17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 60.13 percent of the residents in 17747 has some form of health insurance. 26.66 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 42.95 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 17747 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,335 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17747. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 400 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 720 health care providers accessible to residents in 17747, Loganton, Pennsylvania.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 17747 and Primary Care Availability in Loganton**

Analyzing healthcare access, particularly for a chronic condition like asthma, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP code 17747 (Loganton, Pennsylvania) and assesses the availability of primary care physicians, key for asthma management, and other related factors. We’ll use an "Asthma Score" framework, evaluating various elements to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape. This score isn't a single number but rather a composite of several considerations.

**Physician-to-Patient Ratio and Accessibility**

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator. A lower ratio (more physicians per capita) generally suggests better access. In Loganton, a predominantly rural area, this ratio is likely to be a significant challenge. The limited population base and the geographical dispersion of residents often translate to fewer physicians per resident compared to more urbanized areas. This scarcity can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and increased travel distances for patients. The Asthma Score is immediately impacted negatively by these factors.

Accessibility also encompasses the availability of transportation. Residents in Loganton may face difficulties reaching medical facilities due to limited public transportation options and the need for personal vehicles. This is particularly relevant for asthma patients who may experience sudden exacerbations requiring immediate medical attention. The lack of reliable transportation can delay or prevent timely access to care, significantly impacting the Asthma Score.

**Standout Practices and Their Impact**

Identifying standout practices within ZIP code 17747 or its immediate vicinity is crucial. These practices could be recognized for their commitment to asthma management, their patient-centered approach, or their integration of innovative technologies. A practice that actively monitors asthma control, provides patient education, and offers readily available appointments would receive a higher Asthma Score rating.

Furthermore, practices that participate in asthma-focused quality improvement initiatives or collaborate with specialists (e.g., pulmonologists, allergists) would be viewed favorably. The existence of such practices can mitigate the negative effects of a low physician-to-patient ratio by providing high-quality, accessible care to a greater number of patients. Their presence would bolster the overall Asthma Score for the region.

**Telemedicine Adoption and Its Influence**

Telemedicine offers a powerful tool to address the challenges of rural healthcare access. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Loganton can significantly improve the Asthma Score. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, especially during exacerbations or for routine follow-up appointments.

The availability of virtual asthma management programs, where patients can monitor their symptoms, receive personalized feedback, and connect with healthcare providers through digital platforms, is particularly beneficial. Practices that embrace telemedicine can expand their reach, improve patient adherence to treatment plans, and provide timely interventions, thereby enhancing the Asthma Score.

**Mental Health Resources and Asthma Management**

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of the condition can contribute to mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is therefore an essential component of asthma care.

Practices that integrate mental health services into their asthma management programs, either through in-house providers or through referrals to external specialists, would receive a higher Asthma Score. This integrated approach recognizes the holistic needs of patients and can lead to improved asthma control and overall well-being. The ability to address both physical and mental health concerns is a key factor in determining the quality of asthma care.

**Specific Examples and Considerations**

Let's consider specific scenarios. If a primary care practice in Loganton has a dedicated asthma educator, offers evening and weekend appointments, and utilizes a patient portal for communication, it would receive a favorable Asthma Score. Conversely, a practice with long wait times, limited appointment availability, and no mental health integration would receive a lower score.

Another crucial consideration is the availability of after-hours care. Asthma exacerbations can occur at any time, and the ability to access medical advice or treatment outside of regular business hours is critical. Practices that offer on-call services, collaborate with urgent care facilities, or provide access to virtual consultations during off-hours would contribute positively to the Asthma Score.

**Challenges and Limitations**

It's important to acknowledge the limitations of this analysis. Data availability can be a challenge, particularly in rural areas. Information on physician-to-patient ratios, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resource availability may be limited or outdated. Furthermore, the Asthma Score is subjective and based on available information.

The specific needs of individual patients can vary. Some patients may require specialized care that is not readily available in Loganton. The Asthma Score provides a general overview, but it does not replace the need for personalized healthcare decisions.

**Concluding Thoughts**

The Asthma Score for Loganton, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17747) is likely to be affected by the rural nature of the area. The physician-to-patient ratio, transportation challenges, and the availability of specialized care are potential areas of concern. However, the adoption of telemedicine, the presence of standout practices, and the integration of mental health resources can significantly improve the Asthma Score and the overall quality of asthma care.

**Call to Action**

For a comprehensive visual representation of healthcare access, physician locations, and related data in Loganton and surrounding areas, explore the power of CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into the healthcare landscape, helping patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions. Visit CartoChrome today to visualize the data and discover how to improve healthcare access in your community.