17307, Biglerville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17307, Biglerville, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.95 percent of the residents in 17307 has some form of health insurance. 43.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 69.33 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 17307 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,196 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17307. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,311 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 7,404 health care providers accessible to residents in 17307, Biglerville, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Biglerville, PA (ZIP Code 17307)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality for asthma sufferers in Biglerville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17307) requires a multi-faceted approach. We will assess the landscape through an “Asthma Score” lens, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial factors impacting asthma management.

Biglerville, a small town in Adams County, presents unique challenges and opportunities for asthma care. The rural nature of the area often translates to limitations in healthcare access compared to more urban environments. A comprehensive analysis must consider these factors to provide a realistic assessment of the Asthma Score.

**Primary Care Availability:**

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on consistent primary care. Regular check-ups, medication management, and early intervention are critical for controlling the condition. In Biglerville, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a key determinant of the Asthma Score. We need to assess the number of PCPs practicing within the ZIP code and the surrounding areas that serve Biglerville residents. This includes considering the types of practices (e.g., solo practices, group practices, Federally Qualified Health Centers) and their respective patient loads. Are there enough PCPs to adequately serve the population, or are patients facing long wait times for appointments? Are practices accepting new patients, or are they at capacity? This information is vital in determining the accessibility of primary care, a core component of the Asthma Score. A shortage of PCPs would negatively impact the score, highlighting a potential barrier to care for asthma patients.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**

Beyond the raw number of PCPs, the physician-to-patient ratio offers a more nuanced understanding of access. This metric reveals the average number of patients each physician is responsible for. A higher ratio suggests a greater patient load per physician, potentially leading to longer wait times, shorter appointment durations, and reduced opportunities for comprehensive care. Conversely, a lower ratio indicates a more favorable environment for patients, with physicians potentially having more time to dedicate to each individual's needs. Researching the physician-to-patient ratio within the 17307 ZIP code and comparing it to regional and national averages provides a crucial benchmark. A significantly higher ratio would lower the Asthma Score, indicating a strain on the healthcare system and potential difficulties for asthma patients in accessing timely and appropriate care.

**Standout Practices:**

Identifying practices that excel in asthma management is essential. This involves researching practices known for their specialized asthma care, including board-certified allergists and pulmonologists who may be accessible to Biglerville residents. Are there any practices that offer comprehensive asthma education programs, including training on inhaler techniques, environmental control measures, and asthma action plans? Do any practices participate in quality improvement initiatives focused on asthma care, demonstrating a commitment to best practices? The presence of such standout practices would positively influence the Asthma Score, indicating the availability of high-quality, specialized care within or near the community. These practices serve as beacons of excellence, potentially improving outcomes for asthma sufferers.

**Telemedicine Adoption:**

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine can overcome geographical barriers, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely. Evaluating the adoption of telemedicine within Biglerville's healthcare system is crucial. Are PCPs and specialists offering virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication management, and asthma education? Do practices utilize remote monitoring technologies, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to healthcare providers? Widespread telemedicine adoption would significantly boost the Asthma Score, demonstrating a commitment to accessible and convenient care. Conversely, a lack of telemedicine integration would negatively impact the score, potentially limiting access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

**Mental Health Resources:**

Asthma, as a chronic condition, can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities, and the stress of managing the condition can exacerbate symptoms. Assessing the availability of mental health resources within Biglerville is therefore crucial. Are there mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, available in the area? Are these professionals experienced in treating patients with chronic illnesses? Do practices offer integrated mental health services, or do they have referral pathways to mental health providers? The presence of readily accessible mental health resources would positively influence the Asthma Score, recognizing the importance of holistic care. A lack of these resources would negatively impact the score, potentially leaving asthma patients without the necessary support to manage their condition effectively.

**Specifics and Nuances:**

This analysis requires delving into specific details. For example, the proximity of specialists outside of the 17307 ZIP code is important. Are there allergists and pulmonologists within a reasonable driving distance, and are they accepting new patients? Transportation challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles, must be considered. Public transportation options and ride-sharing services can influence access to care. Furthermore, the affordability of healthcare is paramount. The acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices and the availability of financial assistance programs for those with limited resources are essential factors. The quality of local pharmacies and their ability to provide asthma medications and devices also plays a crucial role.

**Conclusion:**

Evaluating the Asthma Score for Biglerville, PA (ZIP Code 17307) necessitates a comprehensive examination of primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The analysis must consider the unique challenges of a rural environment and the specific needs of asthma sufferers. A low Asthma Score would highlight areas needing improvement, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, and enhancing mental health support. A high score would indicate a healthcare system well-equipped to manage asthma effectively.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Biglerville and its surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of services, and other relevant data, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful tool for visualizing and analyzing healthcare data, providing a valuable resource for both patients and healthcare professionals.