17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 80.33 percent of the residents in 17979 has some form of health insurance. 18.03 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 62.30 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 17979 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17979. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 11 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,194 health care providers accessible to residents in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below assesses asthma care within Summit Station, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17979), focusing on primary care availability and related factors. The goal is to provide an informed perspective on the quality and accessibility of care for individuals managing asthma within this specific geographical area.

Summit Station, a small community nestled in Schuylkill County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in healthcare delivery. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of innovative technologies like telemedicine, and the integration of mental health services are all critical components in providing comprehensive asthma care. Assessing these elements allows for a more nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape and identifies areas for potential improvement.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a fundamental indicator of healthcare access. In a rural area like Summit Station, the number of primary care physicians per capita directly impacts the ease with which patients can schedule appointments, receive timely diagnoses, and manage chronic conditions such as asthma. A lower physician-to-patient ratio generally suggests better access, while a higher ratio may indicate longer wait times and potential difficulties in securing appointments. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, combined with information from local healthcare providers, is essential to accurately determine this ratio. This data, however, is not readily available in real time, which is a challenge.

Standout practices within the area can significantly influence the quality of asthma care. These practices often demonstrate excellence in several areas, including patient education, asthma action plan development, medication management, and regular follow-up appointments. They may also actively participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about asthma triggers and preventative measures. Identifying these practices requires a review of patient reviews, physician ratings, and evaluations from healthcare organizations. The local hospital, if present, is a key source of information, along with any local clinics or private practices.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery in rural areas. Telemedicine enables patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access to specialized care. For asthma patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual check-ups, medication adjustments, and ongoing monitoring of symptoms. The extent to which practices in Summit Station have embraced telemedicine is a critical factor in assessing the overall quality of asthma care. Factors to consider include the types of telemedicine services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), the availability of necessary technology for patients, and the reimbursement policies of insurance providers.

The integration of mental health resources is increasingly recognized as an essential component of comprehensive asthma care. Asthma can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that offer integrated mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, are better equipped to address the holistic needs of their patients. Assessing this aspect involves examining the availability of on-site mental health providers, the presence of mental health screening tools, and the existence of collaborative care models.

Specific practices in Summit Station that might be considered “standout” require a deeper dive. This includes researching the practices’ specific asthma management protocols, their patient education materials, and their responsiveness to patient needs. It also involves understanding the availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, within a reasonable distance of the ZIP code. The local hospital's website and any affiliated clinics are the first port of call.

The adoption of telemedicine varies significantly among healthcare providers. Some practices may have fully embraced telehealth, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. Others may be in the early stages of adoption, or not offer these services at all. The availability of reliable internet access in the area is also a crucial factor, as it directly impacts the feasibility of telemedicine.

Mental health resources are a critical aspect of asthma management. Patients with asthma may experience anxiety or depression related to their condition. Practices that offer mental health services, or have established referral pathways, are better equipped to provide comprehensive care. This includes mental health screening tools, access to therapists, and educational materials about the connection between asthma and mental well-being.

The analysis of asthma care in Summit Station is complex. The availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources all play a crucial role in providing quality care. While specific data on physician-to-patient ratios and the details of individual practices are essential for a comprehensive assessment, the overall picture suggests a need for continued efforts to improve access to care, particularly through the expansion of telemedicine and the integration of mental health services.

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be challenging. Understanding the availability of services, the quality of care, and the resources available is critical for patients. This analysis provides a starting point for understanding the specific challenges and opportunities in Summit Station.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Summit Station and surrounding areas, including the location of healthcare providers, the availability of resources, and other relevant data, we encourage you to explore CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps offer a dynamic and informative way to visualize healthcare data and make informed decisions about your health.