16223, Distant, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16223, Distant, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16223 has some form of health insurance. 39.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.60 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 16223 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16223. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 15 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 891 health care providers accessible to residents in 16223, Distant, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below examines asthma care within ZIP code 16223 and primary care accessibility in Distant, Pennsylvania, focusing on metrics relevant to asthma management. This evaluation considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of comprehensive asthma care.

ZIP code 16223, encompassing the town of Clarion, Pennsylvania, presents a specific demographic profile that influences healthcare needs. Understanding the prevalence of asthma within this population is the first step. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides data on asthma prevalence, and local health departments often maintain records that can offer more granular insights. This data, coupled with census information on age, race, and socioeconomic status, helps paint a picture of the community's vulnerability to asthma.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access to care. A low ratio, meaning a high number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially compromised quality of care. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the American Medical Association (AMA) can be used to determine the number of primary care physicians and pulmonologists practicing within 16223 and the surrounding areas. This information must be cross-referenced with the estimated population to calculate the ratio. A shortage of specialists, particularly pulmonologists, can significantly impact asthma patients.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating the quality of care provided. This can be assessed through several factors. First, the presence of board-certified pulmonologists and allergists is a strong indicator of expertise. Second, practices that adhere to national guidelines for asthma management, such as those established by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), are likely to deliver higher-quality care. Third, patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Finally, practices that offer comprehensive services, including asthma education, peak flow meter training, and personalized action plans, are considered superior.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in asthma management. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for routine follow-ups and medication adjustments. Practices that offer telemedicine capabilities, including video conferencing and remote monitoring of lung function, can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The availability of telemedicine services should be assessed for practices within 16223 and in neighboring areas accessible to residents.

Mental health resources are a crucial but often overlooked aspect of asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of these resources within the community, including access to therapists, support groups, and mental health clinics, is essential for providing comprehensive asthma management.

Primary care availability in Distant, Pennsylvania, is a related but distinct concern. Distant, being a more rural area, may face challenges in accessing primary care services. The analysis must assess the number of primary care physicians practicing in Distant and the surrounding areas, the distance patients must travel to access care, and the availability of transportation options. Additionally, the acceptance of various insurance plans and the availability of evening or weekend appointments are important factors to consider. The presence of community health centers and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in the area can also significantly improve access to care for underserved populations.

The effectiveness of asthma management is also linked to patient education. Practices that offer comprehensive asthma education programs, including information on triggers, medication use, and self-management techniques, are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. The availability of educational materials in multiple languages, if applicable to the local population, is another important factor. Asthma education should be a core component of any effective asthma care plan.

Medication adherence is another critical factor. Physicians must work with patients to ensure they understand their medication regimens and are able to take their medications as prescribed. This requires clear communication, patient education, and addressing any barriers to medication adherence, such as cost or side effects. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) to track medication adherence and provide reminders to patients are likely to achieve better outcomes.

The evaluation of asthma care in 16223 and primary care access in Distant must consider the specific needs of the population. This includes understanding the prevalence of asthma, the demographic characteristics of the community, and any unique challenges faced by residents. The analysis must also consider the impact of social determinants of health, such as poverty, housing, and access to healthy food, on asthma outcomes.

In conclusion, assessing asthma care within ZIP code 16223 and primary care availability in Distant requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves analyzing physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, evaluating telemedicine adoption, and assessing the availability of mental health resources. Furthermore, it necessitates understanding the specific needs of the population and addressing any barriers to care. Comprehensive asthma management requires a collaborative effort between physicians, patients, and the community.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution in the region, including physician locations, hospital locations, and the location of mental health resources, consider exploring the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's mapping tools can visually represent the data discussed, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape.