16836, Frenchville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16836, Frenchville, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.51 percent of the residents in 16836 has some form of health insurance. 52.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.02 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 16836 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 159 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16836. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 281 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 560 health care providers accessible to residents in 16836, Frenchville, Pennsylvania.

Asthma management within the 16836 ZIP code, encompassing Frenchville, presents a multifaceted challenge. Evaluating the quality of care necessitates an 'Asthma Score' analysis, a hypothetical metric reflecting the accessibility, efficacy, and comprehensiveness of asthma treatment available to residents. This analysis will consider factors like physician density, primary care accessibility, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources. It's important to note that this analysis is based on publicly available data and general assumptions, and a definitive 'Asthma Score' would require access to patient records and detailed practice-specific information.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Frenchville, the geographic isolation and potentially limited population density could impact PCP accessibility. A low physician-to-patient ratio would significantly depress the 'Asthma Score.' This ratio must be considered in conjunction with the broader healthcare landscape of Clearfield County, where Frenchville is located. A PCP shortage, if it exists, forces patients to travel farther for routine check-ups, follow-up appointments, and urgent care related to asthma exacerbations. This travel burden can negatively affect adherence to treatment plans and increase the risk of hospitalizations.

Further complicating the matter is the potential for specialist availability. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, patients with moderate to severe asthma often require the expertise of pulmonologists or allergists. The proximity of such specialists to Frenchville is critical. If patients must travel long distances to see a specialist, it adds another layer of complexity to their care. This distance factor also impacts the 'Asthma Score,' reflecting the difficulty of receiving specialized asthma care.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of care provided by individual practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating their adherence to asthma guidelines, patient satisfaction scores, and the utilization of advanced treatment modalities. Some practices may excel in patient education, empowering individuals to manage their asthma effectively. Others might have robust systems for proactively identifying and managing asthma triggers in the patient's environment. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a significant positive indicator. Practices that actively participate in asthma research or clinical trials would also receive higher marks.

The adoption of telemedicine offers a promising avenue for improving asthma care in rural areas like Frenchville. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, facilitating routine check-ups, medication adjustments, and symptom monitoring. It reduces the need for travel, making care more accessible, especially during times of poor weather or transportation limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine and integrated it seamlessly into their asthma management protocols would contribute positively to the overall 'Asthma Score.' However, the effectiveness of telemedicine depends on factors like reliable internet access and patient comfort with technology.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma care is the integration of mental health resources. Asthma is a chronic illness that can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, and these conditions can worsen asthma symptoms and treatment adherence. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, either directly or through referrals, would receive higher scores. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups specializing in chronic illness management. The availability of these resources demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care.

Specific practices within the 16836 ZIP code would need individual evaluation. For instance, if a local practice has a high physician-to-patient ratio, a strong telemedicine program, and a dedicated asthma education program, it would likely receive a higher score. Conversely, a practice with limited physician availability, no telemedicine options, and no mental health support would score lower. The 'Asthma Score' is a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare infrastructure.

The 'Asthma Score' is also influenced by community-level factors. The presence of local pharmacies with trained pharmacists who can provide asthma medication counseling and support is beneficial. Public health initiatives focused on asthma awareness and education can also positively impact the score. Environmental factors, such as air quality and the prevalence of allergens, are beyond the direct control of healthcare providers but are essential considerations.

The overall picture of asthma care in Frenchville, as reflected by the 'Asthma Score,' is dynamic. It requires continuous monitoring and improvement. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and treatment approaches emerging. Regular assessments of the 'Asthma Score' are crucial to identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents of Frenchville have access to the best possible asthma care.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Frenchville, and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps provide a visual representation of the data, allowing you to identify areas of need and assess the accessibility of care. Contact CartoChrome today to learn more.