17978, Spring Glen, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17978, Spring Glen, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 73.08 percent of the residents in 17978 has some form of health insurance. 34.75 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 50.27 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 17978 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 272 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17978. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 91 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 154 health care providers accessible to residents in 17978, Spring Glen, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Spring Glen, PA (ZIP Code 17978)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 17978, Spring Glen, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider asthma prevalence, primary care access, and the availability of resources to effectively manage this chronic respiratory condition. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," will evaluate the local medical environment, focusing on factors critical to patient well-being.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can significantly hinder access to care. Data suggests rural areas often face this challenge, and Spring Glen, with its relatively small population, might be susceptible. Determining the exact number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the ZIP code is crucial. This includes not just general practitioners, but also internal medicine specialists and family physicians. Further research should determine the total population of Spring Glen, which is essential for calculating the patient-to-physician ratio. This data point directly impacts the Asthma Score, as it influences the likelihood of timely appointments, routine check-ups, and specialist referrals – all vital for asthma management.

Beyond physician density, the types of practices present are important. Are there solo practitioners, or are there larger, multi-specialty groups? Larger groups may offer advantages like extended hours, on-site diagnostic services (e.g., pulmonary function testing), and a broader range of expertise. The presence of board-certified allergists and pulmonologists, specialists directly involved in asthma care, is a significant positive factor. These specialists can provide more specialized care and develop tailored treatment plans. The availability of pediatricians is also critical, as asthma commonly affects children.

Identifying standout practices requires investigation. This involves reviewing online patient reviews, assessing the availability of asthma education programs, and evaluating the practice's commitment to patient communication. Practices that proactively educate patients on asthma triggers, medication adherence, and emergency action plans would receive a higher Asthma Score. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is another key consideration. EHRs facilitate better care coordination, allowing physicians to access patient history, track medication usage, and share information seamlessly. Practices utilizing EHRs effectively would contribute positively to the score.

Telemedicine adoption is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, and its presence in Spring Glen is a key factor. Telemedicine offers significant benefits for asthma patients, including remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of symptoms. Practices offering telehealth appointments for follow-up visits or medication refills would enhance the Asthma Score. The accessibility of telehealth platforms, including ease of use and compatibility with various devices, also matters. The ability to connect with a physician remotely, especially during times of exacerbation, can be life-saving.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they are essential. Asthma can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety, and patients with asthma may experience depression. The availability of mental health services, including therapists and psychiatrists, within the community is a critical component of a comprehensive Asthma Score. Practices that screen for mental health issues and offer referrals to mental health professionals would be considered more patient-centered and receive a higher score. Collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health providers is also beneficial, allowing for coordinated care.

Furthermore, evaluating the accessibility of pharmacies and respiratory therapists is crucial. Pharmacies must be readily accessible, offering a wide selection of asthma medications and providing patient counseling on proper usage. The availability of respiratory therapists, who can provide education on inhaler techniques and assist with pulmonary rehabilitation, is another positive factor. Their presence can improve patient outcomes and reduce hospitalizations.

The Asthma Score should also consider the local environment. Air quality data, including pollen counts and pollution levels, is important. High levels of pollutants can trigger asthma symptoms. Public health initiatives aimed at improving air quality and educating the public about asthma triggers would contribute positively to the score. The availability of public transportation to medical facilities is another factor, particularly for patients who may not have access to personal vehicles.

Finally, community outreach programs play a crucial role. Practices that actively participate in community health fairs, provide asthma education to schools, and partner with local organizations to raise awareness about asthma would receive a higher score. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to improving the health of the community.

In conclusion, assessing the Asthma Score for Spring Glen (ZIP Code 17978) involves a complex evaluation of multiple factors. These include physician-to-patient ratios, the types of practices available, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, the accessibility of pharmacies and respiratory therapists, and the local environment. A comprehensive analysis, incorporating all these elements, will provide a more accurate picture of the healthcare landscape and identify areas for improvement.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Spring Glen, including physician locations, practice types, and proximity to pharmacies and hospitals, explore the power of data visualization with CartoChrome maps. Gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to asthma patients in your community.