17070, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17070, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.54 percent of the residents in 17070 has some form of health insurance. 32.02 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.61 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 17070 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,184 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 160 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17070. An estimate of 22 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,867 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 34,338 health care providers accessible to residents in 17070, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Primary Care and Asthma Management in New Cumberland, PA (ZIP Code 17070)**

New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, a borough nestled along the Susquehanna River, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This analysis, focusing on asthma management and primary care availability within the 17070 ZIP code, aims to provide an “Asthma Score” assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. The goal is to offer a comprehensive view, helping residents understand the strengths and weaknesses of their local healthcare system, particularly concerning asthma care.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible and high-quality primary care. In New Cumberland, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. While precise figures fluctuate, generally, the area experiences a moderate physician density. This means residents likely have reasonable access to primary care physicians, but significant shortages could lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained resources. This impacts asthma patients directly, as regular check-ups and timely intervention are essential for controlling the condition.

Assessing the quality of primary care practices requires a multifaceted approach. Factors to consider include the availability of board-certified physicians, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs), and the implementation of evidence-based asthma management protocols. Practices that consistently adhere to national guidelines, such as those set forth by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), are likely to offer superior care. Reviews from patients, although subjective, provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including factors like communication, empathy, and the overall effectiveness of treatment.

Standout practices in New Cumberland would be those that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care. This includes practices that proactively manage asthma, offering comprehensive education to patients on triggers, medication adherence, and self-management techniques. Practices that integrate asthma action plans into their patient care are crucial. These plans provide clear instructions for patients on how to manage their asthma symptoms, preventing exacerbations and reducing the need for emergency room visits. Furthermore, practices that participate in quality improvement initiatives, constantly striving to improve their asthma care outcomes, deserve recognition.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor. The ability to access healthcare remotely, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management, is a significant advantage for asthma patients. Telemedicine can reduce the burden of travel, especially for those with mobility limitations or those who live far from their primary care physician. The availability of telehealth services in New Cumberland is a key indicator of the healthcare system’s adaptability and its commitment to patient convenience. Practices that embrace telemedicine are better positioned to provide continuous care and improve patient outcomes.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they play a vital role. Asthma can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. The availability of mental health support within primary care practices or through referrals is crucial. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or readily connect patients with mental health professionals demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration is particularly important for asthma patients, as managing their emotional health can significantly improve their ability to manage their physical symptoms.

Evaluating the “Asthma Score” for New Cumberland involves synthesizing all these factors. The score would be a composite measure, weighing physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. A higher score would indicate a healthcare system that is well-equipped to manage asthma effectively, offering accessible, high-quality, and patient-centered care. A lower score would highlight areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, improving telemedicine infrastructure, and expanding mental health support.

Specific practices in New Cumberland would be evaluated based on their individual performance across these criteria. Practices that have a higher number of board-certified physicians, consistently implement asthma management protocols, actively use EHRs, offer telemedicine options, and provide access to mental health resources would receive higher scores. Practices that excel in patient communication and education, as evidenced by patient reviews, would also be recognized.

The presence of specialty care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, within a reasonable distance is another factor that contributes to the overall Asthma Score. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to specialists is essential for patients with complex or severe asthma. The proximity of specialists can significantly improve the quality of care, ensuring that patients receive the specialized treatment they need.

Furthermore, the availability of community resources, such as asthma support groups and educational programs, can enhance the Asthma Score. These resources provide patients with valuable support, education, and a sense of community. Practices that actively promote and partner with these resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic asthma management.

In conclusion, the “Asthma Score” for New Cumberland, PA (17070) reflects the complex interplay of various healthcare factors. While the area likely has reasonable access to primary care, the quality of care, telemedicine adoption, and mental health integration vary across practices. A comprehensive assessment would consider physician density, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and mental health resources. Continuous efforts to improve these areas are essential to ensure that residents with asthma receive the best possible care. Further investigation and data collection are needed to produce a definitive score, but this analysis provides a framework for understanding the key factors that influence asthma management in the community.

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