17350, New Oxford, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17350, New Oxford, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.99 percent of the residents in 17350 has some form of health insurance. 36.54 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.94 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 17350 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,971 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17350. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,735 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,532 health care providers accessible to residents in 17350, New Oxford, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: New Oxford, PA (ZIP Code 17350)

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly for a condition like asthma, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability and capabilities of primary care physicians (PCPs) within the New Oxford, PA (ZIP Code 17350) area, with specific attention to asthma management. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all critical for effective asthma care.

The foundation of any asthma management strategy rests on accessible and competent primary care. In New Oxford, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial starting point. While precise figures fluctuate and require ongoing monitoring, the ratio will directly impact appointment availability and the time physicians can dedicate to individual patient needs. A higher ratio, meaning fewer physicians per capita, could translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial interventions for asthma exacerbations. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access, allowing for more proactive and preventative care. This ratio is not a static number and depends on the local population and the number of actively practicing PCPs in the area.

Beyond simple numbers, the specialization and experience of local PCPs are vital. Asthma management is not a one-size-fits-all approach. A PCP with a strong understanding of asthma triggers, medication management, and patient education is essential. Identifying practices that actively participate in asthma-specific continuing medical education (CME) or that have a demonstrable track record of successful asthma control within their patient population would be a significant indicator of quality. Furthermore, the presence of specialists like pulmonologists or allergists within the broader network of care influences the overall asthma score. Easy referral pathways and collaborative care models between PCPs and specialists are vital for complex cases.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, especially for routine follow-ups or medication adjustments, can significantly improve asthma management. Telemedicine reduces the need for in-person visits, which can be challenging for patients with breathing difficulties or those living in rural areas. Examining which practices in the 17350 ZIP code offer telemedicine options, including the types of services offered (e.g., medication refills, symptom monitoring, education), contributes to the overall score. Practices that have integrated telehealth into their standard of care are likely to provide more accessible and convenient care.

Mental health integration is increasingly recognized as a critical component of asthma management. Asthma can be significantly impacted by stress, anxiety, and depression. Patients experiencing these conditions may struggle to adhere to treatment plans or experience more frequent exacerbations. The availability of mental health resources, either within the primary care practice or through readily accessible referral networks, is therefore a significant factor. Practices that screen for mental health issues, offer on-site counseling, or have established partnerships with mental health professionals improve their asthma score. This holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.

Assessing the "Asthma Score" requires a nuanced evaluation. It's not just about the presence of doctors; it's about the quality of care they provide. This includes their expertise, the accessibility of their services, and their ability to address the multifaceted needs of asthma patients. For example, practices that actively utilize electronic health records (EHRs) for asthma management, including tracking patient symptoms, medication adherence, and environmental triggers, would score higher. EHRs facilitate data-driven decision-making and improve patient outcomes.

The "Asthma Score" also considers the availability of patient education resources. Asthma education is critical for empowering patients to manage their condition effectively. Practices that provide educational materials, offer asthma self-management training, or partner with patient advocacy groups enhance their score. Patient education empowers individuals to understand their condition, recognize triggers, and take proactive steps to prevent exacerbations.

Another important consideration is the availability of after-hours care. Asthma attacks can occur at any time. Practices that offer after-hours phone support, access to on-call physicians, or partnerships with urgent care facilities contribute to a higher score. This ensures that patients have access to care when they need it, preventing potentially life-threatening emergencies.

Finally, consider the integration of community resources. Practices that collaborate with local pharmacies, schools, and community organizations to promote asthma awareness and provide support services enhance their score. This collaborative approach creates a comprehensive network of care that benefits the entire community.

In summary, assessing the “Asthma Score” in New Oxford (17350) is a complex undertaking. It requires evaluating the physician-to-patient ratio, the expertise of local PCPs, the adoption of telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, the use of EHRs, the availability of patient education, the provision of after-hours care, and the integration of community resources. A higher score indicates better access to quality asthma care, while a lower score highlights areas where improvements are needed. Regularly updating this assessment is crucial to reflect the evolving healthcare landscape and ensure that patients in New Oxford receive the best possible care.

For a visual representation of this data and to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in New Oxford, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome can help you visualize physician locations, identify areas with limited access to care, and explore other relevant demographic and healthcare data.