17972, Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17972, Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.71 percent of the residents in 17972 has some form of health insurance. 40.23 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.15 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 17972 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,293 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17972. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,627 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,495 health care providers accessible to residents in 17972, Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Schuylkill Haven (ZIP Code 17972)

Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania, a borough nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County, presents a unique environment for evaluating asthma care. Analyzing the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) within ZIP code 17972, alongside specific considerations for asthma management, allows for a nuanced 'Asthma Score' assessment. This analysis will delve into key aspects like physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, providing a comprehensive overview of the local healthcare landscape.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests upon accessible and competent primary care. Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can strain access, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially delayed diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Publicly available data, such as that from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, needs to be examined to determine the precise PCP-to-patient ratio within 17972. This ratio, combined with the demographics of the area (including age distribution and prevalence of asthma), will significantly influence the overall Asthma Score.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive. This involves researching practices known for their specialization or expertise in respiratory care. Some practices may have physicians board-certified in pulmonology or possess a strong track record in managing asthma. Patient reviews, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient experiences, including the responsiveness of the staff, the clarity of communication, and the effectiveness of treatment plans. Practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, both for patients and the community, should be given higher consideration. A practice's commitment to preventative care, such as routine asthma action plans and proactive management of environmental triggers, also elevates its standing.

Telemedicine has emerged as a vital tool in modern healthcare, and its adoption rate within Schuylkill Haven is a key factor. Telemedicine offers several advantages for asthma patients, including remote monitoring of symptoms, virtual consultations for medication adjustments, and convenient follow-up appointments. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, providing secure video conferencing and remote patient monitoring capabilities, will receive higher marks. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Assessing the types of telemedicine services offered and the ease of access for patients is crucial.

Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact mental health. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities, and effective asthma management requires addressing these issues. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of the Asthma Score. This includes the presence of mental health professionals within primary care practices, referrals to local therapists and psychiatrists, and access to support groups. Practices that actively screen for mental health issues and integrate mental healthcare into their asthma management plans will receive a higher rating. Collaboration between PCPs and mental health providers is essential for holistic patient care.

Evaluating the availability of asthma-specific resources is also important. This involves assessing the presence of asthma educators, respiratory therapists, and specialized asthma clinics. Practices that have dedicated staff trained in asthma management, providing patient education on triggers, medication adherence, and proper inhaler technique, will be viewed favorably. Access to pulmonary function testing (PFT) within the practice or through readily available referrals is also a critical factor.

The overall Asthma Score will be determined by weighting these factors. Physician-to-patient ratio will be a significant factor, reflecting the ease of access to care. The presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources will also carry considerable weight. Finally, the availability of asthma-specific resources will contribute to the final score. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for asthma patients, with greater access to qualified healthcare providers, advanced technologies, and comprehensive support services.

The Schuylkill Haven environment requires a comprehensive approach. The Asthma Score is not simply a numerical rating; it represents the overall quality of care, accessibility of services, and the commitment of healthcare providers to managing this chronic condition. The analysis should consider the specific challenges faced by patients in this area, including potential barriers to care, socioeconomic factors, and the availability of transportation.

Furthermore, the evaluation should consider the impact of environmental factors on asthma prevalence and severity. Schuylkill County, like many areas, may have specific environmental triggers that exacerbate asthma symptoms. The analysis should assess the awareness of local healthcare providers regarding these triggers and their ability to educate patients on mitigation strategies. This includes providing guidance on indoor air quality, allergen control, and the impact of outdoor pollutants.

The goal is to provide a clear and concise assessment that can be used by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve asthma care within Schuylkill Haven. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, this analysis can help guide efforts to enhance access to care, improve the quality of services, and ultimately, improve the lives of individuals living with asthma. This requires a continuous monitoring and evaluation process, as the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving.

For a more detailed, interactive, and visually compelling understanding of the healthcare landscape in Schuylkill Haven, including the location of practices, physician specializations, and accessibility metrics, we encourage you to explore the power of geospatial analysis.

**Visit CartoChrome maps today to visualize the data and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.**