17885, Weikert, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17885, Weikert, Pennsylvania is 8 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.19 percent of the residents in 17885 has some form of health insurance. 46.88 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.41 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 17885 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 55 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17885. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 63 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 314 health care providers accessible to residents in 17885, Weikert, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17885 & Primary Care in Weikert

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly regarding asthma management, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis focuses on the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) within and serving ZIP code 17885 (Weikert, Pennsylvania) and the surrounding areas, evaluating factors crucial to effective asthma care. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all of which contribute to an "Asthma Score" for the region.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access. While precise, up-to-the-minute data on the exact number of PCPs actively practicing within ZIP code 17885 is difficult to obtain, a broader assessment of the surrounding county (Union County) and neighboring areas provides context. A low physician-to-patient ratio, indicating a higher number of patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time spent with each patient, and potential delays in diagnosis and treatment plan adjustments. Conversely, a favorable ratio suggests better access and potentially improved asthma management outcomes. The proximity of larger medical centers in nearby towns like Lewisburg and Mifflinburg influences the overall picture, as residents often seek care outside their immediate ZIP code.

Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating clinics and physician groups based on several criteria. These include the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, the use of evidence-based asthma management guidelines, patient satisfaction scores, and the integration of patient education programs. Practices that proactively offer asthma action plans, provide regular follow-up appointments, and actively monitor patient adherence to medication regimens are likely to achieve better outcomes. Furthermore, practices that demonstrate a commitment to continuous quality improvement, through data analysis and patient feedback, are likely to excel in asthma care. While specific practice names are difficult to ascertain without detailed research, a review of online reviews, insurance provider directories, and local health system websites can offer insights into the reputation and services offered by practices in the area.

Telemedicine adoption has emerged as a critical factor in improving healthcare access, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel, particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. It can facilitate regular follow-up appointments, medication management reviews, and asthma education sessions. The level of telemedicine adoption among PCPs in the 17885 area significantly impacts the Asthma Score. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring tools, are likely to provide more convenient and accessible care. Conversely, practices that have been slow to adopt telemedicine may limit access to care, especially for patients who face transportation challenges or have busy schedules.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact a patient's ability to manage their condition effectively. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources, including access to therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, is a crucial component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model, either through in-house providers or referrals to external mental health professionals, are likely to provide more holistic and effective care. The presence of readily available mental health support can improve patient outcomes and overall quality of life. Conversely, a lack of mental health resources can leave patients struggling with the emotional and psychological burdens of asthma, potentially leading to poorer disease control.

The overall Asthma Score for ZIP code 17885 and the surrounding area is a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices with specialized asthma care and patient education programs, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest limited access to PCPs, a lack of specialized asthma care, minimal telemedicine adoption, and a scarcity of mental health resources. The actual score would require detailed data collection and analysis, including surveys of local practices, patient feedback, and a review of healthcare utilization patterns.

Assessing the primary care availability in Weikert requires a similar approach. The geographic isolation of Weikert, coupled with its relatively small population, presents unique challenges to healthcare access. Residents may need to travel to nearby towns for primary care services, potentially increasing the burden of healthcare access. The availability of transportation options, such as public transportation or ride-sharing services, also influences access to care. The presence of community health centers or mobile health clinics can help address the healthcare needs of underserved populations in the area.

The quality of asthma care in Weikert is also influenced by the availability of emergency medical services (EMS). Prompt access to EMS is crucial in managing asthma exacerbations. The response times of local EMS providers, their training in asthma management, and their ability to provide timely interventions can significantly impact patient outcomes. The coordination between EMS, primary care physicians, and specialists is also vital for ensuring continuity of care.

In conclusion, evaluating the Asthma Score for ZIP code 17885 and primary care availability in Weikert is a complex undertaking. It necessitates a comprehensive assessment of physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. This assessment should consider the unique geographic and demographic characteristics of the region. For a deeper dive into the geographic distribution of healthcare resources, physician locations, and patient demographics, consider using CartoChrome maps. They offer a powerful visual tool for analyzing healthcare access and identifying areas where improvements are needed.