16822, Beech Creek, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16822, Beech Creek, Pennsylvania is 13 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.53 percent of the residents in 16822 has some form of health insurance. 40.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.01 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 16822 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 360 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16822. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 320 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 300 health care providers accessible to residents in 16822, Beech Creek, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in 16822 & Primary Care in Beech Creek

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP Code 16822 (State College, PA) and its surrounding areas, with a specific focus on primary care access in Beech Creek. We will examine key factors impacting asthma management, including physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all contributing to an “Asthma Score” assessment. This score, though not a formal numerical rating, represents a qualitative understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in this region.

State College, 16822, is a vibrant community anchored by Pennsylvania State University. This demographic influences the healthcare landscape, with a relatively young and educated population. However, the presence of a large university also means a transient population, potentially affecting continuity of care. The surrounding rural areas, including Beech Creek, present different challenges, primarily concerning access to care.

One of the most crucial elements in asthma management is the physician-to-patient ratio. While precise figures are difficult to obtain without proprietary data, the presence of a major medical center in State College, such as Mount Nittany Medical Center, suggests a potentially favorable ratio within the immediate urban area. However, this advantage may not extend to the more rural communities like Beech Creek. Residents of Beech Creek, therefore, may face longer travel times and potentially greater difficulty securing timely appointments with primary care physicians and specialists, crucial for asthma control. This disparity contributes to a lower “Asthma Score” for Beech Creek residents compared to those in the central State College area.

Standout practices in the 16822 area are likely to be those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. This includes practices that offer: robust patient education programs, readily available spirometry testing (a key diagnostic tool for asthma), and a multidisciplinary approach involving allergists, pulmonologists, and potentially respiratory therapists. Practices that actively participate in asthma research or clinical trials may also be considered exemplary. Identifying these practices requires a deeper dive into individual provider profiles, patient reviews, and the specific services offered. The presence of board-certified allergists and pulmonologists is a strong indicator of quality asthma care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for improving healthcare access, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in the context of asthma care can significantly enhance the “Asthma Score.” Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and even virtual asthma education sessions. This is particularly valuable for Beech Creek residents, reducing the need for lengthy travel to State College for routine check-ups. The availability of telemedicine services, and the ease of access to these services, significantly impacts the overall quality of care. Practices that proactively integrate telemedicine into their asthma management protocols will likely achieve higher patient satisfaction and improved outcomes.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and effective management requires addressing both physical and psychological needs. The availability of mental health resources is therefore a crucial component of a high “Asthma Score.” This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening into their asthma management protocols, and readily refer patients to appropriate mental health professionals, are demonstrating a commitment to holistic care. The closer and more accessible the mental health resources are, the better the overall asthma management.

Primary care availability in Beech Creek is a critical factor determining the “Asthma Score” for residents. Limited access to primary care physicians translates to delayed diagnoses, inadequate management of asthma triggers, and potentially more frequent emergency room visits. The presence of a primary care physician willing to actively manage asthma, and to coordinate care with specialists when necessary, is essential. The availability of after-hours care options, and the ease of contacting a physician for urgent concerns, further contributes to a higher score.

The challenge in Beech Creek is likely to be the limited number of primary care physicians. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments and a potential for reduced continuity of care. The lack of specialized asthma care within Beech Creek itself further exacerbates the problem, necessitating travel to State College for specialized services. This geographical barrier negatively affects the “Asthma Score” for Beech Creek residents.

The “Asthma Score” is also affected by the availability of readily accessible information. Asthma patients need easy access to educational materials, information on local triggers (such as pollen counts and air quality), and resources for managing their condition. Practices that provide patients with comprehensive educational materials, and actively engage in patient education, will contribute to a better patient experience and improved outcomes.

The quality of asthma care is not solely determined by the availability of physicians and resources. Patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans are also critical. Practices that employ strategies to improve patient adherence, such as regular follow-up appointments, medication reminders, and personalized education, will contribute to a higher “Asthma Score.”

In conclusion, the “Asthma Score” for residents in 16822 is likely to be higher than for those in Beech Creek, primarily due to better access to primary care, specialists, and a wider range of healthcare resources. The integration of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the commitment of practices to comprehensive asthma management all contribute to the overall score. Beech Creek residents face greater challenges due to geographic limitations and potentially fewer healthcare options.

To gain a more precise understanding of the healthcare landscape, including physician locations, practice details, and demographic data related to asthma prevalence, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide valuable insights into the distribution of healthcare resources and help patients find the best possible care in the 16822 area and beyond.