17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.80 percent of the residents in 17228 has some form of health insurance. 39.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.40 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 17228 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 303 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17228. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 192 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 552 health care providers accessible to residents in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Harrisonville, PA (ZIP Code 17228)

Analyzing the landscape of asthma care in Harrisonville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17228) requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the number and quality of physicians, but also the accessibility of care, the integration of technology, and the availability of supportive resources, particularly mental health support. This analysis will provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, painting a picture of the strengths and weaknesses within the local healthcare ecosystem.

The core of any healthcare assessment is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Harrisonville, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of PCPs, can significantly impact asthma management. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis or treatment adjustments. Furthermore, a limited number of PCPs can strain existing resources, leading to less individualized care and potentially impacting patient outcomes. The ideal ratio allows for sufficient time for each patient, enabling thorough assessments and proactive asthma management strategies. We must investigate the specific number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and, more importantly, the patient load each physician carries.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. We need to evaluate the practices within Harrisonville. Are there any standout practices that excel in asthma management? This includes assessing the use of evidence-based guidelines, the availability of asthma educators, and the implementation of patient-centered care plans. We'll look for practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their asthma effectively. This includes educating patients on triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique. We need to see evidence of practices actively tracking patient outcomes and adjusting treatment plans accordingly.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine offers significant advantages for asthma management, particularly in a rural area like Harrisonville. It allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations, and medication refills, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for patients with poorly controlled asthma, who may require frequent adjustments to their medication. Telemedicine also improves access to specialists, such as pulmonologists, who may not be readily available in the immediate area. The availability and utilization of telemedicine platforms within the local practices will be a key component of our score.

Asthma is not just a physical condition; it can also significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma. The chronic nature of the disease, the fear of exacerbations, and the limitations it can impose on daily life can all contribute to mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is crucial for comprehensive asthma care. We need to assess the presence of mental health professionals within the practices or the accessibility of referrals to mental health services in the community. This includes access to therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups. The integration of mental health services into asthma care can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life.

Another area of investigation is the availability of specialized asthma care. Are there any pulmonologists or allergists practicing within or near Harrisonville? The presence of these specialists can significantly improve the quality of asthma management, particularly for patients with severe or difficult-to-control asthma. They can provide expert diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and specialized care. We must also assess the availability of pulmonary function testing and other diagnostic tools necessary for accurate asthma assessment.

Furthermore, we need to consider the accessibility of pharmacies and the availability of asthma medications. Are there pharmacies within the ZIP code that stock a wide range of asthma medications, including both maintenance and rescue inhalers? The ease of access to medications is crucial for ensuring that patients can adhere to their treatment plans. We'll also assess the affordability of medications, considering the availability of patient assistance programs and other resources that can help patients afford their medications.

The “Asthma Score” will be a composite metric, considering all these factors. A high score would indicate a robust healthcare ecosystem, with a sufficient number of PCPs, high-quality practices, widespread telemedicine adoption, readily available mental health resources, and access to specialists. Conversely, a low score would suggest a need for improvement in one or more of these areas. The specific weighting of each factor will be determined based on its perceived impact on asthma management and patient outcomes.

The score will also reflect the level of patient education and engagement. Practices that actively educate patients about their condition, empower them to manage their asthma, and provide them with the tools they need to succeed will receive higher scores. This includes providing patients with written asthma action plans, teaching them how to use their inhalers correctly, and educating them about their triggers.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma care landscape in Harrisonville (ZIP Code 17228) is a complex undertaking. It requires a comprehensive analysis of physician availability, practice quality, technology adoption, mental health resources, and access to medications. The “Asthma Score” will provide a valuable snapshot of the current state of care, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these nuances is essential for improving asthma management and ensuring that residents of Harrisonville receive the best possible care. This analysis will provide a foundation for targeted interventions and improvements.

For a comprehensive visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Harrisonville, including physician locations, practice details, and resource availability, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the accessibility of care and help identify areas for improvement.