17103, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17103, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.88 percent of the residents in 17103 has some form of health insurance. 56.06 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.23 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 17103 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,835 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 55 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17103. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,255 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19,329 health care providers accessible to residents in 17103, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Asthma management within ZIP code 17103, encompassing a significant portion of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, presents a multifaceted challenge. This analysis, framed as an “Asthma Score,” considers factors impacting patient care, including physician availability, the integration of technology, and the provision of mental health support, all crucial components in effectively managing this chronic respiratory condition. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the landscape, not a simple numerical ranking.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental consideration. In 17103, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly influences access to asthma diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. High patient loads can limit the time physicians have to dedicate to each patient, potentially impacting the thoroughness of asthma assessments and the personalization of treatment plans. Conversely, a robust PCP presence allows for more frequent check-ins, medication adjustments, and patient education, all critical for asthma control. The overall PCP density within the area, coupled with the specific number of pulmonologists and allergists specializing in asthma care, paints a picture of the accessibility of specialized expertise.

Primary care availability in Harrisburg, as a whole, is a crucial factor. The city’s healthcare infrastructure must be able to handle the needs of its residents, including those with asthma. Long wait times for appointments, limited office hours, and a shortage of specialists can all hinder timely care. This can lead to increased asthma exacerbations, hospitalizations, and a diminished quality of life for patients. Assessing the number of PCPs accepting new patients, the availability of evening and weekend appointments, and the ease of communication with healthcare providers (e.g., phone access, email responsiveness) are all vital components of the primary care landscape.

Standout practices within 17103 demonstrate best practices in asthma management. These practices often prioritize patient education, providing comprehensive information about asthma triggers, medication usage, and self-management techniques. They may employ certified asthma educators who work closely with patients to develop personalized action plans. Furthermore, exemplary practices actively monitor patient outcomes, tracking metrics such as asthma control test scores and exacerbation rates. Their commitment to data-driven improvement allows them to continually refine their approach and optimize patient care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant advancement in asthma care. Remote consultations, virtual monitoring of symptoms, and the ability to receive medication refills electronically can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. Telemedicine also facilitates regular check-ins, allowing physicians to monitor asthma control and adjust treatment plans as needed. The availability of telemedicine services among practices in 17103, including the types of platforms used, the ease of scheduling virtual appointments, and the integration of telemedicine into the overall care model, are all key indicators of its impact.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they play a crucial role. Asthma can be a source of significant stress and anxiety, and uncontrolled asthma can negatively affect mental well-being. Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma care model demonstrate a holistic approach. This may involve screening for anxiety and depression, providing referrals to mental health professionals, and offering support groups for asthma patients. The availability of these resources, and the degree to which they are integrated into the overall care plan, significantly impacts the patient’s ability to manage their condition effectively.

The Asthma Score analysis also considers the presence of community resources. Local pharmacies, support groups, and educational programs can provide valuable assistance to asthma patients. Pharmacies play a crucial role in medication adherence, providing information about medications and offering services like medication synchronization. Support groups offer a platform for patients to connect with others who share similar experiences, providing emotional support and practical advice. Educational programs, often offered by hospitals or community health organizations, can empower patients with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their asthma effectively.

Assessing the accessibility of these resources, their quality, and their integration with the healthcare system, contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the asthma care landscape. The overall assessment goes beyond simple physician-to-patient ratios and considers the complex interplay of factors that influence patient outcomes.

The “Asthma Score” is not a static number, but rather a dynamic evaluation of the healthcare ecosystem. It requires ongoing monitoring and adaptation to reflect changes in physician availability, technological advancements, and community resources. The ultimate goal is to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for policies and programs that enhance asthma care within 17103 and the broader Harrisburg community. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations can work collaboratively to improve the lives of asthma patients.

To gain a deeper understanding of the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, including physician locations, hospital proximity, and community support services, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. Their interactive platform provides a visual representation of the healthcare landscape, allowing you to analyze the data and identify areas with the greatest need.