17847, Milton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17847, Milton, Pennsylvania is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.87 percent of the residents in 17847 has some form of health insurance. 34.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 68.72 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 17847 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,409 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 35 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17847. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,221 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,355 health care providers accessible to residents in 17847, Milton, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Milton, PA (ZIP Code 17847)

Milton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Susquehanna Valley, presents a unique landscape for healthcare delivery, particularly regarding asthma management. This analysis delves into the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) in ZIP code 17847, assessing their capacity to address asthma concerns, and evaluating the broader healthcare ecosystem's support for patients. The goal is to provide an 'Asthma Score' assessment, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources, ultimately informing the community and potential healthcare providers.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible and knowledgeable primary care. Assessing physician-to-patient ratios is crucial. While precise figures fluctuate, a general estimate of PCPs within the 17847 ZIP code, coupled with the area's population, reveals a potential challenge. A lower physician-to-patient ratio suggests a greater strain on existing resources, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time for thorough patient consultations. This impacts the ability of patients to receive prompt diagnoses, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring, all critical for controlling asthma symptoms.

Beyond sheer numbers, the specialization and expertise of available physicians are paramount. Does the area boast a sufficient number of PCPs with specialized training or a particular interest in pulmonology or allergy/immunology? This is especially important for asthma patients, as these specialists often possess a deeper understanding of the condition, enabling them to provide more tailored and effective care. The presence of such specialists directly impacts the 'Asthma Score' by improving the likelihood of patients receiving optimal treatment strategies, including the use of advanced diagnostic tools and the latest pharmacological interventions.

The adoption of telemedicine represents another critical factor. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring, can significantly improve asthma management, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. It allows for more frequent check-ins, medication adjustments, and educational opportunities. Practices that embrace telemedicine, offering virtual appointments for follow-up visits, medication refills, and symptom assessments, are likely to score higher on the 'Asthma Score' because they are demonstrating a commitment to patient convenience and proactive care.

Furthermore, the integration of mental health resources is essential. Asthma, like many chronic conditions, can significantly impact mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and hinder adherence to treatment plans. Therefore, the availability of mental health services, either within the primary care setting or through readily accessible referrals, is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that prioritize mental health integration, offering on-site counseling or strong partnerships with mental health providers, will contribute positively to the 'Asthma Score'.

Evaluating standout practices within Milton requires a deeper dive into specific healthcare providers. Identifying practices that excel in asthma management involves examining their patient reviews, assessing their commitment to evidence-based practices, and understanding their approaches to patient education. Do they offer comprehensive asthma action plans? Do they actively engage patients in self-management strategies? Do they participate in quality improvement initiatives related to asthma care? These are all indicators of a practice's dedication to providing high-quality care.

The 'Asthma Score' for Milton, PA (17847) is ultimately a composite measure. It reflects the interplay of various factors, including the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to meet the needs of asthma patients, while a lower score suggests areas for improvement. The challenge lies in balancing the availability of resources with the quality of care provided.

The specific practices within the ZIP code need to be evaluated for the quality of care they provide. Are they using the latest guidelines for asthma management? Are they providing patient education materials and training? Do they have a system for monitoring patients' asthma control and adjusting treatment plans accordingly? These are all important factors to consider when assessing the quality of asthma care in a particular practice.

The broader healthcare ecosystem also plays a role. The availability of pharmacies that stock asthma medications, the presence of support groups for asthma patients, and the accessibility of emergency care services all contribute to the overall quality of asthma care in the community. A robust healthcare ecosystem can provide a safety net for patients, ensuring that they have access to the resources they need to manage their condition effectively.

In conclusion, assessing the 'Asthma Score' for Milton, PA (17847) requires a multifaceted approach. It involves evaluating physician availability, specialization, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, and the quality of care provided by individual practices. The goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare environment, identifying strengths and weaknesses and ultimately informing strategies to improve asthma management for the community. The ongoing monitoring of these factors is crucial to ensuring that asthma patients in Milton receive the best possible care.

For a more detailed and visually informative understanding of the healthcare landscape in Milton, including the location of healthcare providers, physician-to-patient ratios, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a valuable visual representation of the data discussed, empowering you with a deeper understanding of healthcare access and resources in your community.