16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.59 percent of the residents in 16729 has some form of health insurance. 46.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.76 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 16729 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 162 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16729. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 120 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 397 health care providers accessible to residents in 16729, Duke Center, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Duke Center (16729) Primary Care Landscape

Analyzing the primary care landscape in and around Duke Center, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16729), requires a nuanced approach, particularly when considering the prevalence and management of asthma. The following analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating factors crucial for asthma patients, including physician availability, practice characteristics, and access to supportive resources. This evaluation is framed within the context of primary care, the cornerstone of asthma management.

The foundation of any asthma score lies in access. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio within the specified geographic area. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in rural areas like Duke Center often reveals a lower density of primary care physicians compared to urban centers. This can create significant challenges for patients seeking timely appointments, follow-up care, and ongoing asthma management. The availability of primary care physicians, including general practitioners, family medicine doctors, and internal medicine specialists, directly impacts a patient’s ability to receive appropriate asthma care.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. Standout practices in the area likely demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based asthma management. This includes adherence to national guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and patient education. Practices excelling in asthma care typically employ standardized protocols for spirometry testing, a crucial diagnostic tool for assessing lung function. They also provide comprehensive asthma action plans, tailored to individual patient needs, and actively monitor patients’ asthma control through regular check-ups and medication adjustments. These practices are often characterized by a multidisciplinary approach, potentially involving respiratory therapists and asthma educators.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role, especially in areas with limited physician access. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, remotely monitor patients’ symptoms, and provide medication refills can significantly improve asthma management. Practices embracing telemedicine offer patients greater flexibility and convenience, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for routine follow-ups. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with well-controlled asthma who require ongoing monitoring. The availability of telehealth services contributes positively to the overall Asthma Score.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, exacerbating symptoms and hindering effective management. Therefore, access to mental health resources is a crucial component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals to qualified professionals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This includes providing access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can address the psychological aspects of living with asthma. The integration of mental health support is a significant factor in improving the Asthma Score.

Specific practices within the 16729 ZIP code warrant individual assessment. Researching the specific offerings of each practice is essential. This involves investigating their adherence to asthma guidelines, the availability of spirometry testing, the presence of asthma educators, and their telemedicine capabilities. Additionally, understanding the referral network for mental health services is critical. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to asthma management, patient education, and mental health support will naturally score higher on the Asthma Score.

The "Asthma Score" for primary care availability in Duke Center is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment influenced by various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by existing practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall score. The score is also impacted by the specific characteristics of each practice. Practices with a strong focus on patient education, individualized asthma action plans, and proactive symptom management will undoubtedly score higher.

The challenges of providing adequate primary care in a rural area like Duke Center are undeniable. However, the adoption of innovative approaches, such as telemedicine and integrated mental health services, can mitigate some of these challenges. Practices that prioritize patient-centered care, embrace technology, and actively collaborate with other healthcare professionals are best positioned to improve the Asthma Score and provide optimal care for asthma patients.

To gain a more granular understanding of the primary care landscape in Duke Center and its surrounding areas, including specific practice locations, physician profiles, and service offerings, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools.
For a comprehensive visualization of physician locations, practice characteristics, and potential gaps in care, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, enabling a deeper understanding of the primary care landscape and facilitating informed decision-making for both patients and providers.