17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17861 has some form of health insurance. 28.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.98 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 17861 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 61 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17861. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 28 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,091 health care providers accessible to residents in 17861, Paxtonville, Pennsylvania.

Paxtonville, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 17861 ZIP code, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Evaluating the accessibility and quality of asthma care within this rural community requires a multi-faceted approach, considering factors beyond simple physician counts. An 'Asthma Score' analysis, though hypothetical in this context, would ideally incorporate data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine utilization, and the availability of mental health support, all crucial for effective asthma management.

The physician-to-patient ratio serves as a fundamental indicator. A high ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, often translates to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially, less proactive asthma management. In Paxtonville, a thorough assessment would involve identifying the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists actively practicing within the 17861 ZIP code and its immediate surrounding areas. This data would then be compared to the total population of Paxtonville and the surrounding communities that might utilize these physicians. The resulting ratio provides a baseline understanding of the community's access to care.

Beyond sheer numbers, the characteristics of the medical practices themselves significantly impact asthma care quality. The 'Asthma Score' would need to evaluate the presence of specialized asthma clinics or dedicated asthma programs within primary care practices. These programs often offer comprehensive services, including patient education, peak flow meter training, and personalized asthma action plans, which are essential for self-management and reducing asthma exacerbations. Practices with certified asthma educators or respiratory therapists on staff would score higher, reflecting a commitment to providing specialized expertise. The availability of on-site pulmonary function testing (PFT) would also be a positive factor, enabling prompt and accurate diagnosis and monitoring of lung function.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, particularly in rural areas where geographical barriers can limit access to care. The 'Asthma Score' would assess the adoption of telemedicine by local practices. This includes evaluating whether physicians offer virtual consultations for routine follow-ups, medication management, and asthma education. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients with asthma, allowing for remote monitoring of symptoms, adjustments to treatment plans, and early intervention to prevent hospitalizations. Practices utilizing remote monitoring devices, such as connected peak flow meters, would receive a higher score, reflecting a proactive approach to patient care.

The intricate link between asthma and mental health necessitates the inclusion of mental health resources in the 'Asthma Score' analysis. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. The assessment would investigate the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices and the wider community. Practices that offer integrated behavioral health services, such as on-site therapists or partnerships with mental health providers, would score favorably. The presence of mental health support groups or educational programs specifically tailored to individuals with asthma would also contribute to a higher score, reflecting a holistic approach to patient care.

Identifying standout practices within the 17861 ZIP code requires a nuanced evaluation. A practice demonstrating a strong commitment to asthma care might exhibit several key characteristics. This could include a high percentage of patients with well-controlled asthma, as measured by objective metrics such as asthma control test (ACT) scores. The practice might also demonstrate a low rate of asthma-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits. Furthermore, practices actively participating in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives would be recognized for their dedication to advancing asthma care. The 'Asthma Score' would incorporate patient feedback through surveys and online reviews, providing valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the overall patient experience.

The geographical distribution of healthcare resources within Paxtonville also warrants consideration. The 'Asthma Score' would factor in the proximity of primary care practices, pharmacies, and emergency medical services to the residents of the community. Access to transportation is also a critical factor, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or financial constraints. Practices located in easily accessible locations, with ample parking and public transportation options, would be viewed more favorably.

In conclusion, assessing asthma care in Paxtonville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17861) requires a comprehensive 'Asthma Score' analysis. This analysis would go beyond simple physician counts, incorporating data on physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. Identifying standout practices and understanding the geographical distribution of healthcare resources are also crucial components of a thorough evaluation. This data-driven approach allows for a more accurate assessment of the quality and accessibility of asthma care within the community.

To visualize and analyze the healthcare landscape of Paxtonville and the surrounding areas, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides powerful mapping and data visualization tools that can help you understand the geographical distribution of healthcare resources, identify areas with limited access to care, and make informed decisions about improving asthma management within the community. Explore the power of CartoChrome maps to gain valuable insights and enhance your understanding of the healthcare environment in the 17861 ZIP code.