17355, Railroad, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17355, Railroad, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.45 percent of the residents in 17355 has some form of health insurance. 36.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.84 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 17355 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 78 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17355. An estimate of 43 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 62 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 14,421 health care providers accessible to residents in 17355, Railroad, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Railroad, PA (ZIP Code 17355)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in Railroad, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17355) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider the availability and quality of primary care physicians, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, the integration of mental health resources, and the overall physician-to-patient ratio. This analysis will provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, offering insights into the accessibility and effectiveness of asthma care within this specific geographic area.

The foundation of asthma care rests on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Railroad, the PCP landscape directly impacts asthma management. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating a higher concentration of physicians per capita, generally translates to easier access to appointments, shorter wait times, and more personalized care. Conversely, a high ratio can strain resources, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses, less frequent follow-ups, and a diminished ability to manage chronic conditions effectively. Precise data on the physician-to-patient ratio within 17355 is essential for a comprehensive Asthma Score assessment. This requires analyzing the number of PCPs actively practicing within the zip code and comparing it to the population size, factoring in the prevalence of asthma within the community.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. Are PCPs well-versed in the latest asthma management guidelines? Do they offer comprehensive asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs? Do they routinely assess asthma control using standardized questionnaires and spirometry? The Asthma Score must reflect the proficiency of local PCPs in providing evidence-based asthma care. This includes evaluating their adherence to national guidelines, their use of appropriate diagnostic tools, and their ability to effectively educate patients on self-management techniques.

The adoption of telemedicine presents a significant opportunity to enhance asthma care in Railroad. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, facilitating virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations, transportation challenges, or those living in rural areas. The Asthma Score should reflect the availability and utilization of telemedicine services by local PCPs. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially improve patient access, reduce the burden on healthcare facilities, and enhance the overall quality of asthma management.

Mental health considerations are integral to asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological challenges. The Asthma Score must assess the integration of mental health resources within the primary care setting. Do PCPs screen for mental health issues? Do they have established referral pathways to mental health professionals? The presence of integrated mental health support can improve patient outcomes, enhance medication adherence, and promote overall well-being.

Identifying standout practices within 17355 is crucial. These practices may demonstrate exemplary asthma management practices, innovative use of technology, or exceptional patient satisfaction. Examining patient reviews, assessing practice accreditation, and evaluating adherence to best practices can help identify these leading providers. Highlighting these standout practices can provide valuable insights for other providers and empower patients to make informed decisions about their care. This could include practices that have a dedicated asthma educator, offer evening or weekend appointments, or actively participate in community outreach programs.

The Asthma Score also considers factors such as access to specialized care. While PCPs are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to pulmonologists and allergists is essential for complex cases or those requiring specialized interventions. The proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the availability of specialized diagnostic tools (e.g., allergy testing) are all relevant factors. The Asthma Score should reflect the ease with which patients can access specialized care when needed.

Furthermore, the availability of asthma education and support programs within the community contributes to the Asthma Score. These programs can empower patients with the knowledge and skills they need to effectively manage their condition. They may include asthma self-management classes, support groups, or educational materials. The presence of these resources demonstrates a commitment to patient education and self-management, which is a critical component of effective asthma care.

Finally, the Asthma Score should be dynamic, reflecting changes in the healthcare landscape. Regular updates are necessary to account for new practices, technological advancements, and evolving patient needs. This ensures that the Asthma Score remains a relevant and reliable tool for assessing the quality and accessibility of asthma care in Railroad.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma care landscape in Railroad, Pennsylvania, requires a comprehensive evaluation of physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and access to specialized resources. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, ultimately aiming to improve the lives of individuals living with asthma.

To visualize and explore the healthcare landscape in Railroad, including physician locations, practice details, and access to resources, we invite you to explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome. These maps offer a dynamic and user-friendly way to analyze the data and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.