18013, Bangor, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18013, Bangor, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.17 percent of the residents in 18013 has some form of health insurance. 39.05 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.89 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 18013 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 4,260 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 17 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18013. An estimate of 56 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 3,184 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,964 health care providers accessible to residents in 18013, Bangor, Pennsylvania.

Analyzing the landscape of asthma care and primary care accessibility in Bangor, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18013) requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis will delve into various factors influencing patient outcomes, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all within the context of asthma management and primary care.

Physician-to-patient ratios are a crucial indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per physician, can potentially lead to longer wait times for appointments and reduced time spent with each patient. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility. Researching the exact physician-to-patient ratio specifically for primary care physicians and pulmonologists (specialists in lung diseases, including asthma) within 18013 is essential. This data can be sourced from state medical boards, healthcare provider directories, and potentially local hospital systems. A low ratio for both primary care and pulmonology is highly desirable.

Identifying standout practices involves evaluating several criteria. These include the quality of care, patient satisfaction, and the availability of specialized asthma management programs. Practices that consistently receive high ratings from patients, offer comprehensive asthma education, and demonstrate effective asthma control rates should be considered top performers. Evaluating the presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is also a key indicator. Practices with a dedicated asthma educator can provide patients with vital skills for managing their condition, including proper inhaler technique, trigger avoidance, and action plan implementation. The availability of on-site pulmonary function testing (PFTs) for assessing lung function is another important factor.

Telemedicine has the potential to significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving adherence to treatment plans. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine within Bangor's primary care and pulmonology practices is crucial. This includes determining whether practices offer virtual appointments, remote monitoring of lung function, or other telehealth services. Practices that embrace telemedicine can offer greater convenience and potentially improve patient outcomes.

The interplay between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can contribute to anxiety and depression, while mental health conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. This analysis should investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within primary care practices or in close proximity to them. The presence of integrated behavioral health services, where mental health professionals work directly within the primary care setting, is particularly beneficial. This integration facilitates communication between healthcare providers and ensures patients receive holistic care.

Furthermore, the availability of support groups and educational programs for asthma patients in the Bangor area is vital. These resources provide patients with opportunities to connect with others who share similar experiences, learn coping strategies, and gain a better understanding of their condition. Local hospitals, community health centers, and asthma advocacy organizations often offer these valuable resources.

Analyzing the specific practices within the 18013 ZIP code requires a detailed investigation. This involves researching individual practices, examining their websites, and potentially contacting them directly to gather information about their services and resources. Key questions to ask include: What is the average wait time for an appointment? Does the practice offer after-hours care? Does the practice have a dedicated asthma management program? What type of telemedicine services are available? Are mental health services integrated into the practice?

Primary care availability in Bangor is intertwined with asthma care accessibility. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for asthma patients, providing initial diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. The availability of primary care physicians, including the number of providers and their acceptance of new patients, directly impacts access to asthma care. Investigating the number of primary care physicians accepting new patients within the 18013 ZIP code is essential.

The presence of a hospital or medical center in the area is another critical factor. Hospitals often provide specialized asthma care, including emergency services and inpatient treatment for severe asthma exacerbations. The proximity of a hospital with a dedicated pulmonology department is a significant asset for asthma patients.

Evaluating the affordability of care is another crucial aspect. This includes assessing the acceptance of various insurance plans by local practices and the availability of financial assistance programs for patients who may struggle to afford their medications or healthcare services.

In conclusion, assessing asthma care and primary care availability in Bangor (18013) requires a comprehensive analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, the quality and resources of local practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health support, and the affordability of care. A thorough investigation of these factors will provide a clear picture of the landscape of asthma care in the area.

For a visually compelling and interactive understanding of healthcare access in Bangor, including the geographic distribution of physicians, hospitals, and other resources, consider exploring the power of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a dynamic and intuitive representation of the data, allowing you to visualize the key factors discussed in this analysis and make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.