16936, Millerton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16936, Millerton, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.45 percent of the residents in 16936 has some form of health insurance. 40.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.76 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 16936 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 463 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16936. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 514 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,372 health care providers accessible to residents in 16936, Millerton, Pennsylvania.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 16936 & Primary Care Availability in Millerton**

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP Code 16936, encompassing the Millerton area, requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves assessing physician density, practice characteristics, the integration of technology, and the availability of supporting mental health resources. This analysis provides an ‘Asthma Score’ perspective, though without a formal numerical score, it offers a qualitative ranking based on key factors.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical starting point. In rural areas like Millerton, the density of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists is often lower compared to urban centers. Assessing the number of practicing physicians within 16936, specifically those specializing in primary care or pulmonology, relative to the estimated population, reveals a baseline. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, would negatively impact the Asthma Score. This scarcity can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial asthma management.

The type and size of medical practices in Millerton significantly influence the Asthma Score. Larger practices with multiple physicians can offer greater appointment availability and potentially a broader range of services. Practices employing certified asthma educators (CAEs) or respiratory therapists are particularly beneficial. These professionals can provide specialized asthma education, helping patients understand their condition, manage triggers, and utilize medication effectively. The presence of these specialists would positively influence the Asthma Score.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial factor. Telemedicine offers a valuable solution for asthma management, especially in rural areas. Remote consultations allow patients to connect with their physicians for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and symptom monitoring, without the need for extensive travel. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual visits and remote monitoring tools, would receive a higher score. This is particularly important for patients with poorly controlled asthma who require frequent check-ins.

Beyond direct medical care, the availability of mental health resources plays a crucial role in asthma management. Asthma can be a chronic condition that significantly impacts a patient's quality of life. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Practices that integrate mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would contribute positively to the Asthma Score. This holistic approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

Analyzing the specific practices within 16936 is essential. Identifying standout practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma care is key. Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, implement patient-centered care models, and utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively would score higher. EHRs can facilitate better communication between physicians, track patient progress, and allow for more personalized asthma management plans.

Further, the availability of after-hours care is a significant consideration. Asthma exacerbations can occur at any time, and access to timely medical attention is critical. Practices that offer extended hours, on-call physicians, or partnerships with urgent care facilities improve the Asthma Score. This ensures that patients can receive prompt care when needed, preventing potentially serious complications.

Examining the local hospital's role in asthma care is also important. Hospitals often have specialized respiratory departments and offer comprehensive asthma management programs. The presence of a well-equipped hospital within reasonable proximity, capable of providing emergency care and inpatient treatment for severe asthma attacks, is a positive indicator. Collaboration between primary care physicians and the hospital's respiratory specialists can improve the overall Asthma Score.

The accessibility of asthma medications is another factor. Pharmacies within the ZIP code must stock a sufficient supply of asthma medications, including both rescue inhalers and long-term control medications. The ease with which patients can obtain their prescriptions, including options for mail-order pharmacies or medication delivery services, contributes to the Asthma Score. Difficulties in accessing medications can lead to poor asthma control and increased hospitalizations.

The quality of asthma education provided to patients is paramount. Practices that offer structured asthma education programs, either in-person or online, empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition. These programs should cover topics such as trigger avoidance, proper inhaler technique, medication management, and recognizing and responding to asthma symptoms. The availability of culturally sensitive educational materials is also important.

The Asthma Score is also influenced by the level of patient satisfaction. Gathering feedback from patients through surveys or other means provides valuable insights into the quality of care. Practices that actively seek and respond to patient feedback, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement, would receive a higher score. Patient satisfaction is a key indicator of the overall effectiveness of asthma management.

Finally, the presence of community resources that support asthma patients can positively impact the Asthma Score. These resources may include support groups, asthma camps for children, or partnerships with local organizations that provide asthma-related education and advocacy. A strong network of community support can help patients feel less isolated and better equipped to manage their condition.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for doctors in ZIP Code 16936 and primary care availability in Millerton is a complex assessment. It depends on a variety of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, technology adoption, mental health resources, and community support. Without specific data, it is impossible to assign a definitive score. However, by considering these factors, a comprehensive understanding of the quality and accessibility of asthma care in the area can be obtained.

To visualize and analyze the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and pharmacy locations, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping tools to visualize data and identify areas with limited access to care.