17065, Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17065, Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.74 percent of the residents in 17065 has some form of health insurance. 34.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.19 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 17065 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 574 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 116 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17065. An estimate of 6 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 613 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 22,644 health care providers accessible to residents in 17065, Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17065 and Primary Care Availability in Mount Holly Springs

This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare accessibility and quality for asthma sufferers residing in ZIP Code 17065, focusing specifically on Mount Holly Springs, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors crucial for effective asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and mental health support, while also evaluating the overall primary care environment.

The foundation of asthma care rests on the availability of qualified physicians. ZIP Code 17065, a relatively small geographic area, presents a potential challenge in terms of physician-to-patient ratios. While precise figures fluctuate, a general understanding of the ratio is vital. Ideally, asthma patients require timely access to primary care physicians (PCPs) for routine check-ups, medication management, and referral to specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, when necessary. Limited PCP availability translates to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delayed diagnoses, and inadequate ongoing care, all of which negatively impact asthma control. The "Asthma Score" for physician availability is therefore directly tied to the density of PCPs and specialists within the area and the ease with which patients can secure appointments.

Beyond mere numbers, the characteristics of local medical practices significantly influence the "Asthma Score." Practices that prioritize asthma management demonstrate a higher level of commitment to patient well-being. This includes the availability of on-site spirometry testing (a lung function test), patient education programs focused on asthma triggers and management techniques, and a clear protocol for handling asthma exacerbations. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those focused on asthma care, receive higher scores. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) allows for better coordination of care, medication tracking, and communication between physicians and patients. Practices lacking these essential elements receive a lower "Asthma Score" designation.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a critical component of modern healthcare, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers several advantages, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Remote consultations allow for convenient follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and symptom monitoring. The "Asthma Score" reflects the extent to which local practices utilize telemedicine platforms. Practices offering virtual visits, remote monitoring devices (e.g., peak flow meters that transmit data), and online patient portals for communication receive higher scores. Practices that have yet to embrace telemedicine, or offer limited telehealth options, see their "Asthma Score" suffer.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the impact of mental health. Asthma, a chronic condition, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Effective asthma management requires a holistic approach that addresses both physical and psychological well-being. The "Asthma Score" considers the availability of mental health resources within the Mount Holly Springs area. This includes the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) who are familiar with the complexities of asthma, as well as integrated behavioral health services within primary care practices. Practices that offer integrated mental health support or have established referral pathways to mental health providers receive a higher score. A lack of mental health resources, or poor coordination between physical and mental health providers, negatively affects the score.

Identifying "standout practices" within ZIP Code 17065 is crucial. These practices serve as models for quality asthma care. A standout practice would ideally demonstrate a high physician-to-patient ratio, offering convenient access to appointments. They would have robust asthma management protocols, including spirometry, patient education, and medication management. They would actively embrace telemedicine, providing virtual visits and remote monitoring options. Furthermore, they would prioritize mental health, either through integrated services or strong referral networks. The "Asthma Score" for individual practices is based on a weighted evaluation of these factors, with each factor contributing to the overall score.

Primary care availability in Mount Holly Springs is a crucial element of the "Asthma Score." The overall health of the primary care system, including the number of PCPs, their accessibility, and the quality of care provided, directly impacts asthma patients. A robust primary care system ensures that patients have access to timely diagnoses, effective treatment plans, and ongoing support. A weak primary care system, characterized by limited access, long wait times, and a lack of specialized asthma expertise, negatively affects the "Asthma Score" for the entire area.

The evaluation of the "Asthma Score" also requires considering the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can all create barriers to asthma care. The "Asthma Score" takes these factors into account, recognizing that patients from disadvantaged backgrounds may face additional challenges in managing their condition. Addressing these disparities is vital for improving the overall health of the community.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" is a dynamic assessment that reflects the current state of asthma care within ZIP Code 17065. It is intended to be a tool for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to identify areas of strength and weakness and to guide efforts to improve the quality of asthma care. The score is not a static number but a reflection of the evolving healthcare landscape.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Holly Springs, including the locations of physicians, primary care facilities, and related resources, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. These maps offer a visual representation of the data, allowing you to identify potential areas of improvement and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.