17212, Big Cove Tannery, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17212, Big Cove Tannery, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.48 percent of the residents in 17212 has some form of health insurance. 38.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.02 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 17212 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 100 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17212. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 132 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,485 health care providers accessible to residents in 17212, Big Cove Tannery, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: 17212 and Big Cove Tannery

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, especially regarding asthma management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the specific context of ZIP Code 17212 (Chambersburg, PA) and the primary care landscape of Big Cove Tannery, Pennsylvania, focusing on factors impacting asthma care, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine utilization, and mental health resources. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the challenges and opportunities within these communities, ultimately aiming to improve asthma outcomes.

**ZIP Code 17212 (Chambersburg, PA): A Deep Dive**

Chambersburg, the largest town in Franklin County, presents a complex healthcare environment. The presence of well-established hospitals, such as Chambersburg Hospital, suggests a potentially strong foundation for asthma care. However, simply having a hospital doesn't guarantee optimal care. The availability and accessibility of primary care physicians (PCPs) specializing in asthma management are crucial. Physician-to-patient ratios are a key indicator. A high ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. The Franklin County Medical Society likely has data on these ratios; accessing and analyzing this information is critical for a comprehensive assessment.

Beyond the numbers, the quality of care matters. Identifying standout practices within 17212 requires examining factors like patient satisfaction surveys, adherence to asthma treatment guidelines (e.g., those from the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program), and the availability of specialized services like pulmonary function testing. Practices that actively engage in patient education, offer asthma action plans, and provide readily available inhalers and medication refills are likely to achieve better patient outcomes. Furthermore, the integration of electronic health records (EHRs) can significantly improve care coordination and data tracking, allowing physicians to monitor asthma control and adjust treatment plans effectively.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical aspect. In a community like Chambersburg, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers and improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of symptoms, and online educational resources are better positioned to provide comprehensive asthma care. Investigating the availability of these services and their utilization rates is essential.

Mental health resources are also vital. Asthma is often associated with anxiety and depression, which can worsen symptoms and overall quality of life. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychologists and therapists, within the community, and their ability to collaborate with primary care physicians is essential. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate services are likely to provide more holistic care.

**Primary Care in Big Cove Tannery: A Rural Perspective**

Big Cove Tannery, being a rural community, likely faces unique challenges in accessing primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio is almost certainly a significant concern. Rural areas often experience a shortage of healthcare providers, making it difficult for residents to find timely and convenient medical care. This scarcity can lead to longer travel distances, reduced appointment availability, and a reliance on emergency room visits for asthma exacerbations.

The quality of care in Big Cove Tannery must be assessed within the context of its rural setting. Practices might be smaller, and resources may be limited compared to urban areas. However, this doesn't preclude the provision of high-quality care. Examining the practices' adherence to asthma treatment guidelines, their patient education efforts, and their ability to provide essential services like medication refills are crucial.

Telemedicine adoption becomes even more critical in rural areas. Virtual consultations can overcome geographical barriers, enabling patients to connect with specialists and receive timely medical advice. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services and their utilization rates is essential. Furthermore, the use of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and pulse oximeters, can empower patients to manage their asthma effectively at home.

Mental health resources are also vital in Big Cove Tannery. Rural communities often face higher rates of mental health issues due to factors like social isolation, economic hardship, and limited access to support services. Assessing the availability of mental health professionals and their ability to collaborate with primary care physicians is essential. Practices that proactively screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to appropriate services are likely to provide more holistic care.

**Concluding Thoughts**

Evaluating asthma care requires a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape. In both Chambersburg (17212) and Big Cove Tannery, assessing physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is essential. The specific challenges and opportunities will vary between these communities, but the overarching goal remains the same: to improve asthma outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with this chronic condition.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of these areas, and to gain a visual understanding of the distribution of resources and potential gaps in care, consider using CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide valuable insights into the geographical distribution of healthcare providers, patient demographics, and other relevant factors, helping to identify areas where improvements are most needed.