17408, York, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17408, York, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.97 percent of the residents in 17408 has some form of health insurance. 32.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.03 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 17408 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,875 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17408. An estimate of 53 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 4,623 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,903 health care providers accessible to residents in 17408, York, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: York, PA (ZIP Code 17408)

The city of York, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 17408 ZIP code, presents a complex landscape for asthma management. Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources is crucial to understanding the effectiveness of asthma care delivery. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" perspective, evaluating the resources available to patients and identifying areas for improvement. This isn't a numerical score, but a qualitative assessment of the factors influencing asthma care.

Primary care availability in York is a critical foundation. The physician-to-patient ratio is a key metric. While precise figures fluctuate, York County, including the 17408 ZIP code, often faces challenges in this area. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to preventative care and timely interventions for asthma exacerbations. This scarcity can be particularly problematic for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma, who require regular check-ups and ongoing management.

Within the 17408 ZIP code, the concentration of primary care practices varies. Some practices stand out due to their comprehensive asthma management programs. These often include patient education initiatives, such as workshops on inhaler technique and trigger avoidance. They may also incorporate spirometry testing as part of routine check-ups, enabling early detection of declining lung function. These practices, when they exist, frequently collaborate with pulmonologists and allergists, facilitating referrals for specialized care when needed.

Telemedicine adoption is another significant factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth services across the healthcare spectrum, and this includes asthma management. Telemedicine offers advantages for asthma patients, such as remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations for medication adjustments, and educational sessions. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can provide more accessible care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited transportation options. However, the effectiveness of telemedicine hinges on reliable internet access and patient comfort with technology.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as integral to asthma management. Asthma can be a significant source of stress and anxiety, potentially exacerbating symptoms and impacting quality of life. The presence of mental health services, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals, is a crucial element. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups. Practices that integrate mental health screening and provide support for patients struggling with anxiety or depression related to their asthma are likely to see better patient outcomes.

The specific practices within the 17408 ZIP code that excel in asthma management demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive care. These practices often have dedicated asthma educators, who provide personalized instruction and support. They may also participate in quality improvement initiatives, tracking patient outcomes and implementing evidence-based strategies to improve asthma control. These practices serve as models for others, demonstrating best practices in asthma care delivery.

Conversely, some practices may face challenges. Limited resources, high patient volumes, or a lack of specialized training in asthma management can hinder their ability to provide optimal care. These practices may benefit from additional training for their staff, access to updated guidelines, and increased collaboration with specialists. Addressing these gaps is essential to ensure that all patients in the 17408 ZIP code receive the level of care they need.

The availability of specialized care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also important. While primary care physicians are often the first point of contact for asthma patients, access to specialists is crucial for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The proximity of these specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the ability to coordinate care between primary care and specialists significantly impact patient outcomes.

The overall "Asthma Score" for the 17408 ZIP code is influenced by a combination of these factors. While York has its share of dedicated healthcare providers, the area may face challenges related to physician-to-patient ratios and access to specialized care. The adoption of telemedicine and the integration of mental health resources are areas where further progress can be made. Practices that prioritize patient education, utilize evidence-based guidelines, and collaborate effectively with specialists are likely to achieve the best outcomes.

To further explore the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, including primary care practices, specialists, and mental health providers, within York and the 17408 ZIP code, consider using CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide a visual representation of healthcare access, allowing you to identify areas with high concentrations of resources and areas where access may be limited.