17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 17943 has some form of health insurance. 14.29 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 85.71 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 17943 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17943. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,794 health care providers accessible to residents in 17943, Lavelle, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Physicians and Primary Care in Lavelle, PA (ZIP Code 17943)

The analysis delves into the accessibility and quality of asthma care within the 17943 ZIP code, focusing on primary care physicians and the overall healthcare landscape in Lavelle, Pennsylvania. This assessment considers factors crucial for effective asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, technological integration, and mental health support, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" perspective.

The foundation of any asthma management plan rests on the availability of qualified healthcare providers. In Lavelle and the surrounding areas, the physician-to-patient ratio for primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical metric. Determining the exact ratio requires access to up-to-date data, including the number of active PCPs practicing within a defined radius of Lavelle and the estimated population they serve. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of PCPs, can significantly hinder access to timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing asthma management. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, potentially leading to better patient outcomes. Further investigation into the specific specialties of these PCPs is necessary. Are there board-certified allergists and pulmonologists readily available within a reasonable travel distance? These specialists are often essential for managing severe or complex asthma cases.

The characteristics of the primary care practices themselves play a significant role in asthma care. Practices that prioritize patient education, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and actively monitor patient adherence to medication regimens are more likely to contribute to positive outcomes. The presence of dedicated asthma educators or nurses within a practice is a strong indicator of a commitment to patient empowerment. Practices that utilize electronic health records (EHRs) can streamline care coordination, improve medication management, and facilitate communication between patients and providers. The adoption of EHRs also allows for better tracking of patient data, enabling more effective monitoring of asthma control and identification of potential triggers.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for asthma management, particularly in rural areas like Lavelle. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide medication refills electronically can significantly improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients. Practices that have embraced telemedicine are likely to have a higher Asthma Score, as they demonstrate a commitment to utilizing technology to enhance patient convenience and improve outcomes. The availability of telehealth services is particularly important for patients with mobility limitations or those who live far from medical facilities.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety, depression, and stress are common comorbidities in individuals with asthma. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referrals is a crucial component of comprehensive asthma care. Practices that integrate mental health screening and offer access to counseling or therapy services are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. The coordination between primary care physicians and mental health professionals can improve adherence to asthma treatment plans and enhance overall quality of life.

Specific practices within the 17943 ZIP code should be evaluated based on their adherence to best practices in asthma management. This includes assessing their adherence to the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines, which provide evidence-based recommendations for asthma diagnosis, treatment, and management. Practices that consistently follow these guidelines are likely to deliver higher-quality care. Furthermore, the availability of after-hours care and emergency services is crucial. Asthma exacerbations can occur at any time, and patients need access to prompt medical attention when needed. Practices that offer extended hours or have affiliations with local urgent care centers or emergency rooms contribute to a higher Asthma Score.

The overall primary care availability in Lavelle is influenced by several factors. The geographic location of the community, its population density, and the socioeconomic status of its residents all play a role. Communities with limited access to transportation, low insurance coverage rates, and a shortage of healthcare professionals often face significant challenges in providing adequate asthma care. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including efforts to improve access to transportation, expand insurance coverage, and recruit and retain healthcare providers.

A thorough assessment of the healthcare landscape in Lavelle requires gathering data from various sources, including insurance providers, healthcare systems, and community organizations. This data should be analyzed to identify areas of strength and weakness in asthma care. The analysis should consider the specific needs of the patient population, including age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. The Asthma Score should reflect the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care in the community.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Lavelle and the surrounding areas, including physician locations, practice characteristics, and access to resources, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome provides interactive mapping solutions that can visualize healthcare data, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis of the community's healthcare needs.