16802, University Park, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16802, University Park, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.31 percent of the residents in 16802 has some form of health insurance. 5.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 94.14 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 16802 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,179 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16802. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,252 health care providers accessible to residents in 16802, University Park, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: University Park, PA (ZIP Code 16802)

Analyzing asthma care within ZIP Code 16802, encompassing University Park, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the often-overlooked connection to mental health. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" ranking, evaluating the quality and accessibility of asthma care in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any asthma care assessment lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In University Park, the presence of a major university, Penn State, significantly influences the healthcare landscape. The university's health services undoubtedly play a role, but the broader community's needs must also be addressed. A crucial metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures fluctuate, a healthy ratio ensures that patients can readily access appointments and receive timely care. Areas with a lower ratio, meaning more patients per physician, may experience longer wait times and reduced access. This directly impacts the ability to manage asthma effectively, as prompt intervention during exacerbations is vital.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively monitor lung function demonstrate a higher standard of care. These practices typically utilize spirometry to assess lung function and educate patients on triggers and medication management. A practice's commitment to these elements contributes significantly to its asthma score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in managing chronic conditions like asthma. The adoption of telemedicine in 16802 is a key factor. Practices utilizing telehealth platforms for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and remote monitoring are likely to achieve a higher score. Telemedicine reduces the burden of travel, especially beneficial for patients with breathing difficulties, and increases the frequency of patient-physician interactions. It also facilitates quicker access to care during urgent situations.

Standout practices in this area are those that demonstrate a clear focus on asthma management. This includes specialized training for physicians and staff, dedicated asthma clinics, and a commitment to staying abreast of the latest treatment guidelines. They would likely have established protocols for managing asthma exacerbations and a robust system for patient education. Such practices would be considered high-scoring.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, often coexists with mental health challenges. Anxiety and depression can worsen asthma symptoms, and vice versa. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive asthma score. Practices that integrate mental health screenings and offer referrals to mental health professionals are providing a more holistic approach to patient care. This integration can be achieved through on-site counselors, partnerships with local mental health organizations, or simply by routinely screening for mental health concerns and providing referrals.

The Asthma Score ranking also considers the availability of specialized care. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) is essential for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The proximity and accessibility of pulmonology services significantly impact the overall score. This includes the ease of referral processes and the availability of specialized testing, such as allergy testing, to identify and manage triggers.

Furthermore, the responsiveness of practices to patient needs is a vital factor. This includes appointment availability, after-hours care options, and the ease of communication with the physician's office. Practices that are readily accessible and responsive to patient concerns earn a higher score. This responsiveness can be measured by patient satisfaction surveys and the practice's track record in addressing patient concerns.

The overall Asthma Score is a composite of these factors. A high score reflects a healthcare environment that prioritizes patient access, comprehensive care, technological integration, and the integration of mental health resources. A lower score indicates areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing physician availability, enhancing telemedicine adoption, or integrating mental health services.

In conclusion, assessing asthma care in 16802 requires a detailed examination of various factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized care are all critical. Practices that excel in these areas will receive a higher Asthma Score, indicating a commitment to providing comprehensive and accessible asthma care.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in 16802, including the locations of practices, physician availability, and other relevant data points, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. Their platform allows you to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, providing a more comprehensive understanding of asthma care in University Park.