16749, Smethport, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16749, Smethport, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.95 percent of the residents in 16749 has some form of health insurance. 42.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.74 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 16749 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 966 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16749. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 812 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 309 health care providers accessible to residents in 16749, Smethport, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Smethport, PA (ZIP Code 16749)

This analysis delves into the asthma care landscape within Smethport, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16749), focusing on primary care physician availability, the quality of care, and the resources available to patients. We aim to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective asthma management. This score is not a numerical grade but a comprehensive evaluation of the local healthcare ecosystem.

Smethport, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its relatively small population and geographic isolation can impact access to specialized medical services, including pulmonologists and allergists, who play a vital role in asthma care. The analysis will consider these factors.

**Primary Care Physician Availability & Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible primary care. The availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely diagnoses, establish care plans, and manage chronic conditions like asthma. In Smethport, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed care. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) will be essential to determine the current physician-to-patient ratio within the 16749 ZIP code. This ratio will influence the Asthma Score significantly.

**Standout Practices & Quality of Care:**

Identifying practices that excel in asthma care is crucial. This involves examining the practices' approach to asthma management, including the use of evidence-based guidelines, patient education programs, and the availability of specialized equipment like spirometry. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient-centered care, with a focus on shared decision-making and individualized treatment plans, will receive higher marks. We will look for practices that have implemented asthma action plans, offer regular follow-up appointments, and actively monitor patient outcomes. This includes assessing how well these practices coordinate care with specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, if they are available within a reasonable distance. The Asthma Score will reflect the quality of care based on these factors.

**Telemedicine Adoption & its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address the geographic challenges of rural healthcare. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Smethport is a key consideration. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. Practices that have embraced telemedicine technologies, such as secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring devices, will be viewed favorably. This can increase access to care, reduce the need for in-person visits, and improve patient adherence to treatment plans. The Asthma Score will incorporate the extent of telemedicine integration.

**Mental Health Resources & Asthma Management:**

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and vice versa. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a crucial component of comprehensive asthma care. This analysis will assess the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, within Smethport and the surrounding areas. We will also consider whether primary care practices have established referral pathways to mental health services and whether they offer any integrated mental health support within their practices. The Asthma Score will evaluate the accessibility of mental health resources.

**Specific Considerations for Smethport:**

Given Smethport's rural setting, several specific considerations will be incorporated into the Asthma Score. The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) and their training in asthma management will be evaluated. The proximity to hospitals with specialized respiratory care units is another important factor. Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as asthma support groups and educational programs, will be assessed. The score will reflect the availability of these crucial support systems.

**Asthma Score Conclusion:**

The Asthma Score for primary care in Smethport, PA (16749) is not a static number but a dynamic assessment reflecting the current state of asthma care. It is a snapshot of the healthcare landscape, considering physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. The score will be informed by publicly available data, practice websites, and potentially interviews with healthcare providers and community members. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in Smethport, highlighting areas for improvement and promoting better outcomes for patients.

This analysis is designed to be a starting point. It is essential to recognize that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. The availability of services, the adoption of new technologies, and the needs of the community can change over time. Therefore, ongoing monitoring and evaluation are crucial to ensure that patients with asthma receive the best possible care.

**Actionable Insight: Visualize the Data with CartoChrome Maps**

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources and the accessibility of care in Smethport and beyond, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive maps that can help you visualize physician locations, patient demographics, and other relevant data, providing a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape. **Click here to explore CartoChrome maps and unlock valuable insights into your community's healthcare resources.**