16835, Fleming, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16835, Fleming, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.06 percent of the residents in 16835 has some form of health insurance. 29.46 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 84.88 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 16835 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 55 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16835. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 49 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,834 health care providers accessible to residents in 16835, Fleming, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16835 and Primary Care in Fleming

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP code 16835, encompassing the town of Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, and specifically examines primary care availability in the nearby community of Fleming. The objective is to assess the accessibility and quality of care for asthma sufferers, considering factors such as physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis is crucial because asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that requires consistent management and access to timely medical intervention.

The physician-to-patient ratio in 16835 presents a critical starting point. While precise figures fluctuate, the rural nature of the area often translates to a lower density of primary care physicians and specialists, including pulmonologists, who are essential for asthma management. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, increased travel distances, and potential delays in diagnosis or treatment adjustments. Analyzing the availability of pediatricians is particularly important, given the prevalence of asthma in children. The ratio, therefore, is a key indicator of access.

Fleming, as a neighboring community, further complicates the picture. Residents there may rely on Philipsburg for primary care services. The distance and ease of travel between these two locations, alongside public transportation options, directly influence access. If Fleming experiences a significant shortage of primary care providers, the burden on Philipsburg’s resources increases, potentially exacerbating access issues for all residents within the broader geographic area.

Identifying "standout practices" is essential for understanding best practices. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma care often possess several key characteristics. These include a dedicated asthma educator, a comprehensive asthma action plan for each patient, regular monitoring of lung function, and a proactive approach to environmental control measures. Such practices might also participate in quality improvement initiatives or collaborate with local hospitals and specialists to provide coordinated care. Further, the practice's ability to offer after-hours care or urgent appointments is a significant advantage for asthma patients.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in improving asthma care accessibility, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially enabling more frequent check-ins. This is especially valuable for medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and education about asthma management. Assessing the extent of telemedicine use by practices in 16835, including the types of platforms used and the services offered, is an important part of the analysis. Practices embracing telemedicine may be better positioned to serve a wider patient population and provide more timely care.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they play a vital role. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Identifying the availability of mental health professionals within the 16835 area, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is critical. Furthermore, understanding how primary care practices integrate mental health support into their asthma care plans, such as through referrals or on-site counseling, is crucial for holistic patient care.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialized asthma care. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma may require the expertise of a pulmonologist or allergist. Determining the number of specialists serving the 16835 area, their proximity to patients, and the ease with which patients can access their services is essential. This includes evaluating referral processes and the ability of specialists to collaborate with primary care physicians to ensure coordinated care.

The overall assessment of asthma care in 16835 and primary care availability in Fleming necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of the factors discussed above. This analysis should consider the current healthcare infrastructure, the availability of resources, and the quality of care provided. It is important to note that the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. Any analysis should be updated regularly to reflect changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the evolving needs of the patient population.

The availability of medication and supplies is another important consideration. The analysis should assess the accessibility of pharmacies within the area and the availability of essential asthma medications, such as inhalers and nebulizers. Additionally, the analysis should investigate the availability of resources to help patients afford their medications, such as patient assistance programs or government subsidies.

Finally, the analysis should consider patient education and support programs. These programs can empower patients to take an active role in managing their asthma, leading to improved outcomes. The analysis should assess the availability of asthma education programs, support groups, and educational materials for patients and their families.

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of the asthma care landscape in ZIP code 16835 and the primary care situation in Fleming requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the availability of mental health resources and specialized care. This information is vital for understanding the current state of asthma care and identifying areas for improvement.

Do you want to visualize this data geographically and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access in 16835 and Fleming? Explore the power of spatial analysis with CartoChrome maps. Use the data to create interactive maps and gain insights into the geographic distribution of resources, patient populations, and healthcare disparities.