16153, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16153, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.95 percent of the residents in 16153 has some form of health insurance. 39.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.84 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 16153 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 563 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16153. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 377 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,741 health care providers accessible to residents in 16153, Stoneboro, Pennsylvania.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16153 and Primary Care Availability in Stoneboro, PA**

Analyzing the landscape of healthcare, particularly concerning asthma management and primary care accessibility in a defined geographic area, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 16153, encompassing Stoneboro, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding communities. The goal is to provide an 'Asthma Score' assessment, considering various factors that influence patient care and access to resources. This score is not a single numerical value, but rather a comprehensive evaluation based on several key performance indicators (KPIs).

The first crucial element is physician-to-patient ratio. Determining the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, relative to the population of Stoneboro and its surrounding areas, is paramount. A low ratio can indicate limited access, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and delayed diagnoses. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from insurance provider directories, forms the basis for this assessment. The presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, who can also provide primary care, is also factored in.

A critical aspect of the analysis is the evaluation of standout practices within the ZIP code. This involves identifying practices that demonstrate excellence in asthma management. Indicators of success include: the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines, patient education programs, adherence to national asthma guidelines, and the availability of specialized services like pulmonary function testing. Reviewing patient testimonials and online reviews, while not always definitive, can provide valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care. Practices that actively participate in community outreach programs and asthma awareness campaigns are also considered favorably.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The ability of physicians in ZIP Code 16153 to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management via telehealth platforms can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. The availability of telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel, improve medication adherence, and facilitate more frequent check-ins with healthcare providers. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, particularly those offering asynchronous communication options, receive a higher score in this area.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as integral to overall health, including asthma management. Asthma can be significantly impacted by stress, anxiety, and depression. The availability of mental health services, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the community or through referral networks is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referrals into their asthma care protocols are given high marks. The presence of mental health support groups and educational resources within the community also positively influences the score.

Assessing the availability of asthma education programs is also essential. Patient education is a cornerstone of effective asthma management. Practices that provide comprehensive education on asthma triggers, medication use, proper inhaler technique, and asthma action plans contribute to improved patient outcomes. The presence of certified asthma educators within the practice is a significant advantage. Educational materials should be available in multiple formats (written, online, and in-person) to cater to diverse patient needs.

The analysis further considers the availability of specialized asthma care. This includes access to pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable geographic proximity is critical for patients with complex or severe asthma. The ability of primary care physicians to readily refer patients to these specialists is also an important factor.

The utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) and interoperability is also assessed. EHRs streamline patient data management, improve care coordination, and facilitate communication between healthcare providers. Practices that utilize EHRs and participate in data exchange networks are more likely to provide coordinated and efficient care. The ability to share patient information seamlessly with specialists and other healthcare providers is a significant advantage.

The analysis also examines the affordability of care. This includes the acceptance of various insurance plans, the availability of financial assistance programs, and the cost of medications. Practices that work to minimize financial barriers to care receive a higher score. The availability of generic medications and access to pharmacy services within the community are also considered.

The responsiveness of healthcare providers to patient needs is another critical factor. This includes the ease of scheduling appointments, the availability of after-hours care, and the responsiveness to patient inquiries. Practices that prioritize patient communication and provide timely responses to questions and concerns receive a higher score. The use of patient portals and other communication tools also contributes to a positive score.

The overall 'Asthma Score' is a qualitative assessment based on the aggregation of these KPIs. It is not a simple average, but rather a nuanced evaluation that considers the relative importance of each factor. The score reflects the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care within ZIP Code 16153.

The analysis also considers the availability of emergency care services. The proximity of hospitals with emergency departments and the availability of rapid access to asthma-related interventions are crucial for managing acute asthma exacerbations. The presence of trained medical personnel who can provide immediate care is essential.

The availability of community resources is also factored in. This includes the presence of support groups, asthma awareness programs, and access to environmental health services. These resources can help patients manage their asthma and improve their overall quality of life.

Finally, the analysis considers the overall health of the community. This includes factors such as air quality, access to healthy food, and opportunities for physical activity. These factors can significantly impact asthma control.

By compiling and analyzing these factors, a comprehensive assessment of asthma care and primary care availability in Stoneboro and the surrounding areas is possible. This assessment can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness, and to develop strategies for improving patient care and access to resources.

To visualize the healthcare landscape and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and the factors influencing asthma care in ZIP Code 16153, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome.