17302, Airville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17302, Airville, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.01 percent of the residents in 17302 has some form of health insurance. 30.60 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.17 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 17302 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 321 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17302. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 553 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,286 health care providers accessible to residents in 17302, Airville, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17302 & Primary Care in Airville

This analysis delves into the accessibility and quality of asthma care within ZIP code 17302, encompassing the Airville, Pennsylvania area. We will examine key indicators impacting asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health support, culminating in an overall Asthma Score assessment. This score aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in this specific geographic area.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial starting point. Within ZIP code 17302, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists directly impacts access to initial diagnoses, ongoing management, and specialist consultations. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, alongside publicly available physician directories, reveals a potential challenge. The physician-to-patient ratio in this rural area may be less favorable compared to more urbanized regions. This suggests that residents might face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying timely interventions for asthma exacerbations. The limited number of specialists further compounds this issue, making prompt access to pulmonologists, crucial for complex cases, a potential hurdle.

Standout practices, those demonstrating excellence in asthma care, are critical to identify. These practices often employ evidence-based protocols, utilize advanced diagnostic tools, and prioritize patient education. Research into local practices, including reviews on platforms like Healthgrades and Vitals, can reveal insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care provided. Key indicators include the use of standardized asthma action plans, regular spirometry testing to assess lung function, and proactive management of asthma triggers. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing educational resources and promoting self-management strategies, are likely to achieve better outcomes.

Telemedicine adoption is another vital aspect. The ability to access healthcare remotely can significantly improve asthma management, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those residing in geographically isolated areas. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of symptoms. Examining the telehealth capabilities of local practices, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring tools, is essential. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially mitigate the challenges posed by limited physician availability and improve access to care for residents of Airville and surrounding areas.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, yet their impact is significant. Asthma can be a chronic condition that contributes to anxiety and depression. Therefore, the availability of mental health support within the healthcare system is crucial. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Assessing the presence of these resources, including the accessibility of mental health professionals and the integration of mental health screenings into routine asthma care, is a key factor in the Asthma Score assessment.

To determine the Asthma Score, we must synthesize the information gathered. A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for asthma sufferers, characterized by a higher physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices employing evidence-based protocols, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score would reflect potential challenges in accessing and managing asthma care. The final score, on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 representing the best possible scenario, would be a composite measure of all the factors discussed.

For ZIP code 17302, the initial assessment suggests a potentially moderate Asthma Score. The limited physician-to-patient ratio, particularly the scarcity of pulmonologists, presents a challenge. However, the presence of practices with positive patient reviews and a demonstrated commitment to patient education could improve the score. The extent of telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health services will be crucial determinants. Further investigation is needed to ascertain the specific features of local practices and the availability of mental health support.

Primary care availability in Airville is a key factor influencing the overall Asthma Score. Since primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for asthma patients, their accessibility is paramount. The geographical distribution of PCPs within Airville, along with their acceptance of various insurance plans, impacts access to care. The presence of walk-in clinics or urgent care centers, providing immediate care for asthma exacerbations, can also contribute to a higher score.

The overall Asthma Score for this area will be a dynamic measure, subject to change as healthcare practices evolve and new resources become available. Regular monitoring of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health support is essential to ensure an accurate assessment. This analysis provides a snapshot of the current situation, offering valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers.

To further explore the healthcare landscape in ZIP code 17302 and gain a visual understanding of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, we encourage you to utilize CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, enabling you to explore the area's healthcare resources in detail. This visual approach can help you identify the most accessible healthcare options and make informed decisions about your asthma care.