17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.82 percent of the residents in 17238 has some form of health insurance. 36.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.20 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 17238 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 374 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17238. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 394 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 528 health care providers accessible to residents in 17238, Needmore, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17238 & Primary Care in Needmore

This analysis delves into the availability of primary care and asthma management resources within ZIP Code 17238, focusing on the specific context of Needmore, Pennsylvania. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility and quality of care for individuals with asthma in this area. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

The foundation of any asthma management strategy is accessible primary care. In Needmore, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer PCPs relative to the population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment of asthma. Data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and local health departments are essential to determine this ratio accurately. Publicly available data, if accessible, regarding the number of PCPs actively practicing in Needmore, coupled with the population data for the ZIP Code, forms the basis of this initial assessment.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of care provided by these PCPs is paramount. The "Asthma Score" considers factors such as the experience of the physicians in treating asthma, their adherence to national asthma guidelines, and the availability of specialized asthma care within the primary care setting. Practices that actively engage in asthma education for patients, provide personalized asthma action plans, and utilize advanced diagnostic tools would receive higher scores. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) that facilitate care coordination and data tracking would also contribute positively to the score.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. This involves researching individual practices within the ZIP Code and evaluating their approach to asthma management. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offer comprehensive asthma management programs, and have a track record of positive patient outcomes deserve recognition. This evaluation should consider patient reviews, practice accreditations, and the availability of resources such as asthma educators or respiratory therapists. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice would significantly boost its score.

Telemedicine adoption is a significant factor in the "Asthma Score." Telemedicine offers a valuable tool for asthma management, particularly in rural areas like Needmore, where geographical barriers can limit access to care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online asthma education programs would receive higher scores. Telemedicine allows for more frequent check-ins, timely adjustments to treatment plans, and improved patient adherence to medication regimens. The ease of access and the potential for reduced healthcare costs are significant benefits.

The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is an increasingly important aspect of comprehensive treatment. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. Practices that recognize this connection and offer access to mental health services, either through in-house providers or referrals to external specialists, would receive a higher "Asthma Score." The availability of resources like support groups or mental health counseling specifically tailored to individuals with asthma is a key indicator of a holistic approach to care.

Specific examples within ZIP Code 17238 are challenging to provide without direct access to local healthcare data. However, the methodology remains consistent. The "Asthma Score" would evaluate each practice based on the criteria discussed above. The score would be a composite measure, reflecting the weighted average of these factors. For instance, a practice with a high physician-to-patient ratio but limited telemedicine adoption might receive a moderate score. Conversely, a practice with a lower ratio but strong telemedicine capabilities and integrated mental health resources could achieve a higher score.

The analysis needs to be updated regularly. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving. New practices open, existing ones adapt their services, and technological advancements continue to reshape the delivery of care. The "Asthma Score" should be a dynamic tool, reflecting the current state of asthma management resources in Needmore and the surrounding areas.

The "Asthma Score" should also incorporate a patient-centered perspective. The analysis should consider patient feedback and outcomes. Surveys, focus groups, and reviews from patients with asthma can provide valuable insights into their experiences with the healthcare system. This feedback can help to identify areas of strength and weakness in asthma management and inform recommendations for improvement.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 17238, particularly for Needmore, is a complex assessment. It requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care provided by primary care practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. The score is a valuable tool for individuals with asthma, healthcare providers, and policymakers. It helps to identify areas where improvements are needed and to promote the delivery of high-quality, accessible, and patient-centered asthma care.

For a comprehensive, interactive map visualizing the healthcare landscape, including physician locations, practice specialties, and resource availability within ZIP Code 17238 and beyond, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides an intuitive platform for visualizing and analyzing geospatial data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare access and identify opportunities for improvement.