17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.33 percent of the residents in 17044 has some form of health insurance. 44.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.16 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 17044 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,476 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17044. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,943 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,002 health care providers accessible to residents in 17044, Lewistown, Pennsylvania.

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, significantly impacts the quality of life for individuals and places a considerable burden on healthcare systems. This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP Code 17044, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for asthma sufferers in Lewistown, Pennsylvania.

The foundation of effective asthma management often rests with the primary care physician (PCP). In Lewistown (ZIP Code 17044), assessing primary care availability is crucial. Factors influencing accessibility include the number of PCPs practicing within the area, their individual patient loads, and the ease with which new patients can schedule appointments. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially compromised continuity of care. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive management of asthma symptoms. Data on these ratios, ideally sourced from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or similar agencies, is essential for a comprehensive evaluation.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care is equally important. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management often implement evidence-based guidelines and protocols. This includes regular pulmonary function testing, education on proper inhaler technique, and personalized asthma action plans. The availability of these resources within primary care settings significantly influences patient outcomes. Furthermore, the integration of specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, into the care network is beneficial. Easy referral pathways and collaborative care models can improve the overall management of complex asthma cases.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in asthma care, particularly in rural areas like Lewistown. Remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and medication management through telehealth platforms can enhance access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Examining the adoption of telemedicine among primary care practices in 17044 is critical. Practices that embrace telehealth technologies may offer more convenient and accessible care options, leading to improved patient adherence to treatment plans and better asthma control. The availability of technical support and training for both physicians and patients is also an important consideration for successful telemedicine implementation.

The connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma sufferers often experience anxiety and depression, which can exacerbate their symptoms and negatively impact their overall well-being. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources into primary care is a crucial aspect of comprehensive asthma management. This includes screening for mental health conditions, providing access to counseling or therapy, and coordinating care with mental health specialists when necessary. Practices that prioritize mental health support can improve patient outcomes by addressing the psychological factors that contribute to asthma exacerbations. The availability of mental health professionals within the local community, or through telehealth options, is a key factor in assessing the overall quality of care.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 17044 requires a multi-faceted approach. This involves reviewing patient testimonials, assessing the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, and evaluating the availability of specialized services. Practices that consistently demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive symptom management, and the integration of mental health resources are likely to achieve better outcomes. Publicly available data, such as patient satisfaction surveys and quality metrics, can provide valuable insights into the performance of individual practices. Furthermore, collaboration with local asthma support groups or patient advocacy organizations can provide valuable feedback on the quality of care.

The analysis of asthma care in Lewistown (ZIP Code 17044) reveals a complex landscape. The availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all play critical roles in determining the quality of care. While specific data on these factors is essential for a definitive ranking, this analysis provides a framework for assessing the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare environment. Further investigation, including data collection from local healthcare providers and patient feedback, is necessary to develop a comprehensive asthma score.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lewistown and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a spatial representation of physician locations, healthcare facilities, and other relevant data points, allowing for a more informed assessment of access to care and resource distribution.