17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 68.38 percent of the residents in 17246 has some form of health insurance. 43.81 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 39.86 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 17246 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 148 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17246. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 57 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 9,974 health care providers accessible to residents in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Pleasant Hall, PA (ZIP Code 17246)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17246) requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the availability of primary care physicians but also the quality of care they deliver, the integration of modern technologies like telemedicine, and the crucial support systems for patients, particularly mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating the current situation and identifying areas for improvement.

Pleasant Hall, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities. The rural nature of the area might limit access to specialized care, while the close-knit community could foster strong patient-physician relationships. To begin, we must examine the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of primary care physicians, could lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial asthma management. Conversely, a high ratio suggests a more accessible healthcare system. Publicly available data, such as information from the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, can provide estimates of the population within the ZIP code. Comparing this to the number of practicing primary care physicians in the area will provide a preliminary physician-to-patient ratio.

Furthermore, we must investigate the specific practices within the area. Identifying standout practices requires evaluating several factors. Does a practice have a dedicated asthma management program? Do they utilize evidence-based guidelines for asthma treatment, such as those provided by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP)? Are they equipped with the necessary diagnostic tools, such as spirometry, to accurately assess lung function? Reviews from patients, although subjective, can also provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the responsiveness of the staff, and the overall patient experience. A practice that excels in these areas would receive a higher score, contributing positively to the overall "Asthma Score" for the region.

The adoption of telemedicine is another critical factor. Telemedicine, including video consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve asthma management, especially in rural areas. It allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for travel and facilitating more frequent check-ins. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring devices, would score higher. This technology allows for proactive management, enabling physicians to identify and address potential exacerbations before they escalate. The availability of telemedicine also provides a safety net, ensuring patients can receive timely care even during inclement weather or other access barriers.

Beyond medical treatment, the availability of mental health resources is paramount. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety and depression are common among individuals with asthma, and untreated mental health issues can worsen asthma symptoms and overall quality of life. Therefore, the "Asthma Score" must consider the availability of mental health services within the community. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, as well as support groups and educational programs. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and have established referral pathways to mental health professionals would receive a higher score. Integrating mental health care into asthma management is crucial for holistic patient care.

To assess the "Asthma Score," we must combine these factors. A hypothetical scoring system might assign points based on the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized asthma programs, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. For example, a practice with a low physician-to-patient ratio might receive a lower score, while a practice that fully embraces telemedicine and offers integrated mental health services would receive a significantly higher score. The final "Asthma Score" would then reflect the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care within Pleasant Hall.

The analysis should also consider the specific needs of the population. Are there any vulnerable populations, such as children or the elderly, who may require specialized care? Does the community have access to asthma education programs, such as those offered by the American Lung Association? These factors, although not directly related to the practices themselves, contribute to the overall environment of asthma care and should be considered when assessing the "Asthma Score."

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Pleasant Hall, PA (ZIP code 17246) is determined by a complex interplay of factors. The physician-to-patient ratio, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources all play crucial roles. A comprehensive assessment requires gathering data from multiple sources, including public health agencies, physician directories, and patient reviews. This assessment aims to provide a snapshot of the current situation, highlighting strengths and weaknesses in the asthma care landscape. This information can then be used to identify areas for improvement and advocate for better access to care for individuals with asthma.

To visualize this data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pleasant Hall and surrounding areas, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize physician locations, patient demographics, and access to resources, providing a powerful tool for analyzing and improving asthma care.