17344, Mc Sherrystown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17344, Mc Sherrystown, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.97 percent of the residents in 17344 has some form of health insurance. 29.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.23 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 17344 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 937 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17344. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 732 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,868 health care providers accessible to residents in 17344, Mc Sherrystown, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: McSherrystown, PA (ZIP Code 17344)

Analyzing asthma care within McSherrystown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17344) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the specific resources available for asthma management, and the overall quality of care provided within the community. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess the adoption of telemedicine, and consider the integration of mental health resources, all factors contributing to an "Asthma Score" for the area. This score, though not a numerical value, will represent a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care in McSherrystown.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible primary care. The physician-to-patient ratio in McSherrystown and the surrounding Adams County area is a crucial indicator. A lower ratio, meaning more physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments, preventative care, and ongoing management. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau can be used to estimate these ratios. A scarcity of primary care physicians, particularly those accepting new patients, would negatively impact the Asthma Score. This scarcity can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment plans, and increased reliance on emergency room visits, all detrimental to asthma patients.

The presence of specialized pulmonologists and allergists is another vital component. While primary care physicians often handle initial asthma management, specialists are critical for complex cases, severe asthma, and the identification of specific triggers. The proximity of these specialists, and their acceptance of insurance plans common in the area, significantly impacts the Asthma Score. Patients needing to travel long distances for specialized care face additional burdens, including time, transportation costs, and potential disruptions to their treatment schedules.

Several primary care practices in McSherrystown and the surrounding areas likely play a significant role in asthma care. Identifying “standout practices” involves evaluating several factors. Do these practices offer comprehensive asthma education programs for patients and their families? Are they proactive in developing personalized asthma action plans? Do they regularly monitor patients' lung function and adjust treatment accordingly? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to these best practices, and that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, will contribute positively to the overall Asthma Score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in asthma management, particularly for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring capabilities, demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care. This is especially important for patients with mobility issues, those living in rural areas, or those who may face challenges in attending in-person appointments. The Asthma Score benefits from the availability and utilization of telemedicine options.

Asthma is often intertwined with mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact quality of life. The integration of mental health resources into asthma care is therefore crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or that have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, contribute to a higher Asthma Score. This integrated approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care addressing both their physical and emotional well-being.

The availability of local pharmacies and their expertise in asthma medications and devices is also important. Pharmacies that offer medication counseling, device training (e.g., inhaler technique), and convenient refill options can positively impact patient adherence to treatment plans. The Asthma Score considers the accessibility of these resources and the pharmacists' role in supporting asthma patients.

Beyond individual practices, the broader community resources also influence the Asthma Score. The presence of support groups for asthma patients and their families, educational programs offered by local hospitals or health organizations, and community awareness campaigns contribute to a more supportive environment for asthma management. These initiatives empower patients, promote self-management skills, and reduce the stigma associated with asthma.

The overall Asthma Score for McSherrystown, PA (ZIP code 17344) is a composite of these factors. The availability of primary care physicians, the presence of specialists, the quality of care provided by local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the support provided by the community all contribute to the final assessment. A high Asthma Score indicates a well-resourced community with accessible, high-quality asthma care, while a low score highlights areas where improvements are needed.

To gain a more visual and data-driven understanding of asthma care in McSherrystown and surrounding areas, we recommend exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome. CartoChrome maps can help visualize physician locations, healthcare resource availability, and demographic data, providing a comprehensive overview of the healthcare landscape.