16855, Mineral Springs, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16855, Mineral Springs, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 16855 has some form of health insurance. 36.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 100.00 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 16855 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 10 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16855. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 13 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 479 health care providers accessible to residents in 16855, Mineral Springs, Pennsylvania.

Asthma management within the 16855 ZIP code, encompassing the Mineral Springs area, demands a multifaceted approach, encompassing not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the quality of their asthma management practices. This analysis aims to provide an 'Asthma Score' ranking, albeit a nuanced one, considering various factors impacting patient care. It's crucial to understand that a definitive numerical score is challenging to generate without access to granular patient data, but a qualitative assessment based on publicly available information and industry trends is possible.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests on accessible primary care. Evaluating primary care availability in Mineral Springs requires examining physician-to-patient ratios. Publicly available data sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health can offer insights into the number of primary care physicians serving the area and the estimated population. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally indicates better access. However, simply knowing the ratio isn't enough. The type of practice, the acceptance of new patients, and insurance plan participation all play a role.

Another key factor is the presence of standout practices. These are medical facilities known for their proactive asthma management strategies. Identifying these practices requires research into local physician reviews, patient testimonials (where available), and information about the specific services offered. Look for practices that emphasize patient education, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and utilize evidence-based treatment guidelines. Practices that actively participate in asthma-related research or quality improvement initiatives are also strong contenders.

Telemedicine adoption is a critical element in modern healthcare, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments, which can improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Assessing telemedicine adoption involves investigating which practices in the 16855 ZIP code offer telehealth services. This includes identifying the platforms used, the types of appointments available (e.g., virtual visits, remote monitoring), and the insurance coverage for these services.

Asthma often coexists with mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an integral component of comprehensive asthma care. Evaluating this aspect involves identifying the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the area and assessing their integration with primary care practices. Do primary care physicians have established referral pathways to mental health providers? Are mental health services covered by local insurance plans? Are there resources available to address the specific mental health needs of asthma patients?

The Asthma Score ranking, therefore, is not a single number but a composite assessment. Practices demonstrating the following characteristics would likely receive a higher score: a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, a commitment to accepting new patients, a focus on patient education, the use of evidence-based treatment guidelines, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. Conversely, practices with limited access, a lack of patient-centered care, and a failure to embrace modern healthcare technologies would likely receive a lower score.

Specific examples of practices within the 16855 ZIP code are difficult to provide without violating patient privacy and proprietary information. However, a thorough search using online physician directories, insurance provider websites, and local healthcare resources can help identify potential candidates. Look for practices affiliated with larger healthcare systems, as these often have more resources and a broader range of services.

Furthermore, the quality of asthma care is not static; it evolves with advancements in medical knowledge and technology. Practices that actively update their protocols, participate in continuing medical education, and embrace new technologies are more likely to provide optimal care. This includes staying abreast of the latest asthma guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP).

The analysis also needs to consider the specific needs of the Mineral Springs community. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to transportation, and environmental factors (e.g., air quality) can significantly impact asthma management. Practices that are aware of these factors and tailor their services accordingly are likely to be more effective. This may involve offering culturally sensitive care, providing assistance with medication costs, and collaborating with community organizations to address social determinants of health.

In conclusion, assessing asthma care in the 16855 ZIP code requires a comprehensive evaluation of primary care availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. While a precise numerical score is challenging to generate, a qualitative assessment based on these factors can provide valuable insights for patients seeking asthma care. This is an ongoing process, and the landscape of healthcare is constantly changing. Therefore, regular updates and reviews are essential to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.

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