17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.08 percent of the residents in 17888 has some form of health insurance. 35.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.37 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 17888 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 126 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 5 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17888. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 100 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,065 health care providers accessible to residents in 17888, Wilburton, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Wilburton, PA (ZIP Code 17888)

Wilburton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Northumberland County, presents a unique healthcare landscape. This analysis focuses on the availability and quality of primary care, specifically examining factors relevant to asthma management within the 17888 ZIP code. Our assessment utilizes an "Asthma Score," a hypothetical metric incorporating physician density, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and access to mental health resources – all crucial for effective asthma care.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a foundational element. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially compromised care, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Data analysis suggests that the physician density in 17888, and indeed the broader Northumberland County, is below the national average. This scarcity of primary care physicians necessitates careful consideration of access strategies. Patients may face challenges in securing timely appointments, especially during peak asthma seasons. This underscores the importance of efficient practice management and alternative care models.

Standout practices in the area are those that demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma management. These practices often feature dedicated asthma educators, registered nurses specializing in asthma care, and readily available peak flow meters and inhaler training. They also proactively engage in patient education, empowering individuals to manage their condition effectively. Such practices will have established protocols for asthma action plans, ensuring patients know how to respond to worsening symptoms. The practices that excel in asthma care will also maintain strong relationships with pulmonologists and allergists, facilitating seamless referrals when specialized care is required.

Telemedicine adoption is a crucial factor in improving asthma care access, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, utilizing platforms for video appointments and remote patient monitoring, can significantly improve the convenience and accessibility of care. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. The success of telemedicine, however, hinges on reliable internet access, a challenge in some parts of Wilburton.

Mental health resources are an often-overlooked, yet critical, component of asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health screening and counseling services into their asthma care model are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. This can involve partnering with local mental health professionals, providing on-site counseling, or offering referrals to appropriate resources. The availability of these resources directly impacts the overall Asthma Score.

The analysis of primary care availability in Wilburton reveals several key areas for improvement. The low physician-to-patient ratio necessitates innovative solutions to enhance access to care. This includes promoting the use of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, as well as exploring opportunities for collaborative care models. These models can involve partnerships between primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers to provide coordinated and comprehensive care.

Improving telemedicine infrastructure is also essential. Expanding broadband internet access throughout the region would enable more patients to benefit from virtual consultations and remote monitoring. This requires collaboration between healthcare providers, internet service providers, and local government agencies.

Furthermore, strengthening the integration of mental health services into asthma care is paramount. This could involve training primary care physicians to screen for mental health conditions, providing on-site counseling services, or establishing partnerships with local mental health providers.

The Asthma Score for Wilburton, based on these factors, is likely moderate. While some practices may excel in specific areas, such as patient education or telemedicine adoption, the overall score is hampered by the low physician-to-patient ratio and the need for improved mental health integration. The score reflects the need for ongoing efforts to improve access to care, enhance practice efficiency, and address the holistic needs of asthma patients.

The practices that prioritize comprehensive asthma management, including patient education, regular monitoring, and access to mental health resources, will be the ones that truly stand out. They will be the ones that are most successful in improving patient outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with asthma in Wilburton.

The future of asthma care in Wilburton depends on a collaborative approach. Healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies must work together to address the challenges and create a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and effective. This includes promoting preventative care, investing in healthcare infrastructure, and ensuring that all patients have access to the resources they need to manage their condition effectively.

A deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Wilburton, including the location of primary care providers, their specialties, and the services they offer, is crucial for both patients and healthcare professionals. The ability to visualize this data, to identify areas of need, and to track progress over time is invaluable.