16928, Knoxville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16928, Knoxville, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.04 percent of the residents in 16928 has some form of health insurance. 44.44 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.72 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 16928 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 294 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16928. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 284 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 503 health care providers accessible to residents in 16928, Knoxville, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16928 and Primary Care Availability in Knoxville

Analyzing the availability of quality primary care physicians and resources for asthma management within ZIP code 16928, while also considering the broader context of primary care access in Knoxville, requires a multifaceted approach. We must evaluate physician density, the presence of specialized asthma care, the adoption of telehealth, and the integration of mental health resources, all of which contribute to an "Asthma Score" reflecting the overall quality of care available to asthma sufferers. This analysis will provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare landscape and offer a perspective on how access to care can be improved.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible and competent primary care. In ZIP code 16928, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A low ratio, meaning a relatively small number of physicians serving a large population, can lead to appointment delays, reduced time per patient, and potentially compromised care. Conversely, a high ratio suggests greater accessibility. Publicly available data, such as that from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), should be consulted to establish this ratio. Furthermore, the analysis must consider the types of primary care practices present. Are there solo practitioners, group practices, or affiliations with larger healthcare systems? Group practices often offer greater resources, including on-site specialists and extended hours, which can be beneficial for asthma patients.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by primary care physicians is paramount. This involves assessing their experience in managing asthma, their adherence to established asthma treatment guidelines (such as those from the National Institutes of Health), and their ability to provide patient education. This information can be gleaned from online reviews (while acknowledging their limitations), patient testimonials, and, where available, practice-specific data on asthma control rates. A physician's willingness to actively involve patients in their care, promoting self-management strategies and regular follow-up appointments, is also crucial.

The presence of specialized asthma care within ZIP code 16928 and the broader Knoxville area is another significant factor in the Asthma Score. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to pulmonologists and allergists is essential for patients with moderate to severe asthma or those whose condition is difficult to control. The availability of these specialists, their proximity to primary care practices, and the ease with which patients can be referred to them are critical considerations. The presence of specialized asthma clinics, which offer comprehensive care including pulmonary function testing, allergy testing, and asthma education programs, would significantly enhance the score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma, particularly in rural areas or for patients with mobility limitations. The adoption of telehealth by primary care practices and specialists in ZIP code 16928 and Knoxville is therefore a key component of the analysis. Telehealth can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, improving access to care and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The analysis should assess the availability of telehealth services, the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease with which patients can access and use these services.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can exacerbate anxiety and depression, while these mental health conditions can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into asthma care is a crucial factor in the Asthma Score. This involves assessing the availability of mental health professionals (therapists, psychiatrists) within primary care practices or through referral networks. The analysis should also consider whether practices screen patients for mental health conditions, provide resources for managing stress and anxiety, and offer coordinated care between primary care physicians and mental health providers.

Primary care availability in Knoxville, as a whole, influences the Asthma Score for ZIP code 16928. The broader healthcare ecosystem in Knoxville impacts the ability of residents in 16928 to access care. This includes the overall physician density, the presence of hospitals and urgent care centers, and the availability of transportation options. If Knoxville as a whole has a shortage of primary care physicians, the residents of 16928 will likely face greater challenges in accessing care.

Standout practices within ZIP code 16928 or the Knoxville area deserve special recognition. These are practices that demonstrate excellence in asthma management, patient education, and the integration of innovative technologies. Identifying these practices can provide valuable insights into best practices and serve as models for other healthcare providers. This might involve highlighting practices with a strong track record of asthma control, those that have successfully implemented telehealth programs, or those that have integrated mental health services into their care models.

The Asthma Score, therefore, is not a static metric. It reflects the dynamic interplay of various factors, including physician density, access to specialists, the adoption of telehealth, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to manage asthma effectively, while a low score highlights areas where improvements are needed. Regular assessments and updates to the Asthma Score are essential to track progress and identify emerging challenges.

The analysis of primary care and asthma resources in ZIP code 16928 and the surrounding Knoxville area can be complex, requiring the integration of multiple data points. Mapping these data points, visualizing physician locations, specialist availability, and the presence of mental health resources, can greatly enhance understanding and facilitate informed decision-making. CartoChrome maps can provide a comprehensive and interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape, empowering patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to make informed decisions about asthma care.