18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 100.00 percent of the residents in 18231 has some form of health insurance. 41.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 73.84 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 18231 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 119 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18231. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 22 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,617 health care providers accessible to residents in 18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Kelayres, PA (ZIP Code 18231)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within ZIP Code 18231, encompassing the community of Kelayres, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will focus on asthma care accessibility, quality, and the availability of supporting resources. We will evaluate the physicians practicing in the area, their patient loads, and the broader healthcare infrastructure, including telemedicine and mental health services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Asthma Score” assessment, highlighting strengths and weaknesses for residents managing this chronic respiratory condition.

The core of any asthma care assessment lies in the availability and expertise of primary care physicians (PCPs). In Kelayres, the PCP-to-patient ratio is a critical factor. While precise figures require access to real-time data, a general understanding can be gleaned from publicly available resources. The population density of Kelayres and the surrounding areas, coupled with the number of practicing PCPs, will determine the average patient load per physician. A high patient-to-physician ratio can indicate longer wait times for appointments, potentially hindering timely asthma management. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups and proactive intervention.

The quality of asthma care offered by PCPs is another vital component. This includes their knowledge of current asthma guidelines, their ability to accurately diagnose and manage asthma, and their willingness to collaborate with pulmonologists or other specialists when necessary. Factors such as the use of electronic health records (EHRs) and adherence to evidence-based treatment protocols are also important indicators of quality. Practices that prioritize patient education, providing clear instructions on medication use, environmental control, and asthma action plans, are likely to achieve better patient outcomes.

Beyond the number and quality of PCPs, the availability of specialist care is crucial. Pulmonologists, who specialize in respiratory diseases, are essential for managing complex or severe asthma cases. The proximity of pulmonology practices to Kelayres and the ease with which patients can access these specialists directly impacts the overall asthma score. Long travel distances or lengthy referral processes can create barriers to care, potentially leading to uncontrolled asthma and increased hospitalizations.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions like asthma. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, empowering patients to manage their condition more effectively. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and improved health outcomes.

Mental health support is often overlooked in asthma care, but it plays a significant role in overall well-being. Asthma can be a stressful condition, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources, such as therapists, counselors, and support groups, is a crucial factor in the asthma score assessment. Practices that integrate mental health services into their care model demonstrate a holistic approach to patient well-being.

Specific practices within ZIP Code 18231 may stand out for their commitment to asthma care. These practices may have a higher concentration of physicians with expertise in asthma management, offer comprehensive asthma education programs, or actively utilize telemedicine. Identifying these standout practices is essential for residents seeking high-quality asthma care. Reviewing patient testimonials, checking online ratings, and inquiring about practice protocols can provide valuable insights.

The availability of asthma medications and devices is another critical aspect of the asthma score. Access to affordable medications, inhalers, and nebulizers is essential for effective asthma management. Pharmacies within Kelayres and the surrounding areas play a crucial role in ensuring patients can obtain the necessary medications promptly. The availability of financial assistance programs for asthma medications can also improve accessibility for low-income patients.

Environmental factors also influence asthma control. Kelayres residents should be aware of local air quality reports, pollen counts, and other environmental triggers that can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Access to information about environmental hazards and resources for mitigating these triggers is important for patient education and self-management.

The overall asthma score for Kelayres, PA (ZIP Code 18231) will be determined by weighing these factors. A high score indicates excellent access to care, high-quality medical professionals, and comprehensive support services. A low score suggests potential challenges in accessing care and a need for improvement in various areas.

Assessing the primary care landscape in Kelayres, particularly the physician-to-patient ratio, is paramount. A favorable ratio suggests better access to care, enabling PCPs to dedicate more time to each patient. This is crucial for asthma management, which requires ongoing monitoring, medication adjustments, and patient education. The accessibility of specialists, especially pulmonologists, further enhances the asthma score.

Telemedicine's integration into local practices can significantly improve asthma care accessibility. Virtual consultations and remote monitoring empower patients to manage their condition effectively, particularly in areas with limited specialist access. This can lead to better adherence to treatment plans and fewer asthma-related hospitalizations. The availability of mental health resources is equally important, as asthma can significantly impact a patient's emotional well-being.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in Kelayres and to visualize the distribution of healthcare resources, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. These interactive maps can provide valuable insights into physician locations, specialist availability, and other relevant data points.