16901, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16901, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.70 percent of the residents in 16901 has some form of health insurance. 43.92 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.96 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 16901 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,989 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16901. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,708 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 826 health care providers accessible to residents in 16901, Wellsboro, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16901 and Primary Care Availability in Wellsboro

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16901) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis examines key factors impacting asthma patients, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in this specific geographic area.

Wellsboro, a rural community, likely faces unique challenges compared to urban areas in terms of healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of access. Determining the precise ratio requires data on the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, actively practicing within the ZIP code, or serving the population. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This can exacerbate asthma symptoms and increase the risk of severe exacerbations. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) can provide valuable insights.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care offered by existing practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" requires evaluating several factors. This includes the presence of board-certified physicians, the utilization of evidence-based asthma management guidelines, and the availability of comprehensive services, such as pulmonary function testing (PFTs) and allergy testing. Patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable perspectives on patient satisfaction, communication, and the overall patient experience. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can serve as an indicator of quality. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in asthma education programs and community outreach initiatives demonstrate a commitment to proactive patient care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for expanding healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine by Wellsboro physicians is crucial. This includes evaluating the availability of virtual consultations for routine follow-ups, medication management, and patient education. Telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel for patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. The use of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and pulse oximeters, coupled with telemedicine platforms, can enable physicians to track patient symptoms and adjust treatment plans remotely, improving asthma control. The availability of telehealth services that are covered by insurance is also an important factor.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into asthma care is critical. This involves assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists and therapists, who specialize in treating patients with chronic respiratory conditions. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or that have established referral pathways to mental health providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The availability of support groups and educational resources for both patients and caregivers is also a valuable asset.

The analysis must also consider the availability of specialized asthma care. While PCPs often manage asthma, access to pulmonologists and allergists is essential for patients with complex or uncontrolled asthma. The proximity of specialists, the ability to get timely appointments, and the availability of specialized diagnostic and treatment options (such as biologic therapies) are all crucial factors in assessing the quality of asthma care. The presence of a local hospital with a dedicated respiratory therapy department and emergency services equipped to handle asthma exacerbations is also a vital component of the healthcare infrastructure.

Furthermore, the analysis should consider the availability of asthma education programs. These programs, offered by healthcare providers, hospitals, or community organizations, empower patients to manage their condition effectively. They provide education on asthma triggers, medication use, inhaler techniques, and action plans for managing exacerbations. The availability of these programs, and the degree to which they are accessible and culturally sensitive, can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Finally, the impact of socioeconomic factors cannot be ignored. The analysis should consider the prevalence of asthma in the population, the socioeconomic status of residents, and the availability of resources to address social determinants of health. Factors such as housing quality, access to healthy food, and exposure to environmental pollutants can significantly impact asthma control. Identifying and addressing these factors is essential for providing equitable and effective asthma care.

In conclusion, assessing asthma care in Wellsboro requires a thorough evaluation of various factors, from physician-to-patient ratios and the availability of specialized care to the adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources. By considering these elements, a more complete picture of the asthma care landscape emerges, enabling informed decisions for patients and healthcare providers alike.

For a detailed, interactive map illustrating physician locations, practice specializations, and other crucial healthcare data points within Wellsboro and surrounding areas, visit CartoChrome maps.