16639, Fallentimber, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16639, Fallentimber, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.53 percent of the residents in 16639 has some form of health insurance. 42.83 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.73 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 16639 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 261 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16639. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 315 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,357 health care providers accessible to residents in 16639, Fallentimber, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Fallentimber, PA (ZIP Code 16639)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, within the Fallentimber, PA (ZIP Code 16639) area necessitates a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians, their practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all critical components of effective asthma care. While a definitive "Asthma Score" is complex and requires granular data not readily available, this analysis provides a qualitative ranking and identifies key strengths and weaknesses.

The primary challenge in Fallentimber, as with many rural areas, is the limited availability of primary care physicians. Physician-to-patient ratios are likely higher than the national average, placing a significant strain on existing providers. This scarcity directly impacts access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of chronic conditions like asthma. Longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential difficulties in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship are common consequences. This scarcity, coupled with potential limitations in specialist availability, poses a significant hurdle for optimal asthma control.

Identifying standout practices in Fallentimber is challenging without comprehensive data. However, a practice demonstrating a commitment to asthma care would likely exhibit several characteristics. These include a dedicated asthma management program, incorporating regular pulmonary function testing (spirometry), personalized asthma action plans, and patient education materials. They would also proactively address environmental triggers, offering guidance on allergen avoidance and home modifications. Furthermore, a practice actively participating in continuing medical education (CME) on asthma management and incorporating the latest guidelines would be a strong indicator of quality.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in bridging the healthcare gap in rural areas. Its implementation can significantly improve asthma care by providing remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments. A practice actively utilizing telemedicine platforms for asthma patients would be highly ranked. This includes offering virtual check-ins, allowing patients to monitor their symptoms and share data remotely, and facilitating communication with specialists. Telemedicine can also be invaluable for providing educational resources and support groups, empowering patients to take a more active role in their asthma management.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but plays a vital role in asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. A practice that recognizes this connection and provides access to mental health services, either in-house or through referrals, would be highly valued. This could involve offering counseling, support groups, or integrating mental health screenings into routine asthma care. Addressing the psychological impact of asthma is essential for achieving optimal disease control and improving patient well-being.

The overall ranking for asthma care in Fallentimber, PA (ZIP Code 16639) is likely moderate, leaning towards the lower end. The primary limiting factor is the scarcity of primary care physicians. This scarcity impacts access to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and poor asthma control. While the presence of a few standout practices could elevate the score, the overall healthcare landscape presents significant challenges. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources, if present, would be crucial factors in improving the ranking.

To improve the asthma care landscape in Fallentimber, several strategies could be implemented. Increasing the number of primary care physicians through recruitment and retention initiatives is paramount. Supporting practices in adopting telemedicine technologies and providing training for their implementation is crucial. Encouraging the integration of mental health services into asthma care is essential. Community outreach programs focused on asthma education and awareness could also play a vital role.

Furthermore, collaborations between healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations can enhance asthma management. This could involve developing asthma action plans for children in schools, providing training for school nurses, and organizing community-based asthma support groups. Such collaborative efforts can create a more comprehensive and patient-centered approach to asthma care.

The analysis also considers the potential impact of socioeconomic factors. Poverty, lack of access to transportation, and limited health literacy can exacerbate asthma symptoms and hinder effective management. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving asthma outcomes in Fallentimber. This could involve providing assistance with transportation to medical appointments, offering financial assistance for medications, and providing culturally sensitive health education materials.

The availability of specialist care, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, is another important consideration. The proximity to specialists, or the ability to access them through telemedicine, can significantly impact the quality of asthma care. The ability to consult with specialists for complex cases and provide specialized treatments is essential for patients with severe asthma.

In conclusion, while specific data is limited, the asthma care landscape in Fallentimber, PA (ZIP Code 16639) faces significant challenges due to the scarcity of primary care physicians. Addressing this issue, promoting telemedicine adoption, integrating mental health resources, and fostering community collaboration are crucial steps toward improving asthma care.

To gain a more detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Fallentimber, including the locations of healthcare providers and the availability of resources, explore the interactive maps and data visualizations offered by CartoChrome. Their platform can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare services and aid in identifying areas for improvement.