16150, Sharpsville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16150, Sharpsville, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.70 percent of the residents in 16150 has some form of health insurance. 45.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.18 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 16150 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,398 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16150. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,547 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,978 health care providers accessible to residents in 16150, Sharpsville, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Sharpsville, PA (ZIP Code 16150)

Sharpsville, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 16150 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for asthma care. An "Asthma Score" analysis, considering factors like physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health support, is crucial for understanding the accessibility and effectiveness of care for residents managing this chronic respiratory condition. This analysis focuses on the primary care environment, as it serves as the foundational point of contact for most asthma patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Sharpsville, and the surrounding Mercer County area, is a critical indicator of access. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, when combined, can provide a rough estimate of this ratio. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that these figures represent all primary care physicians, not solely those specializing in asthma or pulmonology. Therefore, this analysis must consider the availability of specialists in nearby areas, like Hermitage and Sharon, to supplement the primary care network in Sharpsville.

Evaluating the quality of care involves assessing individual practices. This requires examining factors like patient reviews, the availability of asthma-specific education materials, and the use of standardized asthma management protocols. Practices that actively engage in patient education, offer personalized asthma action plans, and consistently monitor lung function through spirometry tend to provide superior care. Online platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient reviews, which, while subjective, can provide insights into patient satisfaction and the overall experience within a practice. The presence of board-certified physicians in internal medicine or family medicine, with a demonstrated interest in respiratory health, further enhances the quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person care can be challenging. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Sharpsville is a significant factor in the Asthma Score. Practices that offer virtual consultations for medication refills, follow-up appointments, and symptom monitoring can improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of lung function using devices that transmit data to the physician, allowing for proactive intervention when necessary. The availability of telemedicine platforms, the training of staff in their use, and the integration of these platforms into the practice's workflow are all crucial elements of successful telemedicine adoption.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the impact of mental health. Asthma, being a chronic condition, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The Asthma Score must therefore evaluate the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals. Practices that screen for mental health concerns, offer on-site counseling services, or have established referral networks with mental health professionals demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is essential for addressing the complex interplay between asthma and mental well-being.

Certain practices within the 16150 ZIP code, or those serving its residents, may stand out for their commitment to asthma care. These "standout practices" often demonstrate a proactive approach to patient management. This includes actively educating patients about their condition, providing personalized asthma action plans, and regularly reviewing treatment regimens. They may also participate in quality improvement initiatives, track patient outcomes, and actively seek feedback from patients. The presence of dedicated asthma educators, nurses, or respiratory therapists within the practice can significantly enhance the quality of care. These practices are crucial for improving the overall Asthma Score for the community.

The overall Asthma Score for Sharpsville, PA (16150) will therefore be a composite measure, reflecting the availability of primary care physicians, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score indicates a robust healthcare environment that supports effective asthma management. Conversely, a low score highlights areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician availability, enhancing practice quality, expanding telemedicine adoption, and strengthening mental health support.

This analysis, however, is limited by the availability of public data and the dynamic nature of healthcare practices. Physician availability, practice offerings, and the adoption of new technologies are constantly evolving. A comprehensive Asthma Score analysis would ideally involve direct contact with local practices, surveys of patients, and a review of clinical data.

For a more detailed, visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Sharpsville, including the location of primary care practices, the availability of specialists, and the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their mapping tools can offer a granular perspective on the accessibility and availability of asthma-related care in the 16150 ZIP code.