17053, Marysville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17053, Marysville, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.67 percent of the residents in 17053 has some form of health insurance. 29.55 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 83.20 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 17053 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 888 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 110 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17053. An estimate of 11 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 930 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 24,152 health care providers accessible to residents in 17053, Marysville, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Marysville, PA (ZIP Code 17053)

Marysville, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Susquehanna River, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery, particularly regarding asthma management. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care within the 17053 ZIP code, focusing on factors that contribute to an “Asthma Score,” a hypothetical metric reflecting the ease with which residents can access effective asthma care. This score considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial for comprehensive asthma management.

The physician-to-patient ratio in Marysville is a foundational element of our analysis. While precise, up-to-the-minute figures are constantly fluctuating, publicly available data suggests a potential challenge. Rural areas often grapple with a shortage of primary care physicians, and Marysville, while not entirely rural, may experience similar pressures. A lower physician-to-patient ratio (meaning fewer doctors per resident) can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and difficulty in establishing a strong patient-physician relationship, all detrimental to effective asthma control. This scarcity may be further exacerbated by the need for specialized pulmonologists, whose availability in smaller communities is often limited.

Assessing "standout practices" involves identifying clinics and healthcare providers demonstrating excellence in asthma care. This includes evaluating factors like the implementation of evidence-based asthma guidelines, the use of patient education materials, and the availability of asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs. Practices with dedicated asthma educators, registered nurses specializing in respiratory care, and readily available spirometry testing would score higher. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in asthma-related research or community outreach programs would demonstrate a commitment to improving asthma outcomes within the population.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical component of the Asthma Score. Telemedicine offers a powerful tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma, particularly in areas where access to in-person care is limited. Remote consultations allow patients to connect with their physicians for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and symptom monitoring, reducing the need for frequent trips to the clinic. Practices utilizing remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters with data transmission capabilities, would be viewed favorably. The ability to offer virtual asthma education sessions and support groups further enhances the value of telemedicine in this context.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as essential for comprehensive asthma care. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced adherence to treatment plans. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, would score higher. This integration allows for a holistic approach, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the disease. The availability of mental health resources can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Evaluating the overall Asthma Score requires a nuanced understanding of the interplay between these factors. A high score would indicate a community with a robust primary care infrastructure, readily accessible specialists, widespread telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health support. Conversely, a low score would suggest potential barriers to care, such as physician shortages, limited access to specialists, and a lack of integrated services. The specific weighting of each factor (physician-to-patient ratio, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration) would be determined by their relative impact on asthma outcomes.

The impact of these factors extends beyond individual patient care. A well-managed asthma population can lead to reduced hospitalizations, fewer emergency room visits, and lower healthcare costs. It can also improve school attendance rates for children with asthma and enhance overall community health and productivity. Addressing any identified deficiencies in the healthcare system is therefore a priority for the well-being of the Marysville community.

The assessment of primary care availability in Marysville necessitates a detailed examination of the existing healthcare landscape. This includes identifying the number of primary care physicians practicing within the ZIP code, evaluating the types of services offered, and assessing the accessibility of these services to the community. Factors such as insurance acceptance, hours of operation, and the availability of after-hours care also play a significant role.

The analysis of "standout practices" also considers the use of innovative technologies. Electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate seamless communication between providers, patient portals that empower patients to manage their care, and mobile applications that support asthma self-management are all positive indicators. Practices embracing technology demonstrate a commitment to improving patient outcomes and streamlining the care process.

Telemedicine adoption is also influenced by technological infrastructure. The availability of reliable internet access in Marysville is a key consideration. Practices must have the necessary technology and staff training to effectively utilize telemedicine platforms. The ability to offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient education sessions is a measure of the practice's commitment to providing accessible care.

Mental health integration involves more than just referrals. Practices that actively screen patients for mental health concerns, provide brief interventions, and offer ongoing support are more likely to achieve positive outcomes. The availability of mental health resources within the community, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, also contributes to the overall score.

Finally, the overall Asthma Score serves as a snapshot of the healthcare environment in Marysville. It highlights areas of strength and identifies opportunities for improvement. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to develop targeted interventions and improve asthma care for all residents.

For a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Marysville, and to visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, consider exploring the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps.