18218, Coaldale, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18218, Coaldale, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.56 percent of the residents in 18218 has some form of health insurance. 54.86 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 55.80 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 18218 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 582 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18218. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 342 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,666 health care providers accessible to residents in 18218, Coaldale, Pennsylvania.

The analysis below aims to assess the quality of asthma care and primary care availability within ZIP Code 18218, focusing on the town of Coaldale, Pennsylvania. This assessment will consider physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the availability of mental health resources, all factors influencing an ‘Asthma Score’ for the area.

Coaldale, like many rural communities, faces challenges in healthcare access. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator. A lower ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to specialized care, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Analyzing the specific ratio within 18218 requires data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, cross-referenced with physician directories. This data will reveal the density of primary care physicians (PCPs), pulmonologists (specialists in lung health), and other relevant specialists. A low ratio, particularly for pulmonologists, would significantly impact the Asthma Score, as timely access to specialized care is crucial for effective asthma management.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care provided by existing practices is paramount. Identifying "standout practices" involves evaluating factors like patient reviews, accreditation status (e.g., from the National Committee for Quality Assurance), and the use of evidence-based asthma management guidelines. Practices that actively engage in patient education, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and regularly monitor patient outcomes would score higher. The presence of certified asthma educators within a practice is a particularly positive indicator, signifying a commitment to patient empowerment and self-management.

The adoption of telemedicine is another crucial element. Telemedicine, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and online educational resources, can significantly improve asthma care, especially in areas with limited physical access to healthcare providers. Practices that offer telehealth options can reach a wider patient population, provide more frequent follow-up appointments, and offer convenient access to care for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth services directly impacts the Asthma Score by enhancing accessibility and promoting proactive asthma management.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in the context of asthma care, but they play a significant role. Asthma can be a chronic condition that impacts quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that integrate mental health services, either through on-site therapists or referrals to mental health professionals, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. The availability of these resources would positively influence the Asthma Score, reflecting a commitment to addressing the psychological aspects of asthma management.

To determine the Asthma Score for Coaldale, a weighted scoring system would be employed. This system would assign points based on the factors discussed above. For instance, a high physician-to-patient ratio would negatively impact the score, while the presence of a certified asthma educator would positively impact it. Telemedicine adoption and the integration of mental health services would also contribute to the overall score. The final score would provide a comprehensive assessment of the quality of asthma care and primary care availability within the specified ZIP Code.

Specific examples of practices within 18218 would need to be identified through detailed research. This would involve consulting online physician directories, reviewing patient reviews, and contacting local healthcare providers to gather information about their services and practices. This research would reveal which practices are leading the way in asthma management and primary care delivery. The practices' commitment to evidence-based medicine, patient education, and the use of technology would be key differentiators.

The presence of a hospital or urgent care facility within or near Coaldale also influences the Asthma Score. These facilities provide immediate access to care during asthma exacerbations. The availability of emergency services, including 24/7 access to a pulmonologist or respiratory therapist, is crucial for managing severe asthma attacks. The proximity and quality of these emergency services would be factored into the overall assessment.

Another aspect to consider is the availability of community resources. Support groups for asthma patients, educational programs offered by local health organizations, and access to affordable medications all contribute to the overall quality of care. These resources empower patients to manage their condition effectively and improve their quality of life. The presence and accessibility of these resources would be considered when determining the Asthma Score.

The analysis would also need to consider socioeconomic factors. Poverty, lack of insurance, and other social determinants of health can significantly impact asthma outcomes. These factors would be considered to provide a more nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by asthma patients in Coaldale. The analysis would identify any disparities in access to care and suggest strategies to address them.

The Asthma Score is not a static number. It is a reflection of the current state of healthcare in Coaldale. The score can be improved through various initiatives, such as increasing the number of healthcare providers, promoting the adoption of telemedicine, and expanding access to mental health services. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

In conclusion, assessing the ‘Asthma Score’ for doctors in ZIP Code 18218, specifically within Coaldale, requires a comprehensive analysis of physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. This analysis should also consider socioeconomic factors and the availability of community resources. This assessment provides a valuable tool for understanding the strengths and weaknesses of asthma care and primary care availability in the area.

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