17345, Manchester, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17345, Manchester, Pennsylvania is 89 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.64 percent of the residents in 17345 has some form of health insurance. 34.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 77.16 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 17345 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,375 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17345. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,329 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,639 health care providers accessible to residents in 17345, Manchester, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Manchester, PA (ZIP Code 17345)

This analysis focuses on evaluating the accessibility and quality of asthma care within ZIP Code 17345 (Manchester, PA), considering physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, though a formal numerical score is not provided here. Instead, a qualitative evaluation is offered, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This analysis will also consider the availability of primary care services, as these are often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms.

Manchester, PA, a community within York County, presents unique challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The prevalence of asthma, like in any community, necessitates a robust healthcare infrastructure to manage the condition effectively. This assessment will examine the landscape to understand the current state of asthma care in the area.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Primary Care Accessibility:**

A fundamental aspect of asthma care accessibility is the physician-to-patient ratio. This metric reflects the availability of qualified medical professionals to serve the population. In Manchester, the ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists (specialists in lung health, including asthma) to the overall population is crucial. Researching the specific ratio for this ZIP code is essential. Publicly available data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, the U.S. Census Bureau, and professional medical organizations (like the American Medical Association) should be consulted to determine the current physician density. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, particularly for pulmonologists, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnosis and treatment.

The availability of primary care is also a critical factor. PCPs often serve as the first line of defense, managing chronic conditions like asthma. The number of PCPs accepting new patients, their office hours, and their ability to provide same-day or urgent care appointments significantly impact the accessibility of care. Areas with a shortage of PCPs may force residents to travel outside the ZIP code for care, adding to the burden of managing asthma.

**Standout Practices and Their Characteristics:**

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several factors. These include the experience and specialization of the physicians, the availability of on-site diagnostic equipment (like spirometry for lung function testing), and the implementation of evidence-based asthma management guidelines. Practices that prioritize patient education, provide comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively monitor patient progress are likely to be considered high-quality providers.

Researching practices within the 17345 ZIP code requires a thorough investigation. Online reviews, patient testimonials, and information available on practice websites are valuable resources. Assessing the practice's commitment to asthma management involves looking for specific programs, such as asthma education classes, support groups, or collaborations with respiratory therapists. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and continuously strive to enhance their services are often considered leaders in asthma care.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Impact:**

Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, has become increasingly important, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Its adoption in asthma care can significantly improve accessibility, particularly for patients with mobility limitations, those living in rural areas, or those who find it difficult to attend in-person appointments.

The extent of telemedicine adoption in Manchester's practices is a key indicator of its accessibility. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient portals can provide convenient and timely care. Assessing the availability of telemedicine services involves investigating the practice's website, contacting the office directly, and reviewing patient feedback. The use of telemedicine can reduce the need for frequent office visits, allowing patients to manage their asthma more effectively from home.

**Mental Health Resources and Asthma Management:**

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression, while these conditions can, in turn, worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the community is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care.

Assessing the availability of mental health support involves researching the presence of mental health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists) in the area. It is also crucial to evaluate the collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health providers. Practices that integrate mental health screening into their asthma management protocols and offer referrals to mental health specialists demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and mental health clinics, also play a vital role in supporting individuals with asthma.

**Overall Assessment and Areas for Improvement:**

Based on the factors discussed, a comprehensive assessment of asthma care in Manchester, PA (ZIP code 17345) can be made. This assessment will highlight the strengths of the healthcare system, such as the presence of experienced physicians or the adoption of telemedicine. It will also identify areas for improvement, such as physician shortages, limited access to mental health resources, or a lack of comprehensive asthma education programs.

Areas for improvement might include increasing the number of pulmonologists, expanding telemedicine services, and fostering greater collaboration between medical and mental health providers. Promoting asthma awareness within the community and providing resources for self-management are also crucial.

**Call to Action:**

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Manchester, PA (ZIP code 17345), including physician locations, practice characteristics, and the availability of resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping capabilities can provide a visual representation of the data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of asthma care accessibility and facilitating informed decision-making for patients and healthcare providers. Explore the power of visualization and gain a clearer perspective on the healthcare resources available to you.