17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.29 percent of the residents in 17948 has some form of health insurance. 51.72 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 47.11 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 17948 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,100 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 6 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17948. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 659 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,784 health care providers accessible to residents in 17948, Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Mahanoy City, PA (ZIP Code 17948)

Assessing the quality of asthma care in Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17948) requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," will examine the availability and quality of primary care, focusing on physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of the resources available to individuals managing asthma in this specific geographic area.

The foundation of effective asthma management lies in accessible and competent primary care. In Mahanoy City, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures fluctuate, the area often experiences a shortage of primary care physicians compared to the national average. This can lead to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment adjustments. The impact is amplified for asthma sufferers, who often require frequent check-ups and proactive management strategies. A lower physician-to-patient ratio, indicating greater access, would contribute positively to the Asthma Score.

Identifying standout practices is crucial. These are medical facilities that demonstrate excellence in asthma care. This includes practices with board-certified allergists or pulmonologists, or those that have developed specialized asthma clinics. The presence of certified asthma educators (CAEs) within a practice is also a significant indicator of quality. CAEs provide patients with vital education on asthma triggers, medication usage, and self-management techniques. Practices with these features would receive a higher score, reflecting their commitment to comprehensive asthma care. Furthermore, practices that actively participate in asthma research or clinical trials would also be considered highly valuable.

Telemedicine adoption presents both opportunities and challenges in Mahanoy City. Telemedicine, the use of technology to deliver healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma. It can reduce the need for travel, making it easier for patients to attend follow-up appointments and receive medication adjustments. However, successful telemedicine implementation requires reliable internet access, patient comfort with technology, and physician training. The Asthma Score would reflect the extent to which practices in Mahanoy City have embraced telemedicine, considering the availability of these resources and the utilization rates among asthma patients.

The often-overlooked aspect of asthma management is the integration of mental health resources. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can worsen asthma symptoms and negatively affect treatment adherence. Practices that recognize this and integrate mental health services into their care models would receive a higher score. This includes having mental health professionals on staff, offering referrals to mental health specialists, and incorporating mental health screenings into routine asthma check-ups. The ability to address the psychological aspects of asthma is crucial for holistic patient care.

Specific practices in Mahanoy City should be evaluated based on these criteria. This requires gathering data from various sources, including patient reviews, insurance provider information, and practice websites. The analysis should consider the availability of specific asthma medications, the presence of specialized equipment like spirometers, and the practice's approach to patient education. Practices that demonstrate a proactive and patient-centered approach to asthma management would be ranked higher.

The overall Asthma Score for Mahanoy City would be a composite of these factors. A high score would indicate excellent access to primary care, the presence of standout practices, effective telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources. A lower score would highlight areas for improvement, such as addressing physician shortages, promoting telemedicine adoption, and expanding mental health services.

The assessment of primary care availability in Mahanoy City extends beyond the number of physicians. It involves evaluating the quality of care provided, the accessibility of services, and the integration of comprehensive support systems. The goal is to create a healthcare environment that empowers individuals with asthma to effectively manage their condition and live healthier lives.

The analysis needs to consider the socio-economic factors affecting the community. The prevalence of asthma can be influenced by environmental factors, such as air quality and housing conditions. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions and improving asthma outcomes. The Asthma Score should incorporate these considerations to provide a more complete picture of the healthcare landscape.

The analysis also needs to consider the role of community resources. Local pharmacies, support groups, and community health organizations can play a vital role in asthma management. The Asthma Score should reflect the availability of these resources and the extent to which they are integrated into the healthcare system. This includes assessing the accessibility of asthma medications, the availability of patient education materials, and the presence of support groups for individuals with asthma and their families.

The ultimate goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the asthma care landscape in Mahanoy City. This information can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve the quality of care and ensure that individuals with asthma have access to the resources they need to thrive. The Asthma Score should be a dynamic tool, updated regularly to reflect changes in the healthcare environment and the implementation of new initiatives.

To gain a visual understanding of the geographical distribution of these factors, including physician locations, practice locations, and the availability of resources, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps offer a powerful platform for visualizing and analyzing geographic data, allowing you to identify patterns and trends that might otherwise be missed.