17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.90 percent of the residents in 17255 has some form of health insurance. 49.70 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.27 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 17255 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 279 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17255. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 314 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,791 health care providers accessible to residents in 17255, Shade Gap, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17255 & Shade Gap Primary Care

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 17255, encompassing a portion of Shade Gap, Pennsylvania, and evaluates its asthma care landscape, particularly concerning primary care availability. This assessment aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to asthma sufferers, considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources.

Evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial first step. The availability of primary care physicians directly impacts the ability of asthma patients to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing management, and emergency care. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with population estimates for ZIP Code 17255 and the surrounding areas, is essential. This data would allow for the calculation of a physician-to-patient ratio, revealing the potential strain on existing resources. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of physicians, could lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially poorer asthma control. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare system.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care provided by primary care practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 17255 requires a review of patient reviews, accreditation status, and the availability of specialized asthma care. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to asthma management often have dedicated asthma educators, offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing, and actively participate in asthma-related research or community outreach programs. These practices are vital for providing holistic care that goes beyond simply prescribing medication.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within primary care practices in the target area is crucial. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of patients’ symptoms, and online access to medical records can significantly improve accessibility, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Telemedicine allows for more frequent check-ins, enabling physicians to proactively manage asthma triggers and adjust treatment plans as needed. Investigating the presence of these technologies and their utilization rates provides a measure of how well the local healthcare system is adapting to modern healthcare delivery methods.

The interplay between asthma and mental health is often underestimated. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Conversely, mental health issues can exacerbate asthma symptoms and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Evaluating the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is, therefore, essential. This includes assessing whether practices have mental health professionals on staff, offer referrals to mental health specialists, and provide resources for managing stress and anxiety. Practices that recognize the connection between physical and mental health are better equipped to provide comprehensive care for asthma patients.

Focusing on Shade Gap specifically, the analysis must consider the unique challenges of a rural community. Rural areas often face shortages of healthcare providers, limited access to specialized services, and transportation barriers. Therefore, assessing the availability of primary care within Shade Gap requires a careful examination of the geographic distribution of physicians, the availability of public transportation, and the presence of community health centers. Strategies for improving access in rural areas may include mobile health clinics, telehealth initiatives, and partnerships with regional hospitals.

Data collection and analysis are vital for a comprehensive evaluation. This requires gathering information from various sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health, local hospitals, primary care practices, and patient surveys. The data should be organized and analyzed to create an "Asthma Score" that reflects the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care in ZIP Code 17255 and Shade Gap. The score should consider the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialized asthma care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources.

The Asthma Score should provide a clear and concise assessment of the healthcare landscape, highlighting areas of strength and weakness. The score could be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access to and quality of asthma care. This information can then be used to inform healthcare planning, identify areas for improvement, and guide patients in selecting the best possible care.

The analysis should also consider the socioeconomic factors that may impact asthma outcomes. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and poor housing conditions can all contribute to asthma triggers and exacerbate symptoms. The analysis should consider the demographics of the area, including income levels, housing quality, and access to social services. This information can be used to identify vulnerable populations and develop targeted interventions to improve asthma outcomes.

Furthermore, the analysis should include a review of local asthma-related resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives. These resources can provide valuable support to asthma patients and their families, helping them to manage their condition effectively. The analysis should assess the availability and accessibility of these resources, as well as their effectiveness in improving asthma outcomes.

Finally, the analysis should be dynamic and updated regularly. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and policies emerging. The Asthma Score should be updated periodically to reflect these changes and ensure that the information remains accurate and relevant. This ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential for ensuring that asthma patients in ZIP Code 17255 and Shade Gap have access to the best possible care.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, population density, and other relevant data, consider using interactive maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing complex data and gaining a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to create informative and engaging visualizations that support your analysis and help you advocate for improved asthma care in your community.