17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.98 percent of the residents in 17023 has some form of health insurance. 30.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.80 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 17023 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 798 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17023. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 505 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,135 health care providers accessible to residents in 17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Elizabethville, PA (ZIP Code 17023)

Analyzing the availability of quality asthma care in Elizabethville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17023) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering not only the presence of physicians but also the broader healthcare ecosystem, including telemedicine options and mental health support. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering the factors that impact asthma management and patient outcomes within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of any asthma score lies in the accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs). Elizabethville, being a rural community, likely faces challenges common to such areas. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. National averages offer a baseline, but the actual ratio within 17023 needs careful investigation. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, combined with information on physician practice locations and patient demographics, would be essential to accurately determine the current physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, would negatively impact the Asthma Score.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the type and quality of care offered are crucial. The analysis must identify the practices within and immediately surrounding 17023. Are there any standout practices known for their expertise in asthma management? This involves researching physician credentials, board certifications (e.g., in allergy and immunology), and patient reviews. Practices with dedicated asthma clinics, specialized equipment (like spirometry), and robust patient education programs would contribute positively to the Asthma Score. Conversely, practices with limited resources or a lack of experience in asthma care would detract from the score.

Telemedicine adoption is a game-changer, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, potentially mitigating the challenges of geographical distance and limited physician availability. The analysis needs to assess which practices in and around Elizabethville offer telemedicine consultations, particularly for asthma management. This includes identifying the types of telemedicine platforms used (e.g., video conferencing, secure messaging), the availability of virtual asthma education sessions, and the integration of remote monitoring devices (like peak flow meters) into patient care plans. Practices embracing telemedicine would receive a higher score, reflecting improved access to care.

Asthma is often intertwined with mental health. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and conversely, managing asthma can be stressful and emotionally taxing. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the Asthma Score. The analysis must identify mental health professionals (therapists, psychiatrists, counselors) practicing within or easily accessible to residents of 17023. This includes assessing the availability of mental health services that specialize in treating individuals with chronic respiratory conditions. Practices that integrate mental health screening and referrals into their asthma care protocols would significantly boost the Asthma Score. The presence of support groups or educational programs focused on the psychological aspects of asthma would also be a positive factor.

Another important consideration is the availability of asthma-specific medications and devices. The analysis should identify local pharmacies and assess their inventory of essential asthma medications, including both rescue inhalers and long-term control medications. Furthermore, the availability of nebulizers, peak flow meters, and spacers (especially for children) should be considered. Pharmacies that offer medication counseling and patient education on proper inhaler technique would positively impact the Asthma Score.

Community resources also play a role. Are there local programs that offer asthma education, support groups, or free or low-cost asthma medications? The presence of such resources would enhance the Asthma Score, indicating a supportive environment for asthma patients. The analysis should investigate the involvement of local schools and community centers in asthma awareness and management programs.

The Asthma Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are essential to capture changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The score should be transparent and easily accessible, allowing patients and healthcare providers to understand the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in Elizabethville.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for 17023 is contingent upon a complex interplay of factors. The availability of PCPs, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of medications and community support all contribute to the overall score. A high score signifies a robust healthcare ecosystem that supports effective asthma management, leading to improved patient outcomes and quality of life. A low score highlights areas needing improvement, such as increasing physician access, expanding telemedicine options, and enhancing mental health support.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Elizabethville, including the locations of physicians, pharmacies, and community resources, consider utilizing interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis. Explore the possibilities and visualize the data by visiting CartoChrome maps today.