16647, Hesston, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16647, Hesston, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.44 percent of the residents in 16647 has some form of health insurance. 34.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.46 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 16647 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 226 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16647. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 153 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,298 health care providers accessible to residents in 16647, Hesston, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of asthma care within ZIP code 16647, encompassing the town of Hesston, requires a multifaceted approach. We will assess the quality of care provided by physicians, specifically primary care providers, considering factors like patient-to-physician ratios, the presence of exemplary practices, the utilization of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in effectively managing asthma.

Hesston, Pennsylvania, a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas, including potential shortages of healthcare professionals and limited access to specialized care. Evaluating the asthma care landscape requires a critical examination of these potential constraints.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of access to care. A high ratio, meaning a large number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially, a less thorough assessment of asthma symptoms and management strategies. In a rural setting like Hesston, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely to be a critical factor. The availability of primary care physicians, in particular, is paramount, as they often serve as the first point of contact for asthma patients.

Identifying standout practices involves looking beyond simple metrics. We need to assess how effectively physicians are implementing evidence-based asthma management guidelines. This includes a review of patient education materials, the use of asthma action plans, and the regular assessment of asthma control. Practices that proactively engage patients in their care, provide comprehensive education, and utilize standardized protocols are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. Furthermore, we must consider the patient experience. Are patients satisfied with their care? Do they feel heard and understood by their physicians? Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews can provide valuable insights into this aspect.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial element in the modern healthcare landscape, particularly in rural communities. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely. For asthma patients, this can include virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and medication management. The extent to which physicians in Hesston have embraced telemedicine will significantly impact the accessibility and convenience of asthma care. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring devices, and online patient portals are likely to be better equipped to manage asthma effectively.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is well-established. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as psychologists and therapists, who can provide support and counseling to patients struggling with the psychological effects of asthma. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma management programs are likely to provide more holistic and effective care. This integration could involve on-site mental health professionals, referrals to local therapists, or the use of telehealth platforms to connect patients with mental health providers.

Specific examples of exceptional practices are difficult to pinpoint without a direct audit of the healthcare providers in the area. However, we can formulate a hypothetical profile of a high-performing practice. This practice would likely have a reasonable physician-to-patient ratio, ensuring adequate time for each patient. It would implement standardized asthma management protocols, including the use of asthma action plans and regular assessments of asthma control. The practice would proactively educate patients about their condition, empowering them to manage their symptoms effectively. They would embrace telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options. Finally, the practice would prioritize the mental health of its patients, providing access to mental health resources or integrating mental health services into their care model.

Assessing primary care availability in Hesston requires a close examination of the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas. We need to consider the types of primary care providers available, including family physicians, internists, and pediatricians. The geographic distribution of these providers is also important. Are they clustered in one area, or are they dispersed throughout the community? This distribution can impact access to care, particularly for patients who may have limited transportation options.

Beyond the raw numbers of physicians, we must also evaluate the capacity of these providers to meet the needs of the community. This includes assessing the availability of appointment slots, the wait times for appointments, and the hours of operation. Practices with extended hours or weekend appointments may be more accessible to patients with busy schedules. Furthermore, we need to consider the insurance plans accepted by these providers. Do they accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare? This is crucial for ensuring that all residents of Hesston have access to care.

The overall assessment of asthma care in Hesston, ZIP code 16647, will be a complex evaluation. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. The availability of primary care physicians, in particular, is a critical factor.

To gain a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Hesston, including physician locations, patient demographics, and resource distribution, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a powerful visual representation of the data, allowing for a more in-depth analysis of asthma care and primary care availability.