17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.96 percent of the residents in 17965 has some form of health insurance. 42.31 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.86 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 17965 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 364 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17965. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 401 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,272 health care providers accessible to residents in 17965, Port Carbon, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Port Carbon, PA (ZIP Code 17965)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care in Port Carbon, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17965) requires a multi-faceted approach, considering physician availability, practice characteristics, the integration of technology, and the accessibility of mental health resources. This analysis will provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating the current landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

The foundation of any asthma care assessment begins with physician-to-patient ratios. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists, presents a significant challenge for timely diagnosis, treatment initiation, and ongoing management. In Port Carbon, determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio necessitates accessing data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau. This data provides population estimates for the area and identifies the number of practicing physicians within the specified specialty. A concerning ratio suggests potential delays in care, increased emergency room visits, and poorer asthma control. Conversely, a favorable ratio indicates better access to care, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes.

Beyond raw numbers, the characteristics of local primary care practices significantly influence the Asthma Score. Practices employing certified asthma educators (CAEs) are highly desirable. CAEs possess specialized knowledge in asthma management, empowering patients with self-management skills, medication adherence strategies, and environmental control techniques. Practices that offer comprehensive asthma action plans, tailored to individual patient needs, also contribute positively to the score. These plans serve as roadmaps for patients, outlining daily medication regimens, symptom monitoring protocols, and clear instructions for escalating care when needed. The presence of in-office spirometry testing, a crucial diagnostic tool for assessing lung function, is another positive indicator.

Identifying standout practices in Port Carbon requires a deeper dive into individual practice profiles. Researching online reviews, patient testimonials, and practice websites can reveal valuable insights. Practices that prioritize patient education, actively engage in asthma research, or participate in quality improvement initiatives deserve recognition. Examining the practice's commitment to preventative care, such as offering seasonal flu shots and pneumonia vaccinations, also enhances the overall Asthma Score. Practices that actively collaborate with specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, further improve the quality of care provided.

The integration of telemedicine into asthma care delivery is a critical factor in today's healthcare landscape. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including increased accessibility, reduced travel burdens, and improved patient convenience. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication refills via online portals receive a higher Asthma Score. Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, such as Port Carbon, where geographic limitations may restrict access to in-person appointments. The ability to remotely monitor patients' symptoms, medication adherence, and environmental triggers allows for proactive interventions and prevents exacerbations.

Mental health is inextricably linked to asthma management. Chronic respiratory conditions can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within the primary care setting or through referral networks is a crucial component of a high Asthma Score. Practices that screen patients for mental health concerns, provide access to therapists or counselors, or collaborate with mental health specialists demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. Addressing the psychological aspects of asthma can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and enhance overall quality of life.

The overall Asthma Score for Port Carbon, PA (ZIP Code 17965) is a composite measure, reflecting the physician-to-patient ratio, the characteristics of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. A high score indicates readily accessible, comprehensive, and patient-centered asthma care. A low score suggests potential challenges in accessing timely and effective treatment.

To improve the Asthma Score, several recommendations are pertinent. First, efforts should be made to recruit and retain primary care physicians and pulmonologists in the area. Incentivizing physicians to practice in underserved areas, such as Port Carbon, can help address the physician shortage. Second, practices should be encouraged to adopt evidence-based asthma management guidelines, including the use of asthma action plans, patient education, and regular spirometry testing. Third, telemedicine capabilities should be expanded to increase access to care and improve patient convenience. Fourth, practices should integrate mental health services into their asthma care programs, recognizing the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of the condition. Finally, collaboration between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, allergists, and mental health professionals is essential to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.

Further research and data analysis are required to provide a definitive Asthma Score for Port Carbon. However, the framework outlined above provides a valuable starting point for assessing the current landscape and identifying areas for improvement. This framework underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach to asthma care, considering not only physician availability but also the characteristics of local practices, the integration of technology, and the accessibility of mental health resources. The goal is to ensure that all residents of Port Carbon have access to the best possible asthma care, leading to improved health outcomes and quality of life.

To visualize the geographical distribution of healthcare resources in Port Carbon and surrounding areas, and to identify potential areas for improvement in access to care, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the asthma care landscape.