16738, Lewis Run, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16738, Lewis Run, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 47.26 percent of the residents in 16738 has some form of health insurance. 18.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.79 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 16738 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 260 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16738. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 205 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 363 health care providers accessible to residents in 16738, Lewis Run, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of asthma care within ZIP Code 16738, encompassing Lewis Run, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. We must assess not only the raw number of physicians but also the quality of care provided, the accessibility of that care, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis will consider physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, explore the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components in crafting an effective asthma score.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times, reduced access to care, and potentially, poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. In Lewis Run, a rural community, the physician-to-patient ratio is likely a critical factor. Identifying the precise ratio requires data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and potentially, local hospital systems and private practices. This data should be analyzed to understand the current landscape of primary care availability, specifically for individuals with asthma.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care is paramount. This involves evaluating the practices of physicians and healthcare providers within the ZIP code. Are they adhering to the latest asthma treatment guidelines established by organizations like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Do they employ evidence-based practices, such as regular spirometry testing to assess lung function and personalized asthma action plans? Are they actively involved in patient education, empowering individuals to manage their condition effectively? Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This could involve reviewing patient testimonials, assessing the presence of specialized asthma clinics or certified asthma educators, and examining patient outcomes data, if available. Practices demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive asthma care, including proactive management and patient education, should be recognized.

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care for asthma patients in Lewis Run. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within the ZIP code requires identifying which practices offer telehealth services and evaluating the scope of these services. Are they limited to routine follow-ups, or do they extend to initial consultations and urgent care? The ease of access to telehealth services, including the availability of appropriate technology and insurance coverage, is a key factor in evaluating their impact.

Asthma often co-exists with mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of a comprehensive asthma score. This involves assessing the presence of mental health professionals within the community, the availability of mental health services covered by insurance, and the integration of mental health care into primary care practices. Are primary care physicians trained to screen for mental health conditions, and do they have established referral pathways to mental health specialists? The presence of support groups or educational programs focused on managing asthma and mental health is also a positive indicator.

Analyzing the primary care availability in Lewis Run requires a nuanced approach. It's not simply about counting doctors; it's about understanding the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of the care they provide. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing the adoption of telemedicine, and evaluating the availability of mental health resources. Each of these factors contributes to the overall asthma score, which should reflect the ease with which asthma patients can access and receive high-quality care within their community.

The identification of standout practices can be a complex process. It involves more than just a cursory review of physician profiles. It requires a deeper dive into their practices, including their adherence to asthma treatment guidelines, their use of evidence-based practices, and their commitment to patient education. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, provide personalized asthma action plans, and offer comprehensive support services should be recognized for their commitment to excellence.

Telemedicine offers a significant opportunity to improve asthma care in Lewis Run. By providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers and improve access to care for patients. The adoption of telemedicine is a positive indicator, but the quality and accessibility of these services are equally important. Are the services easy to access, and are they covered by insurance? Are patients comfortable using the technology, and are they receiving adequate support?

The integration of mental health resources is crucial for comprehensive asthma care. Asthma patients often experience anxiety and depression, which can exacerbate their symptoms and negatively impact their quality of life. The availability of mental health professionals, the integration of mental health care into primary care practices, and the presence of support groups or educational programs are all positive indicators.

The final asthma score should reflect the totality of these factors, providing a comprehensive assessment of the quality and accessibility of asthma care in Lewis Run. It should highlight areas of strength and identify areas where improvements are needed. This analysis is not just about assigning a number; it's about understanding the realities of asthma care within the community and identifying opportunities to improve patient outcomes.

To further enhance your understanding of asthma care in Lewis Run and visualize the data, consider exploring the interactive maps and data visualization tools offered by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to analyze geographic data, visualize physician locations, and explore the distribution of healthcare resources within ZIP Code 16738. Visit CartoChrome to gain a deeper understanding of the asthma care landscape and make informed decisions about healthcare access.