17967, Ringtown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17967, Ringtown, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.71 percent of the residents in 17967 has some form of health insurance. 40.28 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 78.24 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 17967 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 426 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17967. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 507 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,485 health care providers accessible to residents in 17967, Ringtown, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Ringtown, PA (ZIP Code 17967)

Ringtown, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP Code 17967, presents a unique landscape for asthma management. This analysis delves into the accessibility and quality of asthma care, focusing on primary care availability and the resources available to patients. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the integration of mental health resources, providing a comprehensive asthma score assessment.

The foundation of effective asthma care rests upon the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs). The physician-to-patient ratio within 17967 is a crucial metric. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can significantly impact access to timely appointments, preventative care, and ongoing management. Researching this ratio is paramount. We need to determine the number of practicing PCPs within the ZIP code and compare it to the total population. This data, readily available through sources like the U.S. Census Bureau and state medical licensing boards, will paint a clear picture of the initial accessibility challenge.

Beyond sheer numbers, the distribution of PCPs is also important. Are the available physicians concentrated in a single location, or are they dispersed throughout the community, making access easier for residents in different areas of Ringtown? This geographic analysis helps determine if certain segments of the population face greater barriers to care.

Identifying standout practices within the area requires a deeper dive. We must investigate the practices' reputations, focusing on patient reviews, online ratings, and referrals from specialists. Are there any practices that are consistently praised for their asthma management, patient education, and responsiveness to patient needs? These practices may have implemented best practices, such as comprehensive asthma action plans, regular follow-up appointments, and patient education materials.

Telemedicine adoption presents a significant opportunity to improve asthma care accessibility. The ability to conduct virtual consultations, monitor patients remotely, and provide medication refills electronically can be especially beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like asthma. We must assess the extent to which local PCPs offer telemedicine services. Are virtual appointments readily available? Do practices utilize remote monitoring devices to track patient symptoms and medication adherence? The level of telemedicine integration directly impacts the asthma score.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression can exacerbate asthma symptoms, and the chronic nature of the condition can contribute to mental health challenges. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. We need to investigate whether local PCPs offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals. Are there therapists or counselors specializing in chronic illness management available in the area? This integration significantly boosts the asthma score.

Furthermore, the availability of specialized asthma care is crucial. While PCPs are the first line of defense, patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma often require the expertise of pulmonologists or allergists. We must determine the proximity of these specialists to Ringtown. Are there pulmonologists and allergists within a reasonable driving distance? The presence of these specialists ensures that patients have access to advanced diagnostic tools, specialized treatments, and comprehensive asthma management plans.

Another factor influencing the asthma score is patient education. Do local practices provide patients with comprehensive asthma education materials? Are they teaching patients about triggers, medication management, and emergency protocols? The quality and accessibility of patient education directly affect a patient's ability to self-manage their condition and prevent exacerbations.

The presence of support groups and community resources can also play a vital role. Are there local asthma support groups where patients can connect with each other, share experiences, and receive peer support? Does the community offer educational programs or workshops focused on asthma management? The availability of these resources can empower patients and improve their overall quality of life.

Analyzing prescription patterns is another facet of the assessment. We must examine the types of asthma medications prescribed by local PCPs. Are they prescribing appropriate medications based on current guidelines and patient needs? Are they utilizing both controller medications and rescue inhalers effectively? The appropriateness of medication choices has a direct impact on asthma control and the patient's overall health.

Finally, the analysis should consider the local environment. Are there any known environmental factors in Ringtown that may trigger asthma symptoms, such as air pollution or high pollen counts? Does the community have any programs in place to address these environmental factors? The presence of environmental triggers can significantly impact asthma management, and addressing these factors is critical for improving the asthma score.

In conclusion, assessing the asthma score for Ringtown, PA (ZIP Code 17967) requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves evaluating physician-to-patient ratios, identifying standout practices, assessing telemedicine adoption, and evaluating the integration of mental health resources. This comprehensive analysis will provide valuable insights into the accessibility and quality of asthma care in the area, ultimately helping patients manage their condition effectively.

To visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and environmental factors impacting asthma management in Ringtown, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. Their interactive platform can provide a visual representation of the data, revealing patterns and insights that might otherwise be missed.