16733, Hazel Hurst, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16733, Hazel Hurst, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16733 has some form of health insurance. 79.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 26.52 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 16733 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16733. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 118 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 354 health care providers accessible to residents in 16733, Hazel Hurst, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below assesses asthma care and primary care access in Hazel Hurst, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16733), focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and resources. This evaluation aims to provide insights into the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing asthma in this specific geographic area. The scope considers the limited resources and rural nature of the region.

Assessing the healthcare landscape in a rural area like Hazel Hurst requires a nuanced approach. The primary challenge is often limited physician availability, which directly impacts patient access to care. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial indicators. While specific, up-to-the-minute ratios are difficult to obtain without proprietary data, publicly available sources like the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates and identify areas designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). If Hazel Hurst or its surrounding areas are designated as HPSAs, it signals a significant concern regarding the availability of primary care physicians, including those who may also treat asthma.

The availability of primary care physicians is a cornerstone of asthma management. Regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education are all critical components of controlling the condition. Limited access to primary care can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and increased reliance on emergency room visits, which are often less effective and more costly. The presence of specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is also a significant factor. However, in rural areas, these specialists are often located in larger towns or cities, necessitating travel for patients.

Examining the characteristics of local practices is vital. Are there any standout practices in the area? This requires looking beyond simple physician counts. Considerations include the size of the practice, the range of services offered, and the practice's commitment to patient education and chronic disease management. Does a particular practice have a dedicated asthma clinic or program? Does it offer patient education materials, such as asthma action plans, in multiple languages if necessary? These factors can significantly impact the quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial element in bridging the gap in healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialists who may not be physically present in Hazel Hurst. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring, are likely to provide better care for asthma patients. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services, including the types of platforms used and the range of services offered, is essential.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of chronic disease management, but they are critical for asthma patients. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. Examining the availability of mental health resources, including the types of services offered and the ease of access, is important.

Specific practices in the area might offer unique programs. For example, a practice might collaborate with local pharmacies to provide medication adherence support or partner with schools to educate children and their families about asthma management. Some practices might participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on reducing asthma exacerbations or improving patient outcomes. Identifying these specific programs can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

The patient experience is also a critical factor. This includes the ease of scheduling appointments, the wait times in the waiting room, and the overall communication between the physician and the patient. Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Analyzing patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews can help to identify practices that are highly regarded by their patients.

The availability of ancillary services, such as respiratory therapy and pulmonary function testing, is another important consideration. These services are essential for diagnosing and managing asthma. Practices that offer these services on-site can provide more convenient and comprehensive care. Assessing the availability of these services and the ease of access is essential.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also important. EHRs can improve care coordination, facilitate the sharing of information between providers, and enable the use of clinical decision support tools. Practices that have implemented EHRs are likely to provide more efficient and effective care. Assessing the adoption of EHRs and the extent to which they are used to support patient care is essential.

Finally, the cost of care is a significant factor for patients. This includes the cost of physician visits, medications, and other services. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer affordable payment options are likely to be more accessible to patients. Assessing the cost of care and the availability of financial assistance programs is essential.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma care landscape in Hazel Hurst requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the patient experience. By considering these factors, it is possible to gain a clear understanding of the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing asthma in this specific geographic area.

To visualize and analyze the spatial distribution of healthcare resources and their impact on asthma care in Hazel Hurst and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a powerful visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, enabling a more in-depth understanding of the healthcare landscape.