17266, Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17266, Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 69.61 percent of the residents in 17266 has some form of health insurance. 34.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.88 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 17266 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 90 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17266. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 85 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,923 health care providers accessible to residents in 17266, Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Walnut Bottom, PA (ZIP Code 17266)

This analysis delves into the availability and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 17266 (Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania), focusing on primary care physician accessibility and the broader healthcare landscape. We aim to assess the "Asthma Score" for this region, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial for effective asthma management.

Walnut Bottom, a small community in Franklin County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. Its rural setting often translates to lower physician density compared to urban areas, potentially impacting access to timely and specialized care for chronic conditions like asthma. The analysis will highlight specific aspects of the healthcare infrastructure within this ZIP code.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Accessibility:**

Determining an accurate physician-to-patient ratio in Walnut Bottom requires analyzing data from multiple sources, including the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the American Medical Association, and local healthcare providers. Due to the limited scope of this analysis, an exact ratio cannot be provided. However, based on publicly available data and general trends in rural areas, we can infer that the physician-to-patient ratio likely falls below the national average. This means that each physician in the area may be responsible for a larger patient population, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced individual attention.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the cornerstone of asthma management. They often serve as the initial point of contact, diagnosing the condition, prescribing medication, and providing ongoing monitoring. The availability of PCPs in Walnut Bottom, and their ability to accept new patients, is a critical factor in the Asthma Score. Limited PCP availability can force patients to seek care in emergency rooms or delay necessary treatment, exacerbating asthma symptoms and increasing healthcare costs.

**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors, including the qualifications and experience of the physicians, the availability of specialized asthma care (e.g., pulmonologists or allergists), and patient satisfaction levels. While specific practice names cannot be mentioned, we can examine general indicators. Practices that offer comprehensive asthma management programs, including patient education, peak flow meter training, and regular follow-up appointments, generally score higher. Those that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) and patient portals for improved communication and medication management also contribute to a higher score.

Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based medicine and adhere to national guidelines for asthma treatment are crucial. This includes prescribing appropriate medications, monitoring lung function, and developing individualized asthma action plans for patients. The quality of care provided directly impacts the Asthma Score, with practices that prioritize patient outcomes and provide proactive management strategies receiving higher ratings.

**Telemedicine Adoption and its Impact:**

Telemedicine offers a promising solution to address the challenges of healthcare access in rural areas. It allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving convenience. The adoption of telemedicine by practices in Walnut Bottom is a significant factor in the Asthma Score. Practices that offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring of lung function, and online prescription refills can significantly improve asthma management, especially for patients with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

Telemedicine can also facilitate access to specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, who may not be readily available in the local area. This can improve the accuracy of diagnosis, optimize treatment plans, and reduce the need for costly hospitalizations. The integration of telemedicine into the healthcare delivery system is therefore a crucial element in assessing the Asthma Score.

**Mental Health Resources and Asthma Management:**

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can trigger anxiety and depression, and these conditions can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. The availability of mental health resources in Walnut Bottom is therefore an essential component of the Asthma Score. Practices that screen for mental health conditions and offer referrals to therapists or counselors demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals is also crucial. This can involve co-managing patients with both asthma and mental health conditions, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care. The presence of mental health support services, either within the primary care practices or through external referrals, significantly enhances the Asthma Score.

**Overall Asthma Score and Conclusion:**

Based on the factors discussed, the Asthma Score for Walnut Bottom (ZIP code 17266) is likely moderate. The rural setting presents challenges in physician accessibility, particularly in terms of primary care. While there may be practices that provide high-quality care, the overall availability of specialized asthma services and mental health resources might be limited. The adoption of telemedicine could improve access to care, but its widespread implementation remains to be seen.

The Asthma Score can be improved by increasing the number of primary care physicians, encouraging the adoption of telemedicine, and expanding access to mental health services. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and public health agencies is essential to create a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to asthma management.

For a detailed visual representation of healthcare resources, physician locations, and population demographics within Walnut Bottom and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.