17235, Marion, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17235, Marion, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 62.47 percent of the residents in 17235 has some form of health insurance. 44.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 35.25 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 17235 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 275 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17235. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 157 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,531 health care providers accessible to residents in 17235, Marion, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17235 & Marion Primary Care

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 17235, encompassing a portion of Marion, requires a multi-faceted approach, particularly when assessing asthma care and primary care accessibility. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the specific resources available for asthma management, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services, ultimately painting a picture of the overall healthcare ecosystem.

The foundation of this analysis hinges on the availability of primary care physicians. Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for conditions like asthma. While precise physician-to-patient ratios require access to proprietary datasets, publicly available information can offer clues. Examining the number of primary care practices within the ZIP code, the size of their patient panels, and the reported appointment availability provides a preliminary understanding. Further investigation should involve cross-referencing these figures with national averages to gauge the relative accessibility of primary care in 17235.

Asthma management, in particular, demands a proactive and accessible primary care system. Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease, necessitating regular check-ups, medication management, and patient education. The quality of asthma care is heavily influenced by the expertise of the primary care physicians and the availability of specialized resources. Are there practices that specifically highlight asthma management as a core service? Do these practices offer spirometry testing, a crucial diagnostic tool for asthma? Are there certified asthma educators on staff to help patients understand their condition and manage their triggers? These factors are crucial in determining the quality of asthma care within the ZIP code.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into their services and patient outcomes. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management often implement comprehensive care plans. This might include regular asthma action plans tailored to each patient's needs, medication reviews, and education on environmental control measures. Furthermore, practices that actively monitor patient outcomes, such as asthma exacerbation rates and hospitalizations, are likely to be more effective in managing the disease. Patient reviews and testimonials, though subjective, can also provide valuable insights into the patient experience and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine adoption represents a significant opportunity to improve access to care, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of symptoms. This can be especially beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have mobility limitations. Assessing the telemedicine capabilities of primary care practices in 17235 involves investigating whether they offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring tools, and secure patient portals for communication and medication management. The availability of telemedicine can significantly impact the accessibility and convenience of asthma care.

The integration of mental health resources is another crucial aspect of a comprehensive healthcare system. Asthma, like many chronic illnesses, can have a significant impact on mental well-being. Anxiety and depression are common among asthma patients, and untreated mental health issues can worsen asthma symptoms and reduce adherence to treatment plans. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices or through referrals is crucial. Do practices offer on-site mental health professionals, or do they have established referral networks to mental health specialists? Are there resources available to address the emotional and psychological challenges associated with asthma? The integration of mental health services is vital for holistic asthma care.

The overall assessment of primary care availability in Marion, particularly within ZIP Code 17235, should consider the broader context of healthcare access in the region. This involves evaluating the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, who can provide specialized care for asthma patients. It also involves examining the availability of emergency services, such as urgent care centers and hospitals, that can manage asthma exacerbations. The presence of community health centers and other safety-net providers can also play a significant role in ensuring access to care for all residents.

The analysis should also consider demographic factors. The prevalence of asthma varies across different populations, and understanding the demographic makeup of 17235 is crucial. Are there specific populations, such as children or individuals with lower socioeconomic status, who may be disproportionately affected by asthma? Addressing health disparities requires tailoring healthcare services to the specific needs of the community. This might involve providing culturally sensitive care, offering language assistance, and addressing social determinants of health, such as housing and environmental factors.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of asthma care and primary care availability in ZIP Code 17235 requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician-to-patient ratios, asthma-specific resources, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis is not merely a snapshot of the current situation; it is a call for continuous improvement and a commitment to providing accessible, high-quality care for all residents.

For a more detailed visual representation of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 17235 and Marion, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and resource availability, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. This platform provides a dynamic and insightful way to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.