The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 96.10 percent of the residents in 17320 has some form of health insurance. 35.00 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.37 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 17320 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.
For the 1,787 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17320. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,594 residents over the age of 65 years.
In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,977 health care providers accessible to residents in 17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania.
Health Scores in 17320, Fairfield, Pennsylvania
Asthma Score | 77 |
---|---|
People Score | 60 |
Provider Score | 51 |
Hospital Score | 60 |
Travel Score | 62 |
17320 | Fairfield | Pennsylvania | |
---|---|---|---|
Providers per 10,000 residents | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Pediatricians per 10,000 residents under 18 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
Geriatricians per 10,000 residents over 65 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
## Asthma Score Analysis: Fairfield, PA (ZIP Code 17320)
Analyzing the quality of asthma care in Fairfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17320) requires a multifaceted approach, considering not only the availability of physicians but also the broader healthcare ecosystem. This analysis will explore the landscape of primary care, examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the presence of mental health resources, ultimately providing an “Asthma Score” assessment for the region.
Fairfield, a small community, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The rural nature of the area often translates to limited access to specialized medical care, including pulmonologists and allergists. This necessitates a strong foundation in primary care, where general practitioners play a crucial role in initial diagnosis, management, and referral for asthma patients.
**Primary Care Availability and Physician-to-Patient Ratios:**
Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP code 17320 requires accessing specific demographic data and physician licensing information. However, general observations can be made. Rural areas frequently experience a shortage of primary care physicians compared to urban centers. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for asthma sufferers. Analyzing the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, in conjunction with the population size, will offer a more precise understanding of this ratio. Public health agencies and local hospitals often maintain this data, which is crucial for assessing the accessibility of care.
The availability of primary care physicians is paramount for asthma management. They are the initial point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms. They can diagnose asthma, prescribe medications, and develop personalized asthma action plans. Moreover, they monitor the patient's condition over time, adjusting treatment as needed. The accessibility of this crucial initial step significantly impacts the overall asthma score.
**Standout Practices and Quality of Care:**
Identifying “standout practices” necessitates evaluating several factors. These include the use of evidence-based guidelines in asthma management, patient satisfaction scores, and the integration of technology to improve patient outcomes. Practices that actively engage patients in their care, providing education about asthma triggers, medication usage, and proper inhaler technique, are likely to demonstrate better outcomes.
Furthermore, practices that offer after-hours care or have readily available on-call physicians contribute to a higher asthma score. Asthma attacks can occur at any time, and prompt access to medical attention is critical for preventing severe complications. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is another positive indicator, as they can provide specialized support and education to patients.
**Telemedicine Adoption:**
Telemedicine has the potential to bridge the geographical gap and improve access to care, especially in rural areas like Fairfield. The adoption of telemedicine for asthma management can take various forms, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication refills. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater flexibility and convenience to patients, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.
The availability of telehealth options can be particularly beneficial for patients with chronic asthma, allowing for regular monitoring and timely adjustments to treatment plans. This can help prevent exacerbations and improve overall asthma control. Assessing the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care physicians in the area is crucial for evaluating the asthma score.
**Mental Health Resources:**
Asthma, being a chronic condition, can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities among asthma patients. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and provide access to mental health professionals, either within the practice or through referral, demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.
The presence of mental health support can improve patient adherence to treatment plans, reduce the frequency of asthma exacerbations, and enhance the overall quality of life for asthma sufferers. Evaluating the integration of mental health services into the healthcare ecosystem is a vital factor in assessing the asthma score.
**Asthma Score Assessment:**
Based on the factors discussed, an asthma score for Fairfield, PA (ZIP code 17320) would be determined by a weighted assessment. The primary care availability and physician-to-patient ratio would carry significant weight, as they directly impact access to care. The presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources would also contribute to the overall score, reflecting the quality and comprehensiveness of care available.
A higher score would indicate a more favorable environment for asthma patients, characterized by readily accessible primary care, practices that prioritize patient education and engagement, the integration of technology to improve care, and the availability of mental health support. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing timely and comprehensive asthma care.
**Conclusion:**
Assessing the asthma score for Fairfield, PA (ZIP code 17320) is a dynamic process that requires ongoing monitoring and evaluation. By analyzing the availability of primary care, physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of care offered by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape can be achieved. This information can then be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better asthma care for the community.
**Call to Action:**
Want to visualize the healthcare landscape in Fairfield, PA, and surrounding areas? Explore CartoChrome maps to gain a deeper understanding of physician locations, healthcare access, and resource distribution. CartoChrome offers powerful mapping tools that can help you analyze and interpret the data discussed in this analysis, providing valuable insights into the availability and accessibility of asthma care.
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