer telemedicine consultations, allowing for remote monitoring of symptoms and medication adjustments, would receive higher marks. Telemedicine can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. It can also facilitate more frequent check-ins, enabling physicians to proactively address potential issues and prevent exacerbations. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, would further enhance the score.

The often-overlooked aspect of mental health plays a crucial role in asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a person's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health resources into their care models would contribute positively to the Asthma Score. This includes having on-site mental health professionals, providing referrals to therapists specializing in chronic illness, and offering support groups for asthma sufferers. A holistic approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition is essential for optimal patient outcomes.

Specific practices within Pulaski warrant closer examination to determine their contribution to the Asthma Score. Identifying standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management, offering comprehensive services, and embracing innovative approaches like telemedicine is essential. This analysis would involve evaluating their patient reviews, assessing their participation in quality improvement initiatives, and examining their adherence to evidence-based asthma guidelines. Practices that actively participate in research or clinical trials related to asthma would also receive favorable consideration.

Conversely, practices that lack these features would negatively impact the overall Asthma Score. Limited access to specialized care, a lack of asthma education programs, and a reluctance to adopt telemedicine would all detract from the score. Furthermore, practices that fail to address the mental health needs of their patients would be penalized. The goal is to identify areas for improvement and highlight best practices to enhance the quality of asthma care in Pulaski.

The availability of primary care, the characteristics of practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all contribute to the Asthma Score. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to manage asthma effectively, leading to better patient outcomes and a higher quality of life for asthma sufferers. A low score, on the other hand, signals a need for improvement, highlighting areas where resources and services are lacking.

This analysis provides a general overview of the factors influencing the Asthma Score in Pulaski, PA (16143). To gain a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape, including the specific locations of primary care practices, the availability of specialized services, and other relevant data points, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping capabilities provide a visual representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify areas of high and low access, understand physician distribution, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.