17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.51 percent of the residents in 17876 has some form of health insurance. 43.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 71.50 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 17876 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 382 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17876. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 422 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,793 health care providers accessible to residents in 17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Shamokin Dam (ZIP Code 17876)

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality, particularly concerning asthma management, within Shamokin Dam (ZIP Code 17876) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will examine the availability of primary care physicians, assess the landscape of asthma care, and explore supporting resources, culminating in a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare environment for asthma patients in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests upon readily accessible primary care. In Shamokin Dam, the physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator. This ratio, reflecting the number of primary care physicians per 1,000 residents, significantly impacts appointment availability and the overall patient experience. A lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying crucial asthma management interventions. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility. Data from reputable sources, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, are essential to determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within this ZIP code. This ratio forms a foundational element of the "Asthma Score."

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. This includes the physicians' experience and expertise in asthma management. Assessing the medical practices within Shamokin Dam involves identifying those that demonstrate a commitment to asthma care. This could be reflected in their use of evidence-based treatment guidelines, patient education programs, and the availability of specialized asthma care services, such as pulmonary function testing. Practices actively participating in asthma-related community outreach or research initiatives could also be considered standout performers. This qualitative assessment of practice quality is another key component of the "Asthma Score."

The adoption of telemedicine represents a significant advancement in healthcare delivery, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, facilitating easier access to care, especially for those with mobility limitations or residing in geographically isolated areas. Examining the extent of telemedicine adoption among primary care practices in Shamokin Dam is crucial. This includes assessing the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring capabilities (e.g., for peak flow meters), and the integration of telehealth platforms into existing care workflows. Practices embracing telemedicine are likely to receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to patient convenience and improved access to care.

Asthma often coexists with other health challenges, including mental health conditions. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, making integrated mental health resources essential for comprehensive patient care. Evaluating the availability of mental health services within the primary care practices or within the broader healthcare ecosystem of Shamokin Dam is vital. This includes assessing the presence of on-site therapists, the availability of referrals to mental health specialists, and the integration of mental health screening tools into routine patient care. Practices demonstrating a commitment to addressing the mental health needs of their asthma patients contribute positively to the "Asthma Score."

Another critical aspect of asthma care is the availability of specialist referrals. Patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma often require consultation with pulmonologists or allergists. Assessing the ease of access to these specialists in the surrounding region is essential. This includes evaluating the proximity of specialist practices, the wait times for appointments, and the efficiency of the referral process. A robust network of specialist referrals contributes to the overall quality of asthma care and positively influences the "Asthma Score."

Patient education and self-management are integral to effective asthma control. Assessing the availability of patient education programs, such as asthma action plans and inhaler technique training, within primary care practices is crucial. Practices that prioritize patient education and provide resources to empower patients to manage their condition effectively are likely to demonstrate better patient outcomes. This focus on patient empowerment is a key indicator in the "Asthma Score" assessment.

The "Asthma Score" will be calculated using a weighted approach, considering the factors discussed above. The physician-to-patient ratio, quality of primary care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, specialist referral network, and patient education programs will all be assigned numerical values. These values will then be weighted based on their relative importance in asthma management. For example, physician-to-patient ratio and quality of care might be weighted more heavily than telemedicine adoption, depending on the specific context of Shamokin Dam. The final "Asthma Score" will be a numerical representation of the overall healthcare environment for asthma patients in this ZIP code.

The "Asthma Score" will provide a valuable snapshot of the current state of asthma care in Shamokin Dam. It will highlight strengths and weaknesses in the healthcare system, identifying areas for improvement. This information can be used by healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients to make informed decisions about healthcare access and quality.

By analyzing these factors, we can develop a comprehensive understanding of the asthma care landscape in Shamokin Dam. This analysis will provide valuable insights into the accessibility, quality, and comprehensiveness of asthma management services available to residents of ZIP Code 17876. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the healthcare environment and support efforts to improve asthma care outcomes.

For a visual representation of this data, including geographic mapping of physician locations, access to specialists, and other relevant factors, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offers interactive visualizations that can enhance your understanding of healthcare access and resource distribution within Shamokin Dam and the surrounding areas. This visual approach can help you identify patterns, trends, and disparities in asthma care that might not be immediately apparent through traditional data analysis.