16214, Clarion, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16214, Clarion, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.62 percent of the residents in 16214 has some form of health insurance. 27.04 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.56 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 16214 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,652 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16214. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,003 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 454 health care providers accessible to residents in 16214, Clarion, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on asthma care and primary care access within Clarion, Pennsylvania, specifically evaluating physicians practicing within the 16214 ZIP code. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape, incorporating factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This information is crucial for residents seeking effective asthma management and comprehensive primary care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Clarion, while not readily available as a singular, definitive number, requires a deeper dive. National averages, and those for rural areas, often suggest a shortage of primary care physicians. To assess the situation in 16214, one must consider the total population and the number of practicing primary care physicians within the ZIP code. This includes family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians. Furthermore, the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists who specialize in asthma care, is essential. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access to care, allowing for more personalized attention and shorter wait times. Conversely, a higher ratio can strain resources, potentially leading to delayed appointments and increased patient load per physician.

Standout practices in Clarion, particularly those excelling in asthma management, would likely demonstrate several key characteristics. These might include a focus on patient education, providing clear and concise information about asthma triggers, medication management, and action plans. Effective practices also often incorporate regular spirometry testing to monitor lung function and adjust treatment plans accordingly. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also a critical factor, facilitating efficient communication between physicians, specialists, and patients, and ensuring continuity of care. Furthermore, practices that embrace a multidisciplinary approach, involving nurses, respiratory therapists, and potentially asthma educators, often provide more comprehensive care.

Telemedicine adoption is an increasingly important aspect of healthcare delivery, especially in rural areas like Clarion. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists. For asthma management, telemedicine can be particularly useful for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and monitoring patients' symptoms. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow often demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and a proactive approach to healthcare. This includes providing secure video conferencing platforms, ensuring easy access to patient portals, and offering remote monitoring devices to track lung function. The presence of telemedicine also indicates a commitment to technological advancements, and a willingness to adapt to the changing needs of patients.

The integration of mental health resources within primary care is becoming increasingly recognized as a crucial element of overall patient well-being, and especially for those suffering from chronic conditions like asthma. Asthma can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety, and patients may experience psychological distress related to their condition. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic care. This can involve screening for anxiety and depression, providing brief counseling sessions, or connecting patients with therapists and psychiatrists. This integration is critical for improving patient outcomes and ensuring that individuals receive comprehensive care.

In evaluating the healthcare landscape in 16214, it is important to consider the broader context of primary care availability in Clarion. This includes the number of primary care practices, their hours of operation, and their acceptance of various insurance plans. The presence of urgent care clinics and hospital emergency rooms also contributes to the overall access to care. The availability of transportation options for patients, particularly those with limited mobility, is another crucial factor. This may include public transportation, ride-sharing services, or community-based transportation programs. Furthermore, the affordability of care, including the cost of medications and specialist visits, is a significant consideration.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape also involves understanding the demographics of the population served by the physicians in 16214. This includes age, socioeconomic status, and the prevalence of chronic conditions. This information helps to tailor healthcare services to the specific needs of the community. For example, practices serving a population with a high prevalence of asthma may prioritize asthma education and management programs. The availability of language services for non-English speaking patients is also a crucial consideration.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare resources available in Clarion, it is necessary to gather data from various sources. This includes reviewing physician directories, contacting local hospitals and clinics, and consulting with community health organizations. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided by individual physicians and practices. Data from health insurance providers can also be used to assess access to care and the utilization of healthcare services.

The healthcare landscape in 16214 is dynamic, and the availability of resources may change over time. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare. This includes tracking physician-to-patient ratios, monitoring telemedicine adoption rates, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. Regular assessments can help to identify areas for improvement and inform efforts to enhance healthcare delivery.

For a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability in Clarion, and for an interactive map of the healthcare landscape, we invite you to explore the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. This powerful tool allows you to visualize and analyze healthcare data, providing a comprehensive understanding of the resources available in your community.