16917, Covington, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16917, Covington, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.26 percent of the residents in 16917 has some form of health insurance. 41.17 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.00 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 16917 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 232 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16917. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 251 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,119 health care providers accessible to residents in 16917, Covington, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Covington, PA (ZIP Code 16917)

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP Code 16917 (Covington, Pennsylvania) and the broader primary care availability within the area, aiming to assess the quality and accessibility of care for asthma sufferers. We will consider factors impacting the “Asthma Score,” including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive asthma management.

Covington, a rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The geographic isolation and potential socioeconomic factors must be considered when evaluating asthma care resources. A robust Asthma Score would reflect not only the clinical competence of providers but also their accessibility, the integration of technology, and the holistic approach to patient well-being.

One of the primary determinants of the Asthma Score is the physician-to-patient ratio. In a rural setting like Covington, a low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians and specialists, can significantly hinder access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of asthma. The availability of pulmonologists, specifically, is critical. Their expertise in diagnosing and managing complex respiratory conditions is essential for severe asthma cases. A low ratio necessitates longer wait times for appointments, potentially leading to delayed interventions and increased risk of exacerbations. Conversely, a higher ratio, reflecting a greater concentration of providers, would positively impact the Asthma Score. Information regarding the number of practicing physicians, their specialties, and their patient load is vital for a precise assessment.

Standout practices, those demonstrating exceptional commitment to asthma care, significantly elevate the Asthma Score. These practices often implement evidence-based asthma management protocols, ensuring patients receive the most up-to-date and effective treatments. They may offer specialized services, such as asthma education programs, peak flow meter training, and personalized action plans. Furthermore, these practices prioritize patient communication, providing clear instructions, readily answering questions, and fostering a strong patient-provider relationship. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a particularly positive indicator, demonstrating a commitment to patient empowerment and self-management. Identifying these practices and evaluating their impact on patient outcomes is crucial.

Telemedicine adoption is another crucial factor influencing the Asthma Score, particularly in a rural area. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to access care remotely. This can include virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function. For asthma patients, telemedicine can be particularly beneficial, allowing for regular check-ins and early intervention in response to symptoms. The availability of telemedicine services, the ease of access, and the integration of these services into the existing healthcare system all contribute to a higher Asthma Score. Practices that actively embrace telemedicine and offer a seamless virtual experience are likely to achieve superior outcomes.

Asthma is often intertwined with mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. These conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive Asthma Score. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external specialists, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. This integration can involve screening for mental health conditions, providing counseling, and coordinating care between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals. The ease of access to these resources and the coordination of care are key indicators of a high-quality asthma management system.

Primary care availability in Covington, beyond the specific focus on asthma, is essential. A strong primary care foundation provides a crucial entry point for asthma diagnosis and management. Primary care physicians play a vital role in identifying early symptoms, initiating treatment, and coordinating care with specialists. The availability of primary care physicians, their responsiveness, and their ability to provide comprehensive care all contribute to the overall Asthma Score. Access to after-hours care and urgent care facilities is also critical, ensuring patients have access to immediate medical attention when needed.

The analysis of the Asthma Score should also consider the availability of support services, such as asthma support groups and educational materials. These resources can empower patients to take control of their condition and improve their self-management skills. The presence of these support systems and their accessibility within the community further enhance the overall Asthma Score.

Evaluating the Asthma Score for Covington, PA (ZIP Code 16917) requires a multifaceted approach, considering the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resource integration, and the overall availability of primary care. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in the quality and accessibility of asthma care. The ultimate goal is to identify areas of strength and areas for improvement, ultimately leading to better outcomes for asthma sufferers within the community.

This comprehensive evaluation will provide a valuable insight into the healthcare landscape of Covington, PA. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, stakeholders can work collaboratively to improve asthma care, ensuring that residents have access to the resources they need to manage their condition effectively. This detailed analysis is a crucial step towards enhancing the health and well-being of the community.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Covington, PA, including physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and access to resources, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive maps that allow you to visualize the distribution of healthcare providers and resources, providing a deeper understanding of the accessibility of care within your community. **Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape in Covington, PA, and gain a comprehensive understanding of asthma care accessibility. Visit CartoChrome today!**