16839, Grassflat, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16839, Grassflat, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.29 percent of the residents in 16839 has some form of health insurance. 54.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.64 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 16839 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 194 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16839. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 21 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,476 health care providers accessible to residents in 16839, Grassflat, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16839 and Primary Care Availability in Grassflat

Analyzing the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in ZIP code 16839, which encompasses the Philipsburg area, and assessing primary care access in the nearby community of Grassflat, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will evaluate key factors influencing asthma management, focusing on physician availability, practice characteristics, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions. The ultimate goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to individuals managing asthma within these specific geographic boundaries.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in the availability of qualified physicians. In 16839, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care providers is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments. This necessitates a close examination of the number of practicing primary care physicians, their specializations (e.g., internal medicine, family medicine), and their willingness to accept new patients. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with local hospital and clinic directories, can provide a comprehensive picture of physician distribution within the ZIP code.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care provided by these physicians is paramount. This assessment should consider the training and experience of the physicians, their adherence to current asthma treatment guidelines, and their patient satisfaction ratings. Practices that emphasize patient education, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and proactively monitor patient progress are likely to achieve better outcomes. Furthermore, the availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is critical. While primary care physicians often manage asthma, access to specialists is essential for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma.

Primary care availability in Grassflat, a smaller community, presents a different set of challenges. Rural areas often face shortages of healthcare providers, making access to timely medical care difficult. The analysis must investigate the presence of primary care practices within Grassflat itself, as well as the distance and accessibility of practices located in neighboring towns, such as Philipsburg. Transportation limitations, particularly for elderly or low-income individuals, can significantly impact access to care. The availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and the willingness of practices to offer transportation assistance are important factors to consider.

Modern healthcare solutions, particularly telemedicine, are playing an increasingly important role in asthma management. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for routine check-ups and medication adjustments. Practices in 16839 and serving Grassflat should be evaluated on their adoption of telemedicine technologies. This includes the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring devices (e.g., peak flow meters with data transmission), and the use of patient portals for communication and medication refills. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care, particularly for patients living in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

The impact of mental health on asthma management is often overlooked. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively affect treatment adherence. Therefore, the analysis must assess the availability of mental health resources within the local healthcare system. This includes the presence of psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed therapists, as well as the integration of mental health services into primary care practices. Practices that screen patients for mental health conditions and offer referrals to appropriate services are better equipped to provide comprehensive asthma care.

Standout practices in the region should be identified based on their commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered asthma care. These practices may excel in areas such as patient education, telemedicine adoption, or the integration of mental health services. Their best practices can serve as a model for other providers in the area, promoting continuous improvement in asthma management. This requires a review of patient testimonials, practice websites, and information from local healthcare organizations.

The assessment should also consider the availability of ancillary services, such as respiratory therapy, asthma education programs, and pharmacy services. Respiratory therapists can provide valuable support to asthma patients, teaching them proper inhaler techniques and helping them manage their symptoms. Asthma education programs can empower patients to take control of their condition and improve their quality of life. Easy access to pharmacies that carry asthma medications and offer convenient refill options is also crucial.

Assessing the accessibility of asthma medications is a key factor. This involves evaluating the availability of both generic and brand-name medications, as well as the affordability of these medications. The analysis should consider the presence of pharmacy benefit programs, patient assistance programs, and other resources that can help patients afford their medications. Practices that actively assist patients in navigating these programs are better positioned to ensure that patients have access to the medications they need.

In conclusion, a comprehensive analysis of asthma care in ZIP code 16839 and primary care availability in Grassflat requires a multi-faceted approach. It necessitates a careful evaluation of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and the accessibility of medications. By considering these factors, a clear picture of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in this region can be developed, and areas for improvement can be identified. This analysis will help to identify areas for improvement and highlight best practices, ultimately contributing to better asthma management and improved patient outcomes.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician density, and patient demographics related to asthma in the 16839 ZIP code and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps provide a dynamic and insightful way to understand the healthcare landscape and identify areas with the greatest need.