16667, Osterburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16667, Osterburg, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.79 percent of the residents in 16667 has some form of health insurance. 45.96 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.43 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 16667 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 394 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16667. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 292 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 491 health care providers accessible to residents in 16667, Osterburg, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Osterburg, PA (ZIP Code 16667)

Analyzing the quality of asthma care within Osterburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16667), requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," considers primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in this specific geographic area. This analysis does not provide an actual "score" but rather an assessment of key factors influencing asthma care.

Primary care availability forms the foundation of effective asthma management. Osterburg, a relatively rural area, may face challenges in this regard. The number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the ZIP code is a critical starting point. Determining the patient-to-physician ratio provides an initial understanding of accessibility. A high ratio (more patients per physician) can indicate potential difficulties in securing timely appointments and consistent care. This necessitates investigating the average wait times for appointments, both for routine check-ups and for acute asthma exacerbations.

Further, the geographic distribution of PCPs within the ZIP code is important. Are practices clustered in one area, potentially creating access issues for residents in more remote locations? The presence of urgent care facilities or walk-in clinics can partially offset the limitations of PCP availability. These facilities often provide immediate care for acute asthma symptoms, acting as a crucial safety net. However, reliance on urgent care should not replace the importance of ongoing, comprehensive care from a PCP familiar with the patient's medical history.

Physician-to-patient ratios, while a useful metric, don't tell the whole story. The quality of care provided by the PCPs is equally vital. Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code requires a deeper dive. This involves examining patient reviews, assessing the practice's adherence to established asthma guidelines (such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program), and evaluating the availability of specialized asthma services. Does the practice offer spirometry testing (a lung function test)? Do they provide patient education on asthma triggers and management strategies? Do they have dedicated asthma educators or nurses on staff?

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor. Telemedicine, including video consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve asthma management, particularly in rural areas where access to in-person care can be challenging. The ability to have virtual appointments for medication refills, symptom assessments, and education can improve patient adherence to treatment plans. This analysis will need to determine the extent to which telemedicine is utilized by PCPs in Osterburg. Are virtual appointments readily available? Do practices offer remote monitoring devices to track lung function or environmental triggers?

Mental health resources play a significant role in asthma management. Asthma can be a chronic condition that significantly impacts a patient's quality of life. The emotional burden of managing symptoms, potential limitations on activities, and the stress associated with asthma attacks can contribute to anxiety and depression. A comprehensive asthma care plan must address the mental health needs of patients. This analysis needs to explore the availability of mental health services within Osterburg and the extent to which PCPs are connected to these resources. Do practices screen patients for anxiety and depression? Are they able to refer patients to therapists or counselors specializing in chronic illness?

The integration of mental health services into asthma care can significantly improve patient outcomes. This includes not only access to mental health professionals but also the integration of mental health considerations into asthma management plans. This might involve teaching patients coping mechanisms for stress management, providing education on the link between asthma and mental health, and ensuring that patients have access to appropriate medication and therapy.

Another important factor to consider is the availability of specialized asthma care. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, some patients may require the expertise of an allergist or pulmonologist. The proximity of these specialists to Osterburg is crucial. Are there allergists or pulmonologists within a reasonable driving distance? If not, this could create access barriers for patients with more complex asthma cases.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the socioeconomic factors that can influence asthma outcomes. These include factors such as income, housing quality, and access to transportation. Low-income individuals may face challenges in affording medications, maintaining a healthy living environment, and accessing healthcare services. The analysis should identify any community programs or resources that address these socioeconomic barriers.

The analysis should also consider the presence of environmental factors that can trigger asthma symptoms. This includes air quality, pollen counts, and the presence of allergens in the home. Public health data on air quality and pollen levels in Osterburg should be reviewed. The analysis should also consider the availability of resources to help patients identify and control environmental triggers in their homes, such as information on mold remediation or allergen-proof bedding.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of asthma care in Osterburg (ZIP Code 16667) requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the integration of these factors into a holistic approach to patient care. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifies areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including the location of PCPs, specialists, pharmacies, and mental health providers, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of healthcare services within Osterburg and the surrounding areas.