17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.71 percent of the residents in 17324 has some form of health insurance. 37.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.91 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 17324 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 735 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17324. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,059 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,042 health care providers accessible to residents in 17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 17324, encompassing Gardners, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. We'll examine the availability of primary care physicians, particularly in relation to asthma management, and assess the overall quality of care available to residents. This analysis will incorporate physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all critical components of a comprehensive asthma score assessment.

The core of our investigation is the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In a rural area like Gardners, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses and treatment for chronic conditions like asthma. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and the potential for more proactive management of respiratory illnesses. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, when combined with information from healthcare directories, can help determine the approximate physician-to-patient ratio within the specified ZIP code.

Beyond the raw numbers, we need to assess the quality of care offered by the available PCPs. This involves examining their approach to asthma management. Do they follow established guidelines from organizations like the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Do they routinely assess asthma control using standardized questionnaires? Do they offer patient education on proper inhaler technique and environmental control measures? Practices that prioritize these elements are likely to provide superior asthma care.

Identifying "standout practices" requires a deeper dive. This includes researching physician credentials, patient reviews, and practice accreditations. Practices with board-certified physicians in relevant specialties (e.g., pulmonology, allergy/immunology) are often better equipped to manage complex asthma cases. Positive patient reviews often highlight practices that prioritize patient communication, empathy, and a proactive approach to care. Accreditation by organizations like the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can also indicate a commitment to quality and patient-centered care.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in our asthma score assessment. In rural areas, telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access care remotely. This is particularly beneficial for asthma patients, who may need regular check-ins to monitor their condition and adjust their medication. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient portals are likely to provide a more convenient and accessible level of care.

The integration of mental health resources is also a significant aspect of asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that have integrated mental health services, either through in-house therapists or referrals to external providers, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The availability of these resources can positively impact asthma control and overall well-being.

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 17324 also requires an examination of the local hospital or clinic. The presence of an emergency room equipped to handle asthma exacerbations is critical. Furthermore, the availability of respiratory therapists and specialized asthma clinics can significantly improve the quality of care. The proximity of these resources can be a determining factor in our asthma score.

To conduct a thorough assessment, we would need to gather data from multiple sources. This includes public health data, physician directories, patient reviews, and practice websites. We would also need to interview healthcare professionals and potentially conduct patient surveys.

The final asthma score would be a composite metric, reflecting the availability of PCPs, the quality of care they provide, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the availability of specialized services. This score would provide a valuable snapshot of the healthcare landscape in Gardners, Pennsylvania, and would help residents make informed decisions about their care.

The analysis would also need to consider socioeconomic factors. Poverty, lack of insurance, and limited access to transportation can all negatively impact asthma control. Practices that are sensitive to these factors and offer resources to address them are likely to provide better care.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma score for doctors in ZIP Code 17324 and primary care availability in Gardners is a complex undertaking that requires a comprehensive and data-driven approach. It involves examining a wide range of factors, from physician-to-patient ratios to the integration of mental health resources. The resulting score provides a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

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