17742, Lairdsville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17742, Lairdsville, Pennsylvania is 92 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17742 has some form of health insurance. 79.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.31 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 17742 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 14 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17742. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 15 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,372 health care providers accessible to residents in 17742, Lairdsville, Pennsylvania.

Analyzing asthma care within a specific geographic area necessitates a multifaceted approach, considering not only the presence of physicians but also the accessibility of care, the integration of modern technologies, and the availability of supportive resources. This analysis focuses on the provision of asthma care within ZIP Code 17742, encompassing Lairdsville, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas, aiming to provide an ‘Asthma Score’ analysis. This score is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment based on various factors.

The foundation of effective asthma care lies in the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). Lairdsville, being a rural community, likely faces challenges in this regard. Physician-to-patient ratios are crucial. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors for a larger population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests better access. Data on the exact physician-to-patient ratio within 17742 is vital. Public health resources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can provide insights into these ratios.

Beyond the raw number of physicians, the type and quality of care offered are paramount. Are there practices that specialize in pulmonology or allergy and immunology, key specialties for asthma management? Standout practices might be those that demonstrate a commitment to patient education, offering resources on asthma triggers, proper inhaler technique, and asthma action plans. Practices that actively participate in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives also deserve recognition. Reviews from patients, accessible through online platforms, can offer valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the overall effectiveness of care.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly important, especially in rural areas where geographical barriers can hinder access to care. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient portals can significantly improve accessibility. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The availability of telehealth services can directly impact the ‘Asthma Score,’ especially in a community like Lairdsville, where travel distances might be a factor.

Asthma is often associated with mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. The presence of mental health resources, either within primary care practices or through readily accessible referrals, is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that screen patients for mental health issues and have established referral pathways to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient well-being. This integration of mental health services is a significant factor in the overall ‘Asthma Score.’

Further evaluation of practices should include their adherence to national asthma guidelines, such as those provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). Practices that consistently follow these guidelines, using standardized protocols for diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring, are more likely to deliver effective and evidence-based care. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) can facilitate adherence to guidelines, improve communication between providers, and enable data-driven quality improvement initiatives.

The availability of asthma medications and devices is another crucial factor. Are local pharmacies well-stocked with a variety of inhalers, nebulizers, and other necessary medications? Do practices offer assistance with medication affordability, such as information on patient assistance programs or generic alternatives? The ease with which patients can access and afford their medications directly impacts their ability to manage their asthma effectively.

Community outreach and education initiatives also contribute to the ‘Asthma Score.’ Practices that actively participate in community health fairs, offer asthma education classes, or partner with local schools to educate children and families about asthma management demonstrate a commitment to preventative care and community well-being. These initiatives can help to reduce asthma exacerbations and improve overall quality of life for individuals with asthma.

In conclusion, assessing the quality of asthma care in Lairdsville (ZIP Code 17742) requires a detailed examination of physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, mental health resources, adherence to guidelines, medication access, and community outreach. While a definitive ‘Asthma Score’ requires a data-driven analysis, the factors discussed provide a framework for evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the current healthcare landscape.

For a comprehensive, visually driven understanding of healthcare resources and access within Lairdsville and surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant services, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and interactive visualization of the healthcare landscape, allowing for a deeper understanding of the factors influencing asthma care in the region. Explore the potential of CartoChrome maps to visualize and analyze this crucial information.