16870, Port Matilda, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16870, Port Matilda, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.45 percent of the residents in 16870 has some form of health insurance. 26.14 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 86.23 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 16870 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,212 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16870. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,008 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 879 health care providers accessible to residents in 16870, Port Matilda, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16870 & Primary Care Availability in Port Matilda

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care and primary care accessibility within ZIP Code 16870 (Port Matilda, Pennsylvania) and its surrounding areas. The goal is to assess the availability and quality of care, particularly focusing on asthma management, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare environment for residents of Port Matilda and the broader region.

The cornerstone of any assessment of asthma care is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Port Matilda, a relatively small community, relies heavily on the surrounding areas, particularly State College, for its healthcare needs. The physician-to-patient ratio in this area is a crucial indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the general trend in Centre County, which encompasses Port Matilda, suggests a potential shortage of PCPs, particularly when compared to national averages. This can translate into longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care, which is critical for managing asthma effectively.

The availability of specialists, specifically pulmonologists and allergists, is another vital factor. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, often requires specialized care. The presence of these specialists within a reasonable driving distance is essential for providing comprehensive asthma management. Access to these specialists within the ZIP code itself is unlikely, given the size of Port Matilda. Residents likely rely on specialists located in State College or potentially even further afield, depending on their insurance coverage and specific needs.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the use of evidence-based asthma management guidelines, patient satisfaction scores, and the integration of technology to enhance patient care. Practices that actively monitor patient asthma control, provide patient education, and offer personalized treatment plans are more likely to be considered high-quality. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a significant advantage, as they can provide specialized instruction on inhaler techniques, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans.

Telemedicine adoption has become increasingly important, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers several benefits for asthma management, including remote monitoring of lung function, virtual consultations, and medication refills. Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel burdens for patients, and potentially improve asthma control. The degree of telemedicine integration within practices in the 16870 ZIP code and surrounding areas will significantly influence the overall asthma score.

The integration of mental health resources is a crucial aspect of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This integration can improve patient outcomes and overall asthma management effectiveness.

Assessing the quality of asthma care also involves evaluating the availability of ancillary services, such as respiratory therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation. Respiratory therapists play a crucial role in educating patients about asthma management techniques and providing support during exacerbations. Pulmonary rehabilitation programs offer structured exercise and education programs to improve lung function and overall well-being. The presence of these services within the local healthcare system contributes to a higher asthma score.

Specific practices within the region warrant closer examination. While a comprehensive review of all practices is beyond the scope of this analysis, identifying those that consistently receive positive patient reviews, demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care, and actively utilize technology for patient management is essential. These practices often serve as models for others in the area and contribute significantly to the overall quality of asthma care.

The assessment of physician-to-patient ratios requires analyzing data from multiple sources, including the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state-level licensing boards. This data can help determine whether the area is designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA), which can influence access to care and the availability of resources. Understanding these ratios is crucial for identifying potential gaps in care and developing strategies to address them.

Evaluating the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) is another important factor. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between providers, improve care coordination, and enable better tracking of patient outcomes. Practices that have fully implemented EHRs and utilize them effectively for asthma management are likely to provide higher-quality care. The ability to track asthma control metrics, medication adherence, and exacerbation frequency is greatly enhanced by the use of EHRs.

Analyzing insurance coverage and affordability is also critical. The cost of asthma medications and healthcare services can be a significant barrier to care for many patients. Understanding the acceptance of different insurance plans and the availability of financial assistance programs is essential for ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need. Practices that actively work with patients to address financial concerns demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care.

Finally, patient education and empowerment are key components of effective asthma management. Practices that provide patients with clear and concise information about their condition, treatment options, and self-management strategies are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The availability of educational materials, support groups, and online resources can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and overall asthma control.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma score for doctors in ZIP Code 16870 and primary care availability in Port Matilda requires a multifaceted approach. It necessitates evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and examining the integration of mental health resources. It also involves considering the availability of specialists, ancillary services, insurance coverage, and patient education programs. By analyzing these factors, a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape can be achieved, leading to the identification of areas for improvement and the development of strategies to enhance asthma care for the residents of Port Matilda and the surrounding areas.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, including physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data, explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome.