18072, Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18072, Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.11 percent of the residents in 18072 has some form of health insurance. 37.41 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 74.28 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 18072 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,187 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 26 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18072. An estimate of 36 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,483 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 23,075 health care providers accessible to residents in 18072, Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18072 & Primary Care in Pen Argyl

Pen Argyl, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 18072 ZIP code, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Assessing the availability and quality of asthma care, a crucial component of primary care, requires a nuanced examination of physician-to-patient ratios, practice specializations, the integration of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" perspective, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of healthcare access within this specific community.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment lies in understanding physician density. The physician-to-patient ratio in 18072 is a critical indicator. While precise figures fluctuate, a lower ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to specialized care, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Researching the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists specifically practicing within the ZIP code or serving its population is the first step. The presence of board-certified allergists or immunologists, specialists often involved in asthma management, further enhances the "Asthma Score." A higher concentration of these specialists would positively influence the score, signaling a more robust network of care providers.

Beyond sheer numbers, the specialization of available physicians plays a crucial role. The "Asthma Score" benefits significantly from the presence of practices with a demonstrated commitment to asthma management. This includes practices that actively participate in asthma education programs, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and utilize evidence-based treatment protocols. Investigating the specific training and experience of individual physicians within the ZIP code becomes paramount. Do they regularly attend continuing medical education (CME) courses focused on asthma? Are they involved in any local or regional asthma-related initiatives? These factors contribute to a higher score, reflecting a commitment to staying current with best practices in asthma care.

Telemedicine adoption represents another critical element. The "Asthma Score" is positively impacted by practices that offer telehealth services, particularly for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. Telemedicine can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who may face transportation challenges or live in more remote areas. Examining which practices in 18072 offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring capabilities (like peak flow meter readings), and online patient portals for communication and prescription refills is essential. A practice with a robust telemedicine infrastructure would receive a higher score, reflecting a commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

The integration of mental health resources within primary care settings also significantly influences the "Asthma Score." Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively affect overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health support within the healthcare system is crucial. Practices that offer on-site mental health professionals, or have strong referral networks to mental health specialists, contribute positively to the score. This demonstrates a holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health.

Identifying standout practices in 18072 requires a deeper dive. This involves investigating the patient reviews, practice accreditations, and the availability of ancillary services. Practices with consistently positive patient feedback, demonstrating a commitment to patient satisfaction and effective communication, would receive a higher score. Accreditation by reputable organizations, such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), also reflects a commitment to quality care. Furthermore, the availability of ancillary services, such as on-site respiratory therapists or asthma educators, can significantly enhance the quality of asthma management. These services contribute to a more comprehensive and patient-centered approach, boosting the "Asthma Score."

Analyzing the availability of specific asthma medications and devices within the local pharmacies is also important. Does the local pharmacy stock a wide range of inhalers, nebulizers, and other asthma-related medications? Are they knowledgeable about asthma medications and able to offer patient counseling? Access to these resources is critical for effective asthma management, and a practice that facilitates easy access to these resources would receive a higher score.

The geographical location of healthcare providers within 18072, and their proximity to public transportation, also influences the "Asthma Score." Practices located in easily accessible areas, particularly for those without personal vehicles, improve access to care.

The "Asthma Score" for doctors in 18072, and primary care availability in Pen Argyl, is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular monitoring of physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources is essential to ensure that the community receives the best possible asthma care. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the current state of healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement. The ultimate goal is to empower patients with the information they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare and to support the efforts of healthcare providers in delivering high-quality asthma care.

To gain a comprehensive visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Pen Argyl and the surrounding areas, including the location of physicians, pharmacies, and other relevant resources, explore the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can visually represent the data discussed in this analysis, providing a clear and concise overview of healthcare access within the 18072 ZIP code.