16830, Clearfield, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16830, Clearfield, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.70 percent of the residents in 16830 has some form of health insurance. 52.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.12 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 16830 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,171 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16830. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,724 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 677 health care providers accessible to residents in 16830, Clearfield, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16830 & Primary Care in Clearfield

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 16830 (primarily representing the Philipsburg area) and assesses the broader landscape of primary care resources in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, with a specific focus on factors relevant to asthma management. We will evaluate physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and explore the integration of mental health resources, culminating in a call to action for advanced mapping tools.

Assessing the asthma-related healthcare landscape begins with understanding the density of PCPs. In ZIP code 16830, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. Publicly available data, such as that provided by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can provide a baseline. However, this data often reflects broader county-level statistics, making it essential to supplement this with local observations. This includes identifying the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and estimating the population they serve. A low ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can create access challenges for patients, especially those with chronic conditions like asthma requiring regular check-ups and medication management. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests potentially better access.

Within the Clearfield area, the availability of primary care extends beyond the immediate ZIP code. Patients may travel to surrounding towns or cities for care. The analysis must consider the geographic distribution of PCPs across the county and the ease of access for residents of Clearfield. Factors like public transportation, the availability of appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans all influence accessibility. The presence of urgent care clinics and walk-in facilities also plays a role, offering alternative points of access for acute asthma exacerbations.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves looking beyond simple physician counts and evaluating the quality of care provided. Factors to consider include: the practice's experience in treating asthma, the use of evidence-based guidelines for asthma management, and patient satisfaction scores. Reviews on platforms like Healthgrades or Vitals, while not always fully representative, can provide insights into patient experiences. Practices actively involved in asthma education, offering patient support groups, or providing asthma action plans demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), often exhibit a higher standard of care.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in modern healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide medication refills via telemedicine can greatly improve access to care, especially for those living in rural areas or facing mobility challenges. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer more flexible appointment scheduling and reduce the burden of travel for patients with asthma. The analysis should investigate which practices in the area offer telemedicine services, the types of services provided, and the technology platforms utilized. The ease of use of these platforms and the availability of technical support are also essential considerations.

The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care is crucial. The analysis should explore whether PCPs in the area have access to mental health professionals, whether they screen patients for mental health conditions, and whether they offer referrals to mental health services. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or strong referral networks, are better equipped to provide holistic care for patients with asthma. This integration can lead to improved asthma control and overall well-being.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is essential. While PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for asthma management, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma may require specialized care. The analysis should identify the availability of these specialists in the Clearfield area and assess the ease of referral from PCPs. The coordination of care between PCPs and specialists is crucial for optimal asthma management. This includes the timely exchange of patient information, the development of shared care plans, and the consistent communication between healthcare providers.

The analysis also needs to consider the availability of asthma education resources in the community. This includes patient education materials, asthma support groups, and educational programs offered by local hospitals or health organizations. Practices that actively promote asthma education empower patients to manage their condition effectively. This can lead to improved adherence to medication regimens, reduced asthma exacerbations, and improved quality of life.

Finally, the analysis should consider the impact of socioeconomic factors on asthma care. Factors such as poverty, lack of insurance, and housing conditions can significantly impact asthma control. The analysis should assess whether PCPs in the area are aware of these factors and whether they offer resources or referrals to address them. This may include providing information on financial assistance programs, connecting patients with social services, and advocating for improved housing conditions.

By combining data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and access to specialized care, a comprehensive asthma score can be developed. This score would provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 16830 and Clearfield, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in asthma management resources. This analysis can inform healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers, leading to improved access to care and better outcomes for individuals with asthma.

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