16154, Transfer, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16154, Transfer, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.91 percent of the residents in 16154 has some form of health insurance. 43.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.47 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 16154 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 247 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16154. An estimate of 3 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 495 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 5,156 health care providers accessible to residents in 16154, Transfer, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Transfer, PA (ZIP Code 16154)

This analysis delves into the accessibility and quality of asthma care within Transfer, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16154), focusing on primary care availability and related resources. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all contributing to an overall "Asthma Score" assessment. This score, while not a single numerical value, represents a qualitative understanding of the community's capacity to effectively manage asthma.

The foundation of effective asthma management is readily accessible primary care. In Transfer, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of individuals with asthma to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing monitoring, and medication management. A low PCP-to-patient ratio suggests potential challenges in accessing appointments, leading to delayed care and potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms. Conversely, a higher ratio, coupled with efficient appointment scheduling and minimal wait times, indicates a more favorable environment for asthma patients. Publicly available data, such as the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) data, and local healthcare directories would be consulted to determine the current PCP-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code. This ratio forms a critical component of the "Asthma Score."

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Standout practices demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through various means. This includes employing certified asthma educators (CAEs) who provide patient education on proper inhaler technique, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) with asthma-specific templates and alerts are better equipped to track patient progress, identify potential exacerbations, and tailor treatment plans. The presence of spirometry testing capabilities within the practice is also a significant advantage, enabling accurate assessment of lung function and disease severity. Identifying these standout practices is crucial in understanding the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care within Transfer.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption within Transfer’s primary care practices can significantly impact the "Asthma Score." Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of symptoms. This is especially beneficial for patients with mobility limitations, those living in rural areas, or those facing transportation challenges. Practices that offer telemedicine options, particularly for follow-up appointments and symptom management, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters with data transmission capabilities, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma management.

The intricate connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, and these conditions can significantly worsen asthma symptoms and overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals is a crucial factor in the "Asthma Score." Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns, provide on-site counseling services, or have established referral pathways to mental health specialists demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration of mental health services acknowledges the multifaceted nature of asthma and its impact on patients' well-being.

The "Asthma Score" for Transfer, PA (16154) is therefore not a simple calculation. It is a composite assessment derived from several factors. The physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline understanding of access. The presence of certified asthma educators, EHR utilization, and spirometry capabilities in primary care practices signify quality. Telemedicine adoption reflects a commitment to convenience and proactive management. The availability of mental health resources acknowledges the crucial link between mental well-being and asthma control.

Based on the data collected, it is possible to assess the overall state of asthma care within the community. If the physician-to-patient ratio is high, but several practices boast certified asthma educators and telemedicine capabilities, the "Asthma Score" might be moderate, with areas for improvement. Conversely, a low ratio combined with a lack of specialized resources and mental health support would result in a lower score, indicating significant challenges for asthma patients.

The success of asthma management in Transfer is not solely the responsibility of healthcare providers. Patient education, community awareness, and access to affordable medications are equally important. Public health initiatives, support groups, and collaborations between healthcare providers and community organizations can significantly improve the "Asthma Score" by empowering patients to actively participate in their care.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution within Transfer, PA, and to visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and community resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of the data analyzed, highlighting areas of strength and weakness in asthma care and facilitating targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.