17862, Penns Creek, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17862, Penns Creek, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.66 percent of the residents in 17862 has some form of health insurance. 27.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 80.66 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 17862 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 104 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17862. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 62 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,238 health care providers accessible to residents in 17862, Penns Creek, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Penns Creek (ZIP Code 17862)

Analyzing the provision of asthma care in Penns Creek, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17862), requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, ultimately constructing an "Asthma Score" framework for the area. This score, though not a formal metric, will provide a comparative understanding of the resources available to individuals managing asthma within this specific geographic region.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests upon accessible primary care. In Penns Creek, the availability of primary care physicians is a critical factor. Determining the exact number of active primary care physicians within the ZIP code is the initial step. This figure is then compared to the population of 17862 to calculate the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnosis or treatment adjustments for asthma sufferers.

Beyond raw numbers, the distribution of these physicians matters. Are they concentrated in a single clinic, or are they dispersed throughout the area, offering greater convenience for patients? The proximity of these practices to residential areas, schools, and workplaces impacts accessibility, especially for individuals experiencing asthma exacerbations requiring immediate attention. Public transportation options also play a role, as limited access to transportation can significantly hinder access to care for those without personal vehicles.

Identifying standout practices requires examining several factors. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to asthma management through specialized training, dedicated asthma educators, and adherence to established guidelines. They might offer comprehensive asthma action plans, provide patient education materials, and proactively monitor patients' asthma control. Furthermore, these practices might participate in quality improvement initiatives focused on asthma care, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement and better patient outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Its adoption within Penns Creek’s primary care practices is crucial. Telemedicine offers the potential for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms. This is particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas, have mobility limitations, or face transportation challenges. Practices that embrace telemedicine can significantly improve access to care and enhance patient convenience.

The interplay between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, while these conditions can, in turn, exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a vital component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that offer integrated mental health services or have established partnerships with mental health professionals are better positioned to address the holistic needs of their patients.

Assessing the "Asthma Score" for Penns Creek involves synthesizing these factors. A higher score would indicate a greater availability of primary care physicians, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with specialized asthma care, widespread telemedicine adoption, and robust integration of mental health resources. Conversely, a lower score would reflect limited access to care, potential barriers to treatment, and a greater risk of poor asthma control.

Further analysis might involve examining the types of insurance accepted by local practices, as this can impact access for different patient populations. The availability of after-hours care and emergency services within the area also contributes to the overall "Asthma Score." The presence of pharmacies with readily available asthma medications and devices is another crucial factor.

The analysis also needs to consider the demographics of the population. Are there specific populations, such as children or the elderly, who are disproportionately affected by asthma? Understanding these demographic factors allows for a more targeted assessment of the resources needed to meet the specific needs of the community. This includes considering the prevalence of environmental triggers, such as allergens or air quality issues, that can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

The "Asthma Score" framework is not merely a numerical ranking. It’s a holistic assessment of the healthcare landscape. It highlights strengths and weaknesses in the provision of asthma care, guiding improvements in accessibility and quality. The score can be used to identify areas needing attention, such as increasing the number of primary care physicians, promoting telemedicine adoption, or integrating mental health services.

In conclusion, a comprehensive evaluation of asthma care in Penns Creek (17862) requires a multi-faceted approach. Analyzing physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources is critical. This analysis, culminating in a nuanced "Asthma Score," provides a valuable framework for understanding the current state of asthma care in the region.

To visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and potential areas of need within Penns Creek and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the power of spatial data analysis. Utilize the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome to gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape and optimize access to care for asthma sufferers.