16731, Eldred, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16731, Eldred, Pennsylvania is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.58 percent of the residents in 16731 has some form of health insurance. 45.21 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.58 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 16731 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 431 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16731. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 559 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 393 health care providers accessible to residents in 16731, Eldred, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Eldred, PA (ZIP Code 16731)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within Eldred, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16731), requires a multi-faceted approach. An "Asthma Score" framework, though not a standardized metric, allows for a comprehensive evaluation of factors impacting asthma management. This analysis considers physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all crucial for effective asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Eldred is a critical starting point. Precise data on the number of practicing physicians, particularly primary care providers (PCPs), within the ZIP code is essential. Publicly available resources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide this information. However, even with these resources, the accuracy can be challenging. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, within a reasonable commuting distance is also vital, as these specialists often play a key role in managing complex asthma cases. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for PCPs, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hinder timely diagnosis and treatment.

Primary care availability in Eldred is a key indicator of the overall health of the community. The number of PCPs actively accepting new patients directly impacts access to care. This includes family medicine physicians, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians. The presence of urgent care clinics or walk-in clinics can provide immediate care for asthma exacerbations, but they should not replace the consistent care provided by a PCP. Assessing the types of insurance accepted by local providers is also crucial. Limited insurance acceptance can restrict access for certain populations, potentially exacerbating health disparities.

Identifying standout practices in Eldred requires evaluating several factors. Patient reviews, available through platforms like Healthgrades or Zocdoc, offer insights into patient experiences. Focus on reviews that mention asthma management specifically. Look for practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and demonstrate a commitment to ongoing monitoring and management. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a significant positive indicator. These educators can provide valuable support and guidance to patients.

Telemedicine adoption is a growing trend that can significantly improve asthma care accessibility, especially in rural areas like Eldred. Practices that offer telehealth consultations can provide convenient follow-up appointments, medication management, and education. Telemedicine can also facilitate remote monitoring of lung function and symptoms. This is particularly beneficial for patients with poorly controlled asthma or those living in remote locations. The availability of telehealth services, including the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), should be carefully evaluated.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked but is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Practices that have established relationships with mental health professionals, either within the practice or through referrals, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling or therapy, can help patients manage the psychological impact of asthma, which, in turn, can improve asthma control. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns and provide appropriate referrals are highly desirable.

The presence of readily available asthma medications is also a factor. The availability of local pharmacies and their ability to fill prescriptions promptly is crucial. The existence of programs that assist patients with medication costs, such as patient assistance programs or local charities, can also improve access to care.

The analysis of the "Asthma Score" for Eldred, PA, would involve gathering data on the aforementioned factors. This data would then be synthesized to create a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape. The score would not be a single number but rather a composite of various metrics, each weighted based on its importance. This weighting would be subjective, reflecting the relative importance of each factor in achieving optimal asthma management.

For example, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio, limited telemedicine adoption, and no mental health resources would likely receive a lower score. Conversely, a practice with a good physician-to-patient ratio, extensive telemedicine capabilities, and integrated mental health services would receive a higher score.

The ultimate goal of this analysis is to identify areas where healthcare resources are lacking and to highlight best practices. This information can then be used to inform healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients.

Understanding the healthcare landscape in Eldred, PA, requires detailed geographic information. The distribution of physicians, the location of pharmacies, and the accessibility of healthcare facilities are all spatial factors. To visualize and analyze this data effectively, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Eldred, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of the factors impacting asthma management.

**To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Eldred, PA, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, explore CartoChrome maps. See how these maps can help you better understand the accessibility and quality of asthma care in your community.**