17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.88 percent of the residents in 17936 has some form of health insurance. 32.20 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.10 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 17936 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 369 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17936. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 189 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,774 health care providers accessible to residents in 17936, Gordon, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Gordon, PA (ZIP Code 17936)

Analyzing asthma care accessibility and quality in Gordon, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17936) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, examine telemedicine adoption, and investigate the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of managing asthma. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, offering a nuanced understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible primary care. Gordon, a small community, likely faces challenges common to rural areas. The density of primary care physicians is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio indicates a potential strain on resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. Conversely, a higher ratio, while seemingly positive, doesn't guarantee quality. The expertise of the physicians, their training in asthma management, and their commitment to patient education are equally important.

To determine a meaningful "Asthma Score," we must consider the specific practices within the ZIP code. Identifying practices that specialize in respiratory care or demonstrate a strong focus on asthma management is crucial. These "standout practices" often employ evidence-based guidelines, offer comprehensive patient education, and actively monitor patients' asthma control. These practices might utilize spirometry testing, peak flow meters, and personalized action plans. Their dedication to patient empowerment significantly impacts asthma control and reduces hospitalizations.

Telemedicine adoption presents another critical element. The geographical limitations of rural areas can be partially overcome through telehealth. Virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online asthma education programs can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or transportation challenges. The availability of telemedicine services, the ease of use for both patients and physicians, and the integration of these services into the overall care plan directly influence the "Asthma Score."

Beyond the purely medical aspects, the availability of mental health resources plays a vital role in asthma management. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these conditions can worsen asthma symptoms and overall quality of life. The presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the local healthcare system is crucial. Integration of mental health services into asthma care, either through co-located practices or referral networks, enhances the holistic approach to patient well-being.

Evaluating the "Asthma Score" also requires a deeper dive into the practices themselves. Are they accepting new patients? What insurance plans do they accept? Do they have after-hours care options? These practical considerations directly impact a patient's ability to access timely and appropriate care. The presence of a well-organized referral system, connecting patients with specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also a key indicator of a strong "Asthma Score."

Furthermore, the "Asthma Score" should reflect the community's overall health infrastructure. The presence of local pharmacies that offer asthma medications, nebulizers, and other necessary supplies is essential. The availability of emergency medical services, including ambulances equipped to handle asthma exacerbations, is also a critical factor. The coordination between primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency services creates a cohesive healthcare network that supports effective asthma management.

The specific "Asthma Score" for Gordon (ZIP Code 17936) would be determined by a detailed analysis of these factors. This would involve gathering data on physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community health infrastructure. The data would then be weighted based on their relative importance to asthma management. For example, physician-to-patient ratio might be weighted less heavily if several practices demonstrate exceptional asthma care practices.

The "Asthma Score" would not only provide a snapshot of the current healthcare landscape but also highlight areas for improvement. This could include advocating for increased physician recruitment, promoting telemedicine adoption, or expanding mental health services. The score could also be used to educate patients about the resources available to them and empower them to take an active role in their asthma management.

In conclusion, evaluating asthma care in Gordon, PA (ZIP Code 17936) demands a thorough investigation. The "Asthma Score" should encapsulate physician availability, practice quality, telemedicine integration, mental health support, and community resources. This comprehensive approach provides a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system.

To gain a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Gordon, PA (ZIP Code 17936), including physician locations, practice details, and resource availability, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can help you visualize the data and gain a better understanding of the accessibility and quality of asthma care in your community.