17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.78 percent of the residents in 17982 has some form of health insurance. 53.33 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.62 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 17982 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 37 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 17982. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 173 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,811 health care providers accessible to residents in 17982, Tuscarora, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: ZIP Code 17982 and Primary Care in Tuscarora

Analyzing healthcare accessibility and quality in a specific geographic area like ZIP Code 17982 (Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania) and considering the broader context of primary care availability in Tuscarora, requires a multi-faceted approach. The “Asthma Score” analysis, while not a formal metric, allows us to evaluate the factors influencing asthma management, a chronic respiratory condition heavily impacted by access to care, specialist availability, and community resources. This analysis will delve into physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources, ultimately painting a picture of the healthcare landscape for asthma sufferers in this region.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial indicator of accessibility. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and potentially, delayed diagnosis and treatment. In 17982, the exact physician-to-patient ratio will fluctuate depending on the specific specialty considered. Primary care physicians, pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases), and allergists (specialists in allergies, often linked to asthma) are of particular importance. Publicly available data from sources like the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) can provide estimates of physician density. However, these data often reflect county-level statistics, which may not accurately represent the situation within a single ZIP code.

Furthermore, the availability of specialists in pulmonology and allergy is vital. Patients with asthma often require regular monitoring and treatment adjustments, and access to specialists ensures appropriate care. If specialist availability is limited, patients may need to travel outside the ZIP code for appointments, adding to the burden of managing their condition. In Tuscarora, the accessibility of primary care physicians is equally important. Primary care providers often act as the first point of contact for patients with asthma, providing initial diagnoses, prescribing medications, and coordinating care with specialists.

Identifying standout practices within 17982 is crucial. These practices may demonstrate excellence in asthma management through various means. They could have a dedicated asthma clinic, offer comprehensive patient education programs, or utilize innovative treatment approaches. Factors such as the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to track patient outcomes, adherence to national guidelines for asthma management, and patient satisfaction scores can differentiate these practices. Researching local hospitals and clinics, reviewing online patient testimonials, and consulting with local advocacy groups can help identify these high-performing practices.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical element. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural or underserved areas. Telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations with physicians, remote monitoring of lung function, and medication management. Practices that embrace telemedicine can reduce the need for in-person visits, saving patients time and travel costs. The availability of reliable internet access within the community is a prerequisite for successful telemedicine implementation.

The connection between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can trigger anxiety and depression, and conversely, mental health conditions can worsen asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a vital component of comprehensive asthma care. This includes access to mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, as well as support groups and educational programs. Integration of mental health services into primary care or specialist practices can enhance patient outcomes. The presence of community mental health centers, behavioral health providers, and readily available mental health resources in 17982 and Tuscarora is essential for holistic asthma management.

The ability to access and analyze the data is paramount. The availability of local health data, including demographics, prevalence of asthma, and utilization of healthcare services, is crucial for a comprehensive assessment. Public health agencies, such as the Pennsylvania Department of Health, often collect and disseminate this information. Analyzing these data can reveal disparities in asthma care and identify areas where interventions are needed.

In conclusion, the “Asthma Score” analysis for ZIP Code 17982 and primary care availability in Tuscarora highlights the complex interplay of factors affecting asthma management. Physician-to-patient ratios, specialist availability, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources all contribute to the overall quality of care. Understanding these factors is essential for improving asthma outcomes and ensuring that patients have access to the care they need.

To further visualize and understand the healthcare landscape in Schuylkill Haven and Tuscarora, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a spatial representation of healthcare resources, allowing for a deeper understanding of accessibility and identifying potential gaps in care. Explore the possibilities and gain a more comprehensive perspective on healthcare accessibility in your area.