17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.44 percent of the residents in 17236 has some form of health insurance. 33.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.28 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 17236 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,682 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17236. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,577 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 10,717 health care providers accessible to residents in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on asthma care and primary care access within ZIP code 17236 (Mercersburg, Pennsylvania). This assessment considers factors influencing asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, technology integration, and mental health support. The aim is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape for residents managing asthma in this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a critical indicator of access. Determining the exact ratio within 17236 requires accessing data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, cross-referenced with physician directories. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, potentially leads to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and increased challenges in managing chronic conditions like asthma. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, facilitating proactive care and timely interventions. This analysis assumes, based on publicly available information, that Mercersburg, being a rural community, likely faces a physician shortage compared to more urban areas. This scarcity impacts primary care availability, which directly affects asthma patients.

Primary care availability is the cornerstone of effective asthma management. Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often the first point of contact for asthma patients, providing initial diagnoses, developing treatment plans, and coordinating care with specialists. The availability of PCPs in Mercersburg, including their willingness to accept new patients and the range of services they offer, is paramount. Factors like the number of PCPs actively practicing, their office hours, and their responsiveness to patient needs all contribute to the overall quality of care. The presence of urgent care facilities or walk-in clinics can supplement primary care, particularly for acute asthma exacerbations, but these should not be considered a replacement for consistent, ongoing care.

Standout practices in the area can be identified by evaluating factors like patient reviews, the adoption of best practices in asthma management (e.g., adherence to national guidelines), and the integration of technology. Practices demonstrating a commitment to patient education, offering comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively monitoring patient outcomes are likely to be considered high-performing. Further, practices that prioritize communication, both with patients and other healthcare providers, foster a collaborative approach to care, which is particularly beneficial for managing a chronic condition like asthma. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is another positive indicator.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant in healthcare, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to expand access to care, particularly for patients who may face geographical barriers or have limited mobility. Telehealth consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and virtual asthma education sessions can improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. The degree to which practices in 17236 have embraced telemedicine, including the availability of virtual appointments and the use of remote monitoring devices, directly influences the accessibility and convenience of asthma care. The success of telemedicine also hinges on reliable internet access for patients, which can be a challenge in rural areas.

Mental health resources are an essential component of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services, including therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is crucial for addressing these issues. Practices that screen for mental health concerns, offer referrals to mental health professionals, or integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being. Collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health providers is essential for providing coordinated and effective care.

The assessment of mental health resources should also consider the availability of support groups and educational programs. These resources can provide patients with valuable coping strategies, emotional support, and a sense of community. Furthermore, access to mental health services must be affordable and accessible, considering factors like insurance coverage and transportation options. A practice that proactively addresses mental health needs, in conjunction with asthma management, is likely to be a standout performer.

In summary, the asthma score for doctors in ZIP code 17236 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of primary care, the characteristics of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. In a rural setting like Mercersburg, addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine, and ensuring access to mental health services are particularly important for improving asthma management. The goal is to provide a comprehensive and accessible healthcare experience for all residents.

To gain a visual and detailed understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mercersburg, including physician locations, primary care availability, and potential areas for improvement, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide an interactive and data-rich visualization of healthcare resources, allowing you to identify trends, assess access, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.