18087, Trexlertown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18087, Trexlertown, Pennsylvania is 88 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.75 percent of the residents in 18087 has some form of health insurance. 35.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.84 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 18087 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 115 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 34 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18087. An estimate of 30 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 73 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 32,589 health care providers accessible to residents in 18087, Trexlertown, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Trexlertown, PA (ZIP Code 18087)

Trexlertown, Pennsylvania, nestled in Lehigh County, presents a specific set of healthcare challenges, particularly concerning asthma management. This analysis examines the availability and quality of primary care services within the 18087 ZIP code, focusing on factors crucial for asthma patients. We will assess physician-to-patient ratios, highlight standout practices, investigate telemedicine adoption, and explore the presence of mental health resources, all contributing to an "Asthma Score" reflecting the overall suitability of this area for individuals with asthma.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a fundamental indicator of access to care. A higher ratio, meaning more patients per doctor, can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially less individualized care. While precise, real-time data on this ratio is difficult to obtain publicly, analyzing publicly available information, such as the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, allows for estimations. We can assess the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) actively practicing within the 18087 ZIP code and compare that to the population of Trexlertown. Furthermore, we must consider the catchment area of these physicians, as patients may travel outside the ZIP code for care. This initial assessment provides a baseline understanding of the potential strain on the existing primary care infrastructure.

Identifying standout practices is crucial for asthma patients. This involves evaluating practices based on their expertise in asthma management, their commitment to patient education, and their adherence to evidence-based guidelines. We look for practices that actively participate in asthma-related continuing medical education (CME) programs, utilize asthma action plans, and offer comprehensive pulmonary function testing. Reviews from patients, although often subjective, provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication, empathy, and the effectiveness of treatment plans. Practices that consistently receive positive feedback regarding their asthma care demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality services.

Telemedicine adoption has significantly impacted healthcare accessibility, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine offers several advantages, including reduced travel time, increased convenience, and the potential for more frequent monitoring. In the context of asthma, telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication adjustments, and education on asthma triggers and management techniques. We must assess the availability of telemedicine services offered by primary care practices in Trexlertown. This includes evaluating the platforms used, the types of services offered (e.g., video consultations, remote monitoring), and the ease of access for patients. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to patient care and a willingness to leverage technology to improve outcomes.

The link between asthma and mental health is well-established. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these conditions can worsen asthma symptoms and impact overall quality of life. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive asthma care. We need to investigate the presence of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, within the 18087 ZIP code or readily accessible to residents. We will assess whether primary care practices offer integrated mental health services or have established referral pathways to mental health providers. Practices that recognize the importance of mental health and provide access to these resources are better equipped to address the holistic needs of asthma patients.

Evaluating the overall "Asthma Score" requires synthesizing all the above information. The score is not a single number but a composite assessment reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Trexlertown. A high score would indicate a favorable environment for asthma patients, characterized by a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices with expertise in asthma management, widespread telemedicine adoption, and readily available mental health resources. Conversely, a low score would suggest potential challenges, such as limited access to care, a lack of specialized expertise, and inadequate support for mental health needs.

The "Asthma Score" also considers the presence of support groups and educational programs for asthma patients and their families. These resources provide valuable information, peer support, and coping strategies. Practices that actively promote and participate in these initiatives demonstrate a commitment to empowering patients to manage their condition effectively.

Furthermore, we need to consider the availability of emergency services and specialized pulmonary care within reasonable proximity to Trexlertown. Access to prompt and effective care during asthma exacerbations is crucial. Proximity to hospitals with specialized pulmonary departments and emergency rooms equipped to handle asthma emergencies significantly impacts the overall "Asthma Score."

The transportation infrastructure within Trexlertown also plays a role. Access to reliable transportation is essential for attending appointments, accessing medications, and participating in support programs. The availability of public transportation options and the ease of navigating the area by car are factors that influence the accessibility of healthcare services.

Finally, the "Asthma Score" considers the socioeconomic factors within Trexlertown. Income levels, insurance coverage rates, and access to affordable medications can significantly impact asthma outcomes. Areas with higher rates of poverty and limited access to healthcare resources often experience poorer asthma control.

In conclusion, assessing the "Asthma Score" for Trexlertown (ZIP Code 18087) requires a comprehensive evaluation of several interconnected factors. Physician-to-patient ratios, the quality of primary care practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, the availability of support programs, proximity to emergency services, transportation infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors all contribute to the overall assessment. This analysis provides a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas where improvements can be made to better serve the needs of asthma patients in Trexlertown.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Trexlertown and surrounding areas, including the location of primary care practices, hospitals, and pharmacies, we recommend exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the resources available in your community.