16621, Broad Top, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16621, Broad Top, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.93 percent of the residents in 16621 has some form of health insurance. 43.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.75 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 16621 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 164 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16621. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 124 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 200 health care providers accessible to residents in 16621, Broad Top, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16621 and Primary Care Availability in Broad Top

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on two key areas: the availability and performance of physicians within ZIP code 16621, and the broader primary care landscape in Broad Top, Pennsylvania. This assessment will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight notable practices, examine the integration of telemedicine, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors in asthma care.

ZIP code 16621, encompassing the town of Claysburg and surrounding areas, presents a unique demographic and geographical profile that significantly impacts healthcare access. Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental step. While precise, real-time data on this ratio is difficult to obtain publicly, utilizing resources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, alongside professional healthcare directories, allows for estimation. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a scarcity of doctors relative to the population, can exacerbate asthma management challenges. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, limited access to specialists, and increased difficulty in establishing a consistent relationship with a primary care physician.

The quality of care is not solely determined by the number of physicians. Identifying standout practices within 16621 is crucial. These practices often demonstrate excellence in asthma management through various means. This might include employing certified asthma educators, offering comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively monitoring patients' asthma control through regular assessments. Such practices might also have a track record of successful patient outcomes, measured by metrics such as reduced hospitalizations and emergency room visits related to asthma exacerbations. Local community feedback, online reviews, and recommendations from other healthcare providers can provide valuable insights into these high-performing practices.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine, encompassing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and digital health tools, can significantly improve asthma care, especially in rural areas like 16621. It allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and enabling more frequent check-ins. Telemedicine can be particularly useful for managing chronic conditions like asthma, facilitating medication adjustments, and providing timely interventions when symptoms worsen. Practices that have embraced telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and potentially improved asthma control.

Beyond direct medical care, the availability of mental health resources is essential. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities. Access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, is crucial for addressing these issues and promoting holistic patient care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma management programs are likely to provide more comprehensive and effective care. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals can create a supportive environment for patients.

Broad Top, located in Bedford County, presents a different set of challenges and opportunities regarding primary care accessibility. Assessing primary care availability involves evaluating the number of primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants serving the population. The geographical distribution of these providers is also a critical consideration. Rural areas often face challenges related to healthcare provider shortages. This can lead to longer travel distances for patients to access care, which can be a barrier to seeking timely medical attention, particularly for those with chronic conditions like asthma.

The primary care landscape in Broad Top also needs to be examined in terms of the types of services offered. Comprehensive primary care practices that offer a wide range of services, including preventative care, chronic disease management, and mental health support, are more likely to provide effective asthma care. Practices that are affiliated with larger healthcare systems may have access to more resources and specialists, which can benefit patients with complex asthma needs.

The integration of technology, including telemedicine, is particularly important in Broad Top. Telemedicine can help overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care for patients in remote areas. Practices that have adopted telemedicine can provide virtual consultations, remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, and medication management support. This can lead to improved asthma control and reduced hospitalizations.

The availability of mental health resources is also a crucial factor in Broad Top. Asthma can have a significant impact on a patient's mental well-being, and access to mental health services is essential for addressing these issues. Primary care practices that offer integrated mental health services are better equipped to provide comprehensive care to patients with asthma.

Evaluating the overall ‘Asthma Score’ for both 16621 and Broad Top requires a synthesis of these factors. It's a composite score, not a single number, that reflects the combined influence of physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. Areas with higher physician-to-patient ratios, exemplary practices, robust telemedicine adoption, and accessible mental health services would receive higher scores. The score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

Ultimately, understanding the healthcare landscape in these regions is a dynamic process. Data changes, practices evolve, and new technologies emerge. The insights gleaned from this analysis can be further enriched by utilizing advanced mapping tools.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in 16621 and Broad Top, and to gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to care, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare data, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis. Visit CartoChrome today to discover how their mapping solutions can transform your understanding of healthcare accessibility and improve asthma management in these communities.