17110, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17110, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 96 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.64 percent of the residents in 17110 has some form of health insurance. 39.25 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.60 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 17110 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 5,672 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 50 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17110. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,734 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 18,243 health care providers accessible to residents in 17110, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Harrisburg, PA (ZIP Code 17110)**

This analysis provides an assessment of asthma care quality and primary care availability within Harrisburg, Pennsylvania's 17110 ZIP code. The evaluation considers factors crucial for asthma management, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine integration, and the accessibility of mental health resources, all of which contribute to an "Asthma Score" that reflects the overall healthcare landscape. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to individuals managing asthma in this specific area.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator of access to care. In 17110, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists directly impacts the ability of asthma patients to receive timely diagnoses, treatment, and ongoing management. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and ultimately, poorer asthma control. Data suggests that the ratio in this area may be strained, potentially leading to challenges for patients seeking prompt medical attention. Further investigation into the specific numbers of pulmonologists and PCPs serving the area is crucial for a more precise evaluation.

Standout practices in the area can significantly influence the quality of asthma care. These practices often demonstrate excellence in patient education, adherence to evidence-based guidelines, and the utilization of innovative treatment approaches. Identifying these practices involves evaluating factors such as the practice's commitment to providing comprehensive asthma education, the use of patient-centered care models, and the availability of specialized services like allergy testing and immunotherapy. Practices that actively participate in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives often demonstrate a higher level of commitment to patient outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important in asthma management, particularly in areas with limited access to care. Telemedicine offers the potential for remote consultations, medication management, and patient education, thereby reducing the need for in-person visits and improving access for patients with mobility limitations or those living in underserved areas. The extent to which practices in 17110 have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring tools, and patient portals, is a key factor in assessing the overall quality of asthma care. Practices that have successfully integrated telemedicine into their workflow often demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved care coordination.

The integration of mental health resources is also a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Access to mental health services, including counseling and support groups, is essential for addressing these issues and improving patient outcomes. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals within the primary care practices, as well as the presence of community-based mental health resources, is a crucial element in assessing the overall quality of asthma care in 17110.

Primary care availability in Harrisburg is also a factor. A robust primary care system is the foundation for effective asthma management. PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for patients experiencing asthma symptoms, providing initial diagnoses, treatment plans, and referrals to specialists when necessary. The availability of PCPs, including their geographic distribution, appointment availability, and acceptance of various insurance plans, significantly influences the accessibility of asthma care. Areas with a shortage of PCPs may experience longer wait times for appointments and reduced access to care, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and suboptimal asthma control.

Specific practices in 17110 should be evaluated based on their adherence to asthma guidelines. The National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for asthma diagnosis, treatment, and management. Practices that consistently adhere to these guidelines, including the use of appropriate medications, regular monitoring of lung function, and patient education, are more likely to achieve positive patient outcomes. Evaluating the practice's documentation of asthma control measures, such as symptom frequency, medication use, and exacerbation history, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

Furthermore, patient education plays a crucial role in asthma management. Patients who are well-informed about their condition, including their triggers, medications, and self-management strategies, are better equipped to control their asthma and prevent exacerbations. Practices that provide comprehensive asthma education, including written materials, individual counseling, and group classes, often demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to take an active role in their care. Assessing the availability and quality of patient education resources is an important aspect of evaluating the overall quality of asthma care.

The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is also important. EHRs can improve care coordination, facilitate data sharing, and support the implementation of evidence-based guidelines. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can track patient progress, identify trends in asthma control, and tailor treatment plans to individual patient needs. Evaluating the practice's use of EHRs, including the ability to access patient data, share information with other providers, and generate reports on asthma outcomes, can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

The presence of community resources, such as asthma support groups, educational programs, and free or low-cost clinics, can enhance the overall quality of asthma care. These resources provide patients with additional support, education, and access to care, particularly for those with limited financial resources or those living in underserved areas. Identifying the availability and accessibility of these resources is an important aspect of evaluating the overall healthcare landscape for asthma patients in 17110.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for 17110 involves a multifaceted evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and primary care availability. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the resources available to individuals managing asthma in this specific area. Further research and data collection are needed to provide a more precise assessment of the healthcare landscape.

Would you like to explore the geographical distribution of these resources and identify potential gaps in care? **Click here to explore the healthcare landscape of Harrisburg, PA (17110) with CartoChrome maps.**