17851, Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17851, Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.23 percent of the residents in 17851 has some form of health insurance. 53.49 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.49 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 17851 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,241 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 39 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17851. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,696 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,349 health care providers accessible to residents in 17851, Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Mount Carmel, PA (ZIP Code 17851)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality for asthma management in Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17851), requires a multifaceted approach. We need to assess the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of the specific challenges faced by this community. This analysis will provide an ‘Asthma Score’ assessment, considering various factors to paint a comprehensive picture of the healthcare landscape.

The foundation of good asthma care rests on accessible primary care. In Mount Carmel, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, the area historically has faced challenges in retaining and attracting physicians, particularly primary care providers. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial asthma management. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a greater concentration of doctors, would translate to a higher ‘Asthma Score.’ Conversely, a scarcity of primary care physicians would negatively impact the score.

Beyond mere numbers, the quality of primary care significantly influences asthma outcomes. Practices that proactively manage asthma through evidence-based guidelines, regular patient education, and consistent follow-up care would receive higher marks. This includes practices that employ certified asthma educators, utilize peak flow meters effectively, and provide comprehensive asthma action plans tailored to individual patient needs. The presence of such practices, demonstrating a commitment to proactive and patient-centered asthma management, would significantly boost the ‘Asthma Score.’

Telemedicine offers a promising avenue to improve access to care, particularly in geographically underserved areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Mount Carmel is a crucial factor in this analysis. Practices utilizing telehealth for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms would be considered favorably. This technology can bridge geographical barriers, enabling patients to receive timely care and potentially reducing the need for emergency room visits, a common consequence of poorly managed asthma. The extent of telemedicine integration, from basic video calls to more sophisticated remote monitoring systems, would directly influence the ‘Asthma Score.’

Asthma is not merely a physical ailment; it often has significant psychological and emotional components. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and conversely, poorly controlled asthma can contribute to mental health challenges. The integration of mental health resources into primary care practices is therefore essential. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established strong referral networks with mental health professionals, would receive a higher ‘Asthma Score.’ This integration ensures that patients receive holistic care, addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of their condition.

Identifying standout practices within Mount Carmel is crucial for this analysis. Practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in asthma management, as evidenced by patient outcomes, adherence to guidelines, and innovative approaches, would be highlighted. This could include practices with a high percentage of patients with well-controlled asthma, low rates of asthma-related hospitalizations, and a strong emphasis on patient education and self-management. These standout practices serve as models for other providers and contribute significantly to the overall ‘Asthma Score’ for the region.

Evaluating the availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also critical. While primary care physicians are the first line of defense, access to specialists is often necessary for complex asthma cases. The proximity of specialists, the ease of referral processes, and the availability of specialized diagnostic and treatment options would all factor into the ‘Asthma Score.’ A lack of specialist access would negatively impact the score, potentially hindering the ability of patients to receive the advanced care they need.

Furthermore, the presence of community resources supporting asthma management is a key consideration. This includes support groups, educational programs offered by local health organizations, and access to affordable medications and inhalers. The availability and accessibility of these resources contribute to a supportive environment for asthma patients, empowering them to take control of their condition. A community rich in such resources would positively influence the ‘Asthma Score.’

The socio-economic factors within Mount Carmel also play a role. Poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and inadequate housing conditions can all exacerbate asthma symptoms. The analysis needs to consider the prevalence of these factors and how healthcare providers are addressing them. Practices that are actively involved in community outreach programs, providing assistance to patients with social determinants of health, would be viewed more favorably, contributing to a higher ‘Asthma Score.’

Finally, the analysis must consider the use of data and technology to improve asthma management. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) effectively, track patient outcomes, and use data to identify areas for improvement would be recognized. This includes the use of data analytics to identify high-risk patients, personalize treatment plans, and monitor the effectiveness of interventions. A commitment to data-driven asthma management would significantly enhance the ‘Asthma Score.’

In conclusion, the ‘Asthma Score’ for Mount Carmel, PA (ZIP code 17851) is a composite measure reflecting the complex interplay of physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health integration, specialist access, community resources, socio-economic factors, and the use of data and technology. While specific scores require detailed data collection and analysis, the factors outlined above provide a framework for evaluating the asthma care landscape in this community. Understanding these elements is crucial for identifying strengths, addressing weaknesses, and ultimately improving the health outcomes for asthma patients in Mount Carmel.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Mount Carmel, including physician locations, specialist availability, and community resource locations, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data analysis.