18240, Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18240, Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 82.71 percent of the residents in 18240 has some form of health insurance. 46.11 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.79 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 18240 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 737 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18240. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 862 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,656 health care providers accessible to residents in 18240, Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Nesquehoning, PA (ZIP Code 18240)

Analyzing the asthma care landscape in Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18240) requires a multi-faceted approach. We must consider not only the raw number of physicians available, but also the quality of care, accessibility, and integration of supportive services. This analysis aims to provide an “Asthma Score” ranking, although it is important to note that a precise numerical score is difficult to calculate without comprehensive data access. Instead, this report offers a qualitative assessment based on publicly available information and general industry trends.

The primary focus of this analysis centers around primary care availability, as primary care physicians (PCPs) often serve as the first point of contact for asthma management. The physician-to-patient ratio is a crucial metric. A lower ratio, indicating more patients per physician, can lead to longer wait times, reduced appointment availability, and potentially, less individualized care. Publicly available data, such as the US Census Bureau and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, can provide estimates of the population within the 18240 ZIP code. Combining this population data with information on the number of practicing PCPs within the area allows for an initial assessment of the physician-to-patient ratio. This data is not always readily available and requires careful research and cross-referencing.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care delivered is paramount. This is where the assessment becomes more nuanced. Identifying standout practices involves investigating their approach to asthma management. Do they adhere to the latest guidelines from organizations like the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA)? Do they employ comprehensive asthma action plans tailored to individual patients? Do they offer patient education resources, such as classes or informational materials? Searching for patient reviews, while subjective, can provide insights into patient satisfaction and perceived quality of care. Checking for accreditations or certifications related to asthma management, such as those offered by professional medical organizations, can be a valuable indicator of commitment to high standards.

Telemedicine adoption is another critical factor in the Asthma Score. Telemedicine, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural or underserved areas. For asthma patients, telemedicine can facilitate virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring devices, would receive a higher score in this area. Information on telemedicine adoption can sometimes be found on practice websites or through insurance provider directories.

Mental health resources are increasingly recognized as integral to overall health, including asthma management. Asthma can be exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and depression. Practices that integrate mental health services or offer referrals to mental health professionals would be viewed favorably. This could involve having a mental health specialist on staff, partnering with local therapists, or providing resources for patients to access mental health support. The availability and integration of mental health services is a significant factor in improving the Asthma Score.

The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists (doctors specializing in lung diseases), is also essential, especially for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. While PCPs often manage asthma, access to a pulmonologist is crucial for more complex cases. The distance to the nearest pulmonology practice and the ease of referral are important considerations. Analyzing the proximity of specialists and the referral patterns of local PCPs is crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

Specific practices in Nesquehoning (18240) require individual investigation. Publicly available information, such as practice websites and online directories, can be used to identify the services offered. For example, does a particular practice offer extended hours or weekend appointments to improve accessibility? Do they have a dedicated asthma clinic or a specialized asthma program? Do they participate in any community outreach programs related to asthma education? These details contribute to the overall Asthma Score.

The infrastructure of the healthcare system in Nesquehoning also plays a role. The presence of a local hospital with an emergency room equipped to handle asthma exacerbations is a critical safety net. The availability of pharmacies with a wide range of asthma medications and devices is also essential. The ease of access to these resources contributes to the overall quality of care.

Furthermore, the socioeconomic factors of the population within the 18240 ZIP code should be considered. Poverty, lack of health insurance, and limited access to transportation can all negatively impact asthma management. Practices that are sensitive to these challenges and offer programs to assist patients with financial or logistical barriers would receive a higher score.

The Asthma Score, therefore, is not a single number, but a composite assessment. It reflects the availability of primary care, the quality of care provided, the integration of telemedicine and mental health resources, the access to specialists, and the sensitivity of practices to the needs of the community. A higher score indicates a more favorable environment for asthma management.

In conclusion, improving asthma care in Nesquehoning requires a collaborative effort. Healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies all have a role to play. By focusing on improving access to care, enhancing the quality of care, and addressing the social determinants of health, we can improve outcomes for asthma patients in the 18240 ZIP code.

For a visual representation of the healthcare landscape in Nesquehoning and surrounding areas, including physician locations, specialist availability, and demographic data, explore CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful tool for visualizing healthcare data and identifying areas for improvement.