16689, Waterfall, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16689, Waterfall, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.58 percent of the residents in 16689 has some form of health insurance. 42.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.59 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 16689 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 69 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16689. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 72 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 63 health care providers accessible to residents in 16689, Waterfall, Pennsylvania.

This analysis focuses on asthma care within ZIP code 16689, specifically Waterfall, Pennsylvania, evaluating primary care availability and related resources. The goal is to provide an informed overview of the healthcare landscape for asthma patients, considering physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support.

Waterfall, nestled within ZIP code 16689, is a rural community. This geographical context significantly shapes the healthcare environment. Primary care access is often a critical determinant of asthma management success. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing treatment, and regular check-ups, all crucial for controlling asthma symptoms and preventing exacerbations.

Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is a starting point. The ideal ratio varies depending on the specific population’s needs and the resources available. In a rural area like Waterfall, a lower physician-to-patient ratio might indicate potential challenges in accessing care. Data from state and national sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Department of Health & Human Services, would be crucial for determining the precise ratio in 16689. A low ratio could suggest longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances to see a doctor, and potentially, a strain on existing healthcare providers.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is essential. Practices excelling in asthma care often demonstrate specific characteristics. These include a multidisciplinary approach, involving PCPs, nurses, and possibly respiratory therapists. They might also have specialized asthma clinics or dedicated staff trained in asthma management. Furthermore, practices that actively engage in patient education, providing information on triggers, medication adherence, and self-management techniques, are highly valued. Reviews from patients and the practice’s accreditation status from organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can offer insights into the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers a promising solution for overcoming geographical barriers to healthcare access in rural areas. Practices utilizing telemedicine platforms can provide virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living far from medical facilities. Evaluating the extent of telemedicine adoption within 16689 involves determining which practices offer these services, the types of services provided, and the patient experience with these technologies.

Mental health resources are often overlooked, yet they play a significant role in asthma management. Asthma can be a chronic condition that impacts quality of life, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care programs are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This might involve having mental health professionals on staff, providing referrals to therapists, or offering support groups. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources within 16689 is crucial for a comprehensive evaluation of asthma care.

The specifics of individual practices are paramount. Some practices might excel in patient education, offering comprehensive asthma management programs. Others may be pioneers in telemedicine, providing convenient access to care. Some might have strong relationships with local pharmacies, ensuring patients can easily obtain their medications. Understanding the nuances of each practice is key to providing a complete picture of asthma care availability. This involves researching each practice’s website, contacting them directly, and consulting patient reviews.

The challenges are considerable. Rural areas often face shortages of healthcare professionals. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and increased pressure on existing providers. Furthermore, access to specialized services, such as pulmonologists, may be limited, requiring patients to travel further for care. Another challenge is the lack of reliable internet connectivity, which can hinder the adoption of telemedicine. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals, expanding telemedicine infrastructure, and increasing awareness of available resources.

The evaluation process must consider the socioeconomic factors of the community. Income levels, insurance coverage, and access to transportation can all influence a patient’s ability to access and adhere to asthma treatment plans. Practices that are sensitive to these factors and offer financial assistance programs or transportation support are better positioned to serve their patients effectively.

The role of community health initiatives is also significant. Local health departments and community organizations often play a vital role in asthma education, prevention, and management. These initiatives might include asthma awareness campaigns, free asthma screenings, and support groups. Assessing the presence and effectiveness of these initiatives is crucial for understanding the overall healthcare ecosystem in 16689.

The long-term success of asthma management depends on a collaborative approach. This involves active participation from patients, healthcare providers, and the community. Patients must be empowered to take an active role in their care, understanding their triggers, adhering to medication regimens, and seeking timely medical attention when needed. Healthcare providers must provide comprehensive care, including diagnosis, treatment, education, and ongoing monitoring. The community must support these efforts through awareness campaigns, resource allocation, and advocacy.

The information presented here is an overview. A thorough, up-to-date analysis requires detailed data collection and ongoing monitoring. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, and the availability of resources and the quality of care can change over time.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in 16689, including the locations of practices, pharmacies, and community resources, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive visualization of the healthcare resources available in the area, making it easier to understand access to care and identify potential gaps.