17267, Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17267, Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.73 percent of the residents in 17267 has some form of health insurance. 38.50 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.12 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 17267 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 566 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17267. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 607 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 361 health care providers accessible to residents in 17267, Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania.

The analysis focuses on asthma care accessibility and quality within the ZIP code 17267, encompassing Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania, with a particular emphasis on primary care availability. This assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, prominent medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources, all factors influencing the overall ‘Asthma Score’ for residents.

Warfordsburg, a rural community, likely faces challenges in healthcare access compared to more urban areas. Physician density, a crucial determinant of access, is potentially lower. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio is paramount. Data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and professional medical associations can reveal the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists practicing within the ZIP code or its immediate vicinity. This data, coupled with population figures, allows for calculating a ratio reflecting the availability of doctors per 1,000 residents. A lower ratio suggests greater difficulty in securing timely appointments and consistent care, especially vital for managing a chronic condition like asthma.

The presence of standout medical practices significantly impacts the ‘Asthma Score.’ Identifying practices with a demonstrated commitment to asthma management is essential. This involves investigating whether practices have specialized asthma clinics, offer comprehensive asthma education programs for patients and families, and adhere to the latest asthma guidelines from organizations like the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) or the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP). Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care and emergency services within the area is crucial for managing asthma exacerbations. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide personalized care plans, and actively monitor asthma control through regular assessments contribute to a higher ‘Asthma Score.’

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, particularly in rural areas. The ability to access virtual consultations with PCPs or specialists can overcome geographical barriers and improve asthma management. Assessing the extent of telemedicine integration within local practices is critical. This includes determining whether practices offer virtual appointments for routine check-ups, medication refills, and asthma education. Telemedicine can facilitate remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, enabling physicians to intervene promptly if a patient's condition deteriorates. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially improve the ‘Asthma Score’ by enhancing accessibility and providing more convenient care options.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are integral to asthma management. Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact a patient’s mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within the community is crucial. This involves identifying whether local practices have integrated mental health professionals into their care teams or have established referral pathways to mental health providers. Access to mental health support can help patients cope with the psychological challenges associated with asthma, improving their adherence to treatment plans and overall asthma control. Practices that recognize the interconnectedness of physical and mental health and provide access to mental health services contribute to a higher ‘Asthma Score.’

Specific practices within the area should be examined. For example, the presence of a practice affiliated with a larger healthcare system, such as UPMC or Geisinger, could indicate access to a wider range of specialists and resources. Analyzing online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites can reveal insights into the quality of care provided by individual physicians and practices. This information should be cross-referenced with data on physician credentials, board certifications, and participation in quality improvement initiatives. The practices that consistently demonstrate high-quality asthma care, patient satisfaction, and a commitment to innovation will likely contribute positively to the overall ‘Asthma Score.’

The ‘Asthma Score’ is not a static metric; it’s a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape. The availability of primary care physicians is a fundamental element. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate asthma management, and increased emergency room visits. Conversely, a robust primary care network, coupled with accessible specialist care, telemedicine options, and mental health support, can significantly improve the ‘Asthma Score’ and the overall health outcomes for individuals with asthma in Warfordsburg.

The analysis should consider the specific demographics of the Warfordsburg population. Factors like age, socioeconomic status, and access to transportation can influence healthcare access and asthma management. For example, a community with a large elderly population may require more geriatric-focused asthma care. Similarly, individuals with limited financial resources may face challenges in affording medications and accessing necessary healthcare services. A comprehensive assessment of the local healthcare ecosystem should incorporate these demographic considerations to provide a more nuanced and accurate ‘Asthma Score.’

The assessment of mental health resources needs to go beyond simply identifying the presence of providers. It should evaluate the types of mental health services available, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and medication management. It should also assess the accessibility of these services, including insurance coverage, wait times for appointments, and the availability of services in multiple languages. The integration of mental health services into asthma care can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

In conclusion, the ‘Asthma Score’ for Warfordsburg (17267) is determined by a complex interplay of factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of medical practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A comprehensive analysis, considering these elements and demographic nuances, provides a more accurate assessment of the asthma care landscape.

To gain a visual understanding of healthcare resources in Warfordsburg and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice details, and service availability, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a comprehensive geographic overview of the healthcare landscape.