17602, Lancaster, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17602, Lancaster, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 88.59 percent of the residents in 17602 has some form of health insurance. 39.84 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.58 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 17602 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 11,978 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 16 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17602. An estimate of 270 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 7,217 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 19,628 health care providers accessible to residents in 17602, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Lancaster, PA (ZIP Code 17602) & Primary Care

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP code 17602 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and the broader context of primary care availability within the city. The goal is to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, considering factors crucial to effective asthma management, including physician access, practice quality, and the integration of modern healthcare solutions.

The foundation of good asthma care lies in accessible and qualified primary care physicians. ZIP code 17602, encompassing a portion of Lancaster City, likely experiences varying levels of primary care access. A critical metric is the physician-to-patient ratio. Unfortunately, precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratio data specific to 17602 is difficult to obtain publicly. However, the overall Lancaster County physician-to-population ratio provides a baseline. This ratio, when compared to state and national averages, offers insight into potential access challenges. A lower ratio (fewer physicians per capita) might indicate longer wait times for appointments and potentially strained resources, impacting asthma patients' ability to receive timely care and follow-up.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of primary care practices significantly impacts asthma management. Evaluating practices requires considering factors such as physician expertise in asthma, adherence to national asthma guidelines, and the availability of comprehensive services. Standout practices in the area might be those that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, proactive asthma action plans, and regular monitoring of lung function. These practices often employ certified asthma educators, providing patients with the tools and knowledge to manage their condition effectively. They also typically integrate spirometry testing as a standard part of asthma management.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma, particularly in areas where access to in-person care is limited. The adoption of telemedicine in Lancaster, and specifically within practices serving ZIP code 17602, is a key indicator of the "Asthma Score." Practices embracing telemedicine offer virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of symptoms. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with frequent exacerbations or those who face transportation challenges. The availability of telemedicine can improve adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for emergency room visits.

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of asthma management, yet it is critically important. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Primary care practices that recognize this connection and provide access to mental health resources, either through in-house services or referrals to mental health professionals, are better equipped to provide comprehensive asthma care. This includes screening for mental health issues, providing counseling, and coordinating care with mental health specialists. The integration of mental health services is a significant factor in a practice's overall "Asthma Score."

The "Asthma Score" also considers the availability of specialized asthma care. While primary care physicians are the cornerstone of asthma management, access to pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases) is essential for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. The presence of pulmonologists in Lancaster County, and the ease with which patients in 17602 can access their services, influences the overall "Asthma Score."

Furthermore, the availability of urgent care facilities and emergency rooms within close proximity to 17602 is crucial. Asthma exacerbations can be life-threatening, and timely access to care is paramount. The presence of well-equipped urgent care centers and emergency rooms that can effectively manage asthma emergencies contributes to a higher "Asthma Score."

The "Asthma Score" is also influenced by the availability of community resources. Support groups, educational programs, and access to affordable medications are all vital components of effective asthma management. Practices that partner with community organizations to provide these resources demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for asthma care in ZIP code 17602 and the broader primary care landscape in Lancaster requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, practice quality, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, access to specialists, emergency care availability, and community support. This detailed analysis provides a framework for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current system and identifying areas for improvement.