17554, Mountville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17554, Mountville, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.51 percent of the residents in 17554 has some form of health insurance. 37.79 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.91 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 17554 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,906 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 24 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17554. An estimate of 296 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,211 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 25,082 health care providers accessible to residents in 17554, Mountville, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Mountville, PA (ZIP Code 17554)

Mountville, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP Code 17554, presents a unique landscape for asthma care. Evaluating the quality and accessibility of asthma management requires a multifaceted approach, examining physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and the availability of supportive mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an 'Asthma Score' assessment, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare ecosystem for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Mountville, primary care availability is a critical factor. The physician-to-patient ratio, a key metric, needs to be carefully considered. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to routine check-ups, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments. Determining the precise ratio for 17554 necessitates accessing publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the US Census Bureau. This data, combined with information from insurance providers and healthcare directories, allows for a more accurate assessment of PCP density.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of PCPs is also crucial. Are physicians concentrated in specific areas of Mountville, potentially creating access disparities for residents in more geographically isolated locations? Do practices accept a wide range of insurance plans, ensuring that care is accessible to the diverse population of the area? These factors contribute to the overall 'Asthma Score'.

Standout practices within Mountville deserve specific recognition. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care. Characteristics of such practices could include: dedicated asthma educators, offering patient education on proper inhaler technique, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans; readily available same-day or next-day appointments for acute exacerbations; and strong relationships with pulmonologists and allergists for specialized consultations. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP), are also strong contenders for high scores. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based care and continuous improvement.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly relevant, particularly in the context of chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers the potential to improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in areas with limited physician availability. Practices in Mountville that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function (e.g., peak flow meters), and secure messaging platforms for communication with patients are likely to receive higher 'Asthma Score' ratings. Telemedicine can also facilitate more frequent check-ins, allowing for proactive management of asthma symptoms and early intervention to prevent exacerbations.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma, and these conditions can significantly impact asthma control. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of a comprehensive asthma care model. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or through referrals to local mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. Furthermore, practices that screen for anxiety and depression during routine asthma check-ups demonstrate a commitment to proactive mental health care.

The 'Asthma Score' also considers the broader community resources available to asthma patients. This includes access to support groups, educational programs offered by local hospitals or community organizations, and readily available information on environmental triggers, such as air quality alerts. The presence of these resources can empower patients to take an active role in managing their condition and improve their overall quality of life.

In assessing the 'Asthma Score' for Mountville, it's crucial to consider the specific needs of the population. The prevalence of asthma, the demographics of the community (e.g., age, socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity), and the presence of environmental risk factors (e.g., air pollution, allergens) all influence the local asthma burden. Practices that tailor their services to meet the unique needs of their patient population are likely to achieve higher scores.

The 'Asthma Score' is not just a static rating; it is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated. The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and best practices emerging. Regular evaluations, incorporating feedback from patients and healthcare providers, are essential to ensure that the 'Asthma Score' accurately reflects the quality and accessibility of asthma care in Mountville.

The assessment also needs to consider the role of local hospitals and specialists. The presence of a pulmonologist or allergist within a reasonable distance is critical for patients with complex asthma cases. Strong relationships between primary care physicians and specialists facilitate seamless care coordination, leading to improved patient outcomes. Hospitals with dedicated asthma programs or specialized respiratory therapy services also contribute positively to the 'Asthma Score'.

Finally, the ‘Asthma Score’ should take into account patient satisfaction. Patient feedback, gathered through surveys or online reviews, provides valuable insights into the patient experience. Practices that prioritize patient communication, provide clear and concise information, and address patient concerns effectively are likely to receive positive feedback and contribute to a higher 'Asthma Score'.

To visualize the healthcare landscape of Mountville and gain a deeper understanding of physician distribution, practice locations, and access to resources, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These maps offer a dynamic and interactive way to analyze healthcare data, allowing you to identify areas with high or low access to care, pinpoint potential gaps in services, and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.