17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.98 percent of the residents in 17740 has some form of health insurance. 35.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.54 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 17740 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,994 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17740. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,230 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,814 health care providers accessible to residents in 17740, Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Jersey Shore, PA (ZIP Code 17740)**

Analyzing the asthma care landscape within Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17740), necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We need to assess not just the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), but also the quality of care they provide, the resources available to manage asthma, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services. This analysis will attempt to quantify these factors, culminating in an "Asthma Score" that reflects the relative strength of the community's capacity to address asthma-related needs.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on the availability of primary care. A robust PCP network allows for early diagnosis, consistent monitoring, and proactive intervention. In Jersey Shore, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. While precise figures fluctuate, the area's rural nature often presents challenges. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, ideally indicating more doctors per capita, is generally associated with better access to care. A higher ratio, however, may necessitate longer wait times for appointments and potentially limit the time physicians can dedicate to individual patients. This directly impacts the quality of asthma management.

Beyond sheer numbers, the specific practices within Jersey Shore warrant scrutiny. Some practices may distinguish themselves through specialized asthma programs, dedicated respiratory therapists, or comprehensive patient education initiatives. These "standout practices" often demonstrate a proactive approach to asthma management, incorporating best practices and offering enhanced support to patients. These practices are key to a high Asthma Score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool in modern healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption within Jersey Shore is a crucial factor. Telemedicine offers several advantages for asthma patients, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and convenient access to specialists. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve accessibility, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in geographically isolated areas. The level of telemedicine integration is a key component of the Asthma Score.

Asthma is not merely a physical condition; it can profoundly impact mental health. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common among asthma sufferers, often exacerbating symptoms and hindering effective management. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is an essential component of a comprehensive asthma care system. Access to therapists, counselors, and support groups within Jersey Shore is critical. Practices that integrate mental health services, either directly or through referrals, demonstrate a holistic approach to patient care. These services are essential for a good Asthma Score.

Furthermore, the availability of asthma-specific resources, such as patient education materials, self-management plans, and access to asthma educators, is vital. These resources empower patients to take control of their condition, leading to better outcomes. The presence of these resources, and the degree to which they are integrated into the care process, is an important factor in the overall Asthma Score.

The Asthma Score will be constructed using a weighted system. The physician-to-patient ratio will constitute a significant portion, reflecting the fundamental importance of access. The presence of standout practices, with their specialized programs and proactive approaches, will contribute substantially. Telemedicine adoption, reflecting the ability to deliver care remotely, will also receive considerable weight. Mental health resources, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being, will be a crucial component. Finally, the availability of asthma-specific resources will be factored in, reflecting the importance of patient education and empowerment.

To calculate the Asthma Score, each factor will be assessed based on available data. Physician-to-patient ratios will be compared against national averages. The presence of standout practices will be determined through research and community feedback. Telemedicine adoption will be assessed based on practice websites and patient reports. Mental health resource availability will be evaluated through local directories and community outreach. The availability of asthma-specific resources will be determined by the practices’ offerings. Each factor will be assigned a score, and these scores will be weighted and combined to arrive at an overall Asthma Score.

The final Asthma Score will provide a snapshot of the asthma care landscape in Jersey Shore. A higher score will indicate a more robust and accessible system, with ample resources and a proactive approach to patient care. A lower score will highlight areas where improvements are needed, such as increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine capabilities, and bolstering mental health services.

This analysis, however, is limited by the availability of data. Publicly available information may not fully capture the nuances of individual practices or the specific needs of the community. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure the Asthma Score remains accurate and relevant.

The Asthma Score is not intended to be a definitive judgment but rather a starting point for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the asthma care system in Jersey Shore. It can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for better asthma care. It can also be used by patients to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

In conclusion, understanding the asthma care environment in Jersey Shore requires a comprehensive assessment of various factors, from physician availability to mental health resources. The Asthma Score, based on a weighted system, will provide a valuable tool for evaluating and improving asthma care in the community.

To further explore the healthcare landscape of Jersey Shore and gain a visual understanding of physician locations, resource distribution, and other critical data points, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a powerful way to visualize the data discussed in this analysis, providing a deeper understanding of the healthcare environment.