16937, Mills, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 16937, Mills, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 68.60 percent of the residents in 16937 has some form of health insurance. 33.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.55 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 16937 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 17 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 16937. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 32 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 102 health care providers accessible to residents in 16937, Mills, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Mills, PA (ZIP Code 16937)

Analyzing the landscape of asthma care in Mills, Pennsylvania, requires a nuanced approach, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the quality of care, access to resources, and the evolving role of technology. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," attempts to provide a comprehensive overview, acknowledging the interconnectedness of various factors influencing patient outcomes. We'll delve into physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and assess the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of primary care accessibility in Mills.

The foundation of any good asthma care system rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Mills, being a rural community, likely faces challenges in this regard. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially, poorer asthma control. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Health will be crucial in determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio within the 16937 ZIP code. This data must be coupled with an assessment of the age and specialization of available physicians. Are there enough family medicine doctors, internal medicine specialists, and pediatricians to adequately serve the population, including those with asthma?

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by primary care physicians is paramount. The Asthma Score must consider factors such as the physicians' adherence to national guidelines for asthma management, their experience in treating asthma, and their ability to effectively communicate with patients. Reviewing patient testimonials, analyzing physician performance metrics (if available), and examining the types of asthma medications commonly prescribed can provide insights into the quality of care. The presence of certified asthma educators within the practices is also a significant positive indicator. These educators play a vital role in patient education, helping individuals understand their condition, manage their medications, and identify triggers.

Identifying "standout practices" within the 16937 ZIP code is crucial. These practices might excel in specific areas, such as patient education, asthma action plan development, or the provision of specialized services. The Asthma Score should recognize practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based asthma management and patient-centered care. This could involve recognizing practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively to track patient outcomes, and offer extended hours or weekend appointments to improve access.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for improving healthcare access, especially in rural areas. Its adoption rate by primary care practices in Mills is a critical factor in the Asthma Score. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and patient education, thereby reducing the need for in-person visits, especially for routine follow-ups. The availability of telemedicine services can be particularly beneficial for patients with asthma, allowing them to receive timely care and support from the comfort of their homes. The Asthma Score should assess the types of telemedicine services offered, the ease of access, and the integration of these services into the overall asthma care plan.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common among individuals with asthma, and these conditions can worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a crucial component of the Asthma Score. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, as well as the availability of support groups and educational programs. The Asthma Score should assess the integration of mental health services into the asthma care plan, ensuring that patients have access to the support they need to manage both their physical and emotional well-being.

Primary care availability in Mills is inextricably linked to overall asthma care. The Asthma Score must consider the geographical distribution of primary care practices, the transportation options available to patients, and the affordability of care. If patients face significant barriers to accessing primary care, their asthma management will likely suffer. This assessment should include an analysis of the availability of public transportation, the distance patients must travel to reach a primary care practice, and the acceptance of various insurance plans.

Furthermore, the Asthma Score should take into account the presence of any specialized asthma care providers, such as pulmonologists or allergists, within a reasonable distance of Mills. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to specialists is essential for patients with complex or uncontrolled asthma. The Asthma Score should assess the availability of these specialists, the wait times for appointments, and the ease of referral from primary care physicians.

The ultimate goal of the Asthma Score is to provide a clear and actionable assessment of asthma care in Mills. By considering all these factors, the score can help identify areas of strength and weakness, allowing for targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes. This information can be invaluable for healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients alike.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care practices, specialists, and pharmacies, within and around the 16937 ZIP code, explore the power of visual data. CartoChrome maps can transform complex datasets into interactive and insightful visualizations, providing a clear picture of the healthcare landscape.