17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.90 percent of the residents in 17929 has some form of health insurance. 37.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.19 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 17929 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 246 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17929. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 286 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,746 health care providers accessible to residents in 17929, Cressona, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Cressona, PA (ZIP Code 17929)

Cressona, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Schuylkill County, presents a unique landscape for assessing asthma care. This analysis will evaluate the quality of asthma management for residents of ZIP code 17929, focusing on primary care availability, physician-to-patient ratios, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive asthma care model. We will assess the landscape, providing a nuanced perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare ecosystem.

The availability of primary care physicians is the foundation of effective asthma management. Regular check-ups, preventative care, and timely interventions are all critical for controlling asthma symptoms and preventing exacerbations. In Cressona, the accessibility of primary care physicians is a key factor. Evaluating the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the ZIP code, or within a reasonable radius, is essential. This involves examining the physician-to-patient ratio, which provides a quantifiable measure of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per patient, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. This can be particularly detrimental for individuals with asthma, a chronic condition requiring ongoing monitoring and management.

The population of Cressona, and the surrounding areas, must also be considered. A rural area, like this one, may have fewer healthcare providers compared to more densely populated areas. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, who specialize in asthma care, is also a critical factor. Patients may need to travel outside of Cressona to access specialized care, which can pose logistical and financial challenges. The presence of these specialists, and the ease with which patients can access them, will significantly impact the overall asthma score.

Beyond physician availability, the quality of care provided by primary care practices is paramount. We need to assess the practices' adherence to established asthma guidelines. This includes evaluating their use of standardized asthma action plans, which empower patients to manage their symptoms effectively. The availability of patient education materials, such as information on asthma triggers and proper inhaler technique, is another crucial element. Practices that actively engage patients in their care and provide comprehensive education will likely demonstrate better outcomes.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Cressona can significantly improve asthma care. Telemedicine allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with asthma, who may experience difficulty traveling, or who need regular monitoring of their condition. The availability of telehealth consultations, remote monitoring devices, and virtual asthma education programs can significantly enhance the asthma score.

The integration of mental health resources is an often-overlooked aspect of asthma care. Asthma can have a significant impact on mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. These mental health challenges can, in turn, exacerbate asthma symptoms. The availability of mental health services, such as counseling and support groups, is crucial for providing holistic care. Primary care practices that screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to mental health professionals will contribute to a higher asthma score. The ease with which patients can access these services, and the integration of mental health care into the overall asthma management plan, are critical factors.

Identifying standout practices within Cressona is important. These practices often serve as models for other healthcare providers. They may have implemented innovative approaches to asthma management, such as patient-centered care models, or enhanced patient education programs. Examining their patient outcomes, such as the rate of asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations, can provide valuable insights into their effectiveness. These practices often have a strong focus on patient education, proactive management, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Physician-to-patient ratios, as mentioned earlier, are a key indicator of access. The ideal ratio varies depending on the population served and the specific needs of the community. However, a lower ratio generally indicates better access to care. Publicly available data, such as the number of primary care physicians and the population of Cressona, can be used to calculate this ratio. This information will be critical in determining the overall asthma score.

In addition to physician availability, the availability of other healthcare professionals, such as nurses, respiratory therapists, and asthma educators, is also important. These professionals play a crucial role in asthma management, providing education, support, and monitoring. The presence of a multidisciplinary team can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Data on hospitalizations and emergency room visits related to asthma can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of asthma management in Cressona. Higher rates of hospitalizations and emergency room visits may indicate inadequate asthma control or limited access to care. Analyzing this data, and comparing it to regional and national averages, will help assess the overall asthma score.

The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) can also influence the asthma score. EHRs facilitate the sharing of patient information between healthcare providers, improving care coordination and communication. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively can improve the efficiency of care delivery and enhance patient outcomes. This also enables better tracking of patient data, allowing for improved monitoring and management of asthma.

The overall asthma score for Cressona, PA (ZIP code 17929) will be a composite score, reflecting the factors discussed above. This score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality of asthma care available in the community. It will highlight areas of strength and areas where improvements are needed. The score will be a valuable tool for healthcare providers, policymakers, and residents, informing efforts to improve asthma management and patient outcomes.

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