17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.31 percent of the residents in 17061 has some form of health insurance. 38.01 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.75 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 17061 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,683 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 95 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17061. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,375 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,747 health care providers accessible to residents in 17061, Millersburg, Pennsylvania.

Analyzing asthma care within ZIP code 17061, encompassing Millersburg, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. We must evaluate not just the number of physicians, but also the quality of care, access to specialists, and the integration of modern healthcare practices. This analysis will delve into these aspects, providing a comprehensive overview of the asthma care landscape in this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical starting point. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists practicing within 17061 is crucial. Publicly available data, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health resources and healthcare directories, can provide this information. A low physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for pulmonologists, could indicate potential challenges in accessing specialized asthma care. This is especially concerning given the chronic nature of asthma and the need for regular monitoring and management.

Primary care availability in Millersburg is a key factor. The accessibility of PCPs directly impacts the initial diagnosis, ongoing management, and referral pathways for asthma patients. Factors to consider include the hours of operation, appointment availability, and the acceptance of various insurance plans. Practices that offer extended hours, same-day appointments for urgent needs, and a wide range of insurance coverage are likely to provide superior access to care. Furthermore, the presence of nurse practitioners and physician assistants can enhance access, especially in areas with physician shortages.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. We must assess the quality of care provided by individual practices. This can involve reviewing patient reviews, examining the use of evidence-based asthma management guidelines, and evaluating the availability of asthma education programs. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, provide comprehensive asthma action plans, and offer regular follow-up appointments are likely to achieve better patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services for asthma management in 17061 is essential. This includes evaluating whether practices offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient portals for communication and education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for emergency room visits.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial in asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within 17061 is therefore essential. This includes assessing the presence of therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who specialize in treating patients with chronic illnesses. Ideally, these services should be integrated into the primary care setting or easily accessible through referrals. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to these resources are likely to offer more comprehensive and patient-centered care.

Specific examples of practices within 17061 that demonstrate excellence in asthma care would be highly valuable. Identifying practices that consistently receive positive patient reviews, demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine, and actively utilize telemedicine would highlight best practices within the community. These practices could serve as models for other providers and potentially improve the overall quality of asthma care in the area.

The integration of asthma education programs is another important factor. Asthma education empowers patients to manage their condition effectively. Evaluating the availability of educational resources, such as classes on asthma triggers, medication usage, and self-management techniques, is crucial. Practices that offer these programs, either in-person or online, are likely to contribute to better patient outcomes.

The availability of specialists, particularly pulmonologists and allergists, is also crucial. While PCPs play a vital role in asthma management, patients with complex or severe asthma may require the expertise of specialists. Assessing the number of pulmonologists and allergists practicing within 17061 or in nearby areas, and evaluating the ease of access to their services, is essential. Long wait times for specialist appointments could indicate a need for increased resources or alternative care pathways.

The use of technology beyond telemedicine, such as electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals, can also impact the quality of care. EHRs allow for better coordination of care, improved medication management, and easier access to patient information. Patient portals enable patients to communicate with their providers, access their medical records, and manage their appointments. Practices that effectively utilize these technologies are likely to provide more efficient and patient-centered care.

The cost of care is another important consideration. Assessing the cost of asthma medications, office visits, and other related services can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare. Practices that are transparent about their pricing and offer financial assistance programs can help to reduce the financial burden of asthma care.

Analyzing the impact of social determinants of health is also essential. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and environmental conditions can significantly impact asthma outcomes. Understanding the prevalence of these factors within 17061 can help to identify areas where targeted interventions are needed.

In conclusion, evaluating asthma care in ZIP code 17061 requires a thorough assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, primary care availability, the quality of care provided by individual practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the integration of asthma education programs, and the accessibility of specialists. By considering these factors, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of the asthma care landscape in Millersburg and identify areas for improvement.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Millersburg, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize physician locations, primary care availability, and other relevant data, providing a valuable tool for both patients and healthcare providers.