17064, Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17064, Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17064 has some form of health insurance. 37.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 87.64 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 17064 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 233 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 49 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17064. An estimate of 18 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 343 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 16,049 health care providers accessible to residents in 17064, Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors and Primary Care in Mount Gretna (ZIP Code 17064)

Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17064), presents a unique demographic and geographic profile that influences its healthcare landscape. Assessing the availability and quality of primary care, particularly concerning asthma management, requires a nuanced understanding of the area's resources and challenges. This analysis provides an "Asthma Score" perspective, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, all crucial elements in effective asthma care.

The foundation of a robust asthma score lies in access to primary care physicians (PCPs). In 17064, the physician-to-patient ratio likely mirrors the broader trends in Lebanon County, which may present challenges. Rural areas often experience shortages, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to specialized care. Analyzing the exact physician-to-patient ratio requires accessing up-to-date data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the U.S. Census Bureau, which are not available for this analysis. However, the assumption of a potential shortage necessitates a focus on how existing resources are utilized and how readily available they are to residents with asthma.

Standout practices within and around 17064 are critical to the asthma score. These practices demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, encompassing comprehensive asthma management. They likely employ certified asthma educators (CAEs), nurses with specialized training in asthma management, and other support staff dedicated to educating patients about their condition, medication adherence, and environmental triggers. These practices will also offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing (PFTs) and access to specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, when necessary. Identifying these practices requires examining online reviews, patient testimonials, and information from local healthcare networks. The presence of these attributes significantly elevates the asthma score for the community.

Telemedicine adoption plays a significant role in enhancing the asthma score, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their PCPs or specialists remotely. This is particularly beneficial for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and asthma education sessions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of peak flow meters, and online patient portals, receive a higher asthma score. The ability to provide timely care, even in inclement weather or when transportation is limited, is a crucial advantage.

Mental health resources are intrinsically linked to asthma management. Asthma, a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care model, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, contribute to a higher asthma score. This holistic approach addresses the emotional and psychological aspects of the disease, improving patient outcomes. The integration of mental health resources indicates a commitment to comprehensive patient care.

Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care options significantly impacts the asthma score. Asthma exacerbations can occur at any time, and access to prompt medical attention is critical. Practices that offer after-hours phone consultations, urgent care clinics, or partnerships with emergency rooms improve the asthma score. This ensures that patients have access to care when they need it most, preventing unnecessary hospitalizations and improving overall disease control.

Analyzing the availability of pharmacies and respiratory therapists within the community is also crucial. Convenient access to medications and respiratory support services, such as nebulizer treatments and oxygen therapy, is essential for effective asthma management. The presence of local pharmacies with knowledgeable pharmacists who can counsel patients on their medications and the availability of respiratory therapists contribute to a higher asthma score.

The effectiveness of asthma education programs offered by the local healthcare providers also influences the asthma score. These programs should educate patients on asthma triggers, proper inhaler technique, medication management, and emergency action plans. The availability of culturally sensitive educational materials and programs that cater to different age groups and literacy levels is also essential. Practices that prioritize asthma education and empower patients to manage their condition effectively receive a higher score.

The asthma score also considers the practice's adherence to evidence-based guidelines for asthma management. This includes the use of appropriate medications, regular monitoring of lung function, and individualized treatment plans. Practices that follow national guidelines, such as those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality care and improving patient outcomes.

Finally, community involvement and outreach initiatives can positively influence the asthma score. Practices that participate in community health fairs, offer free asthma screenings, or partner with local schools and organizations to raise awareness about asthma demonstrate a commitment to improving the health of the community. These initiatives can help identify undiagnosed cases of asthma, educate the public about the disease, and promote early intervention.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma score for doctors in ZIP code 17064 requires a multifaceted approach. It encompasses physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices with specialized staff, telemedicine adoption, integration of mental health resources, and the availability of after-hours care and community outreach. While a precise numerical score requires access to detailed data, the framework outlined provides a roadmap for evaluating the quality and accessibility of asthma care in Mount Gretna and the surrounding area.
The specific data points would need to be gathered and analyzed to provide a definitive score.

For a visual representation of healthcare resources in Mount Gretna and surrounding areas, including physician locations, access to specialists, and the availability of pharmacies and urgent care facilities, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps.