17555, Narvon, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17555, Narvon, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 57.31 percent of the residents in 17555 has some form of health insurance. 19.10 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 46.33 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 17555 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,244 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17555. An estimate of 106 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 853 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 12,270 health care providers accessible to residents in 17555, Narvon, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Narvon, PA (ZIP Code 17555)

The evaluation of asthma care accessibility and quality in Narvon, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17555) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis considers various factors, from physician availability to the integration of modern technologies, to provide an "Asthma Score" perspective. We will examine primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption rates, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in determining the overall quality of asthma care available to residents. This analysis aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

Primary care availability forms the foundation of effective asthma management. In Narvon, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) directly impacts the ability of individuals to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing monitoring, and appropriate treatment plans. A shortage of PCPs can lead to delayed care, increased emergency room visits, and a decline in overall asthma control. The proximity of PCPs to residential areas, along with their capacity to accept new patients, are crucial considerations. Assessing the appointment wait times and the ease of scheduling are also vital components of this evaluation.

Physician-to-patient ratios offer a quantitative measure of healthcare accessibility. A high ratio (fewer physicians per capita) can indicate a strained healthcare system, potentially leading to longer wait times, reduced appointment durations, and limited opportunities for patient education. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a more readily available healthcare workforce, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes. Data on physician-to-patient ratios, specifically for primary care physicians and pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases), is essential for understanding the capacity of the local healthcare system to meet the needs of asthma sufferers.

Identifying standout practices within the ZIP code is key. These practices often demonstrate excellence in asthma management through various means. This might include employing certified asthma educators, offering comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively participating in quality improvement initiatives. These practices might also demonstrate a commitment to patient education, providing resources and support to help individuals better manage their condition. Reviews from patients and peer recognition are also important indicators of excellence.

The adoption of telemedicine has become increasingly significant, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine, including video consultations and remote monitoring, can improve access to care, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those living in geographically isolated areas. The availability of telemedicine services for asthma management, including medication management and follow-up appointments, can significantly improve patient outcomes. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can potentially offer more convenient and accessible care options.

Mental health resources are often overlooked but are crucial to comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a person's emotional well-being, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Practices that integrate mental health services, such as offering on-site counseling or providing referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. This integration is vital for addressing the psychological impact of asthma and improving patient adherence to treatment plans.

Analyzing the specific practices within Narvon, it is important to assess their adherence to national guidelines for asthma management. This includes the use of evidence-based treatments, the development of personalized asthma action plans, and the regular assessment of asthma control. Practices that actively incorporate these guidelines are more likely to provide high-quality care. Evaluating the availability of asthma-specific resources, such as peak flow meters and inhaler technique training, is also important.

The geographic distribution of healthcare providers within the ZIP code also plays a significant role. The concentration of providers in certain areas can create disparities in access to care for residents living in more remote locations. Analyzing the geographic accessibility of healthcare services, including the availability of transportation options, is essential for ensuring equitable access to asthma care for all residents.

Evaluating the insurance coverage accepted by local practices is also critical. The ability of patients to afford necessary medications and treatments is directly related to their insurance coverage. Practices that accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, are more likely to be accessible to a broader population. Assessing the availability of financial assistance programs for those who are uninsured or underinsured is also important.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Narvon (ZIP Code 17555) is a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a healthcare system with readily available primary care physicians, favorable physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices committed to evidence-based care, widespread telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest limitations in access to care, potentially leading to poorer asthma control and increased healthcare costs.

The final "Asthma Score" is determined by the interplay of all the factors mentioned above. Each element has its own weight in the overall assessment. The availability of PCPs is weighted heavily, as it is the foundation of asthma management. The presence of standout practices and the adoption of telemedicine are also given significant weight. The integration of mental health resources is considered crucial for holistic patient care. The physician-to-patient ratio and the acceptance of insurance are also considered.

In conclusion, a thorough assessment of the healthcare landscape in Narvon, Pennsylvania, reveals a complex picture. The "Asthma Score" is not simply a numerical value, but a reflection of the ability of the local healthcare system to provide accessible, high-quality, and comprehensive asthma care. It is an ongoing process of assessment and improvement.

**For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Narvon, including the location of healthcare providers and their accessibility, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps offered by CartoChrome. They provide valuable insights that complement this analysis.**