18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.46 percent of the residents in 18255 has some form of health insurance. 40.48 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.16 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 18255 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 895 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18255. An estimate of 4 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 774 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,750 health care providers accessible to residents in 18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Weatherly, PA (ZIP Code 18255)

Analyzing the healthcare landscape within Weatherly, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18255) requires a multifaceted approach, particularly when considering the management of a chronic respiratory condition like asthma. This analysis will delve into the availability of primary care physicians, assess the physician-to-patient ratio, highlight any standout practices, examine the adoption of telemedicine, and explore the presence of mental health resources, all factors influencing an “Asthma Score” for the area.

The foundation of asthma management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. In Weatherly, the number of primary care physicians directly impacts the ability of patients to receive timely diagnoses, ongoing monitoring, and medication management. A low physician-to-patient ratio can indicate a potential strain on resources, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potentially impacting the quality of care. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility and potentially improved patient outcomes. Determining the exact physician-to-patient ratio in 18255 requires accessing publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) or the Pennsylvania Department of Health. This data, coupled with population estimates for the ZIP code, provides a crucial baseline for assessing primary care availability.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of care offered by individual practices is paramount. Identifying standout practices involves considering factors such as patient reviews, the presence of board-certified specialists (e.g., pulmonologists who specialize in lung diseases), and the adoption of evidence-based asthma management protocols. Practices that proactively engage patients in their care, offer educational resources, and provide individualized treatment plans are likely to achieve better outcomes. Researching local practices’ websites, reviewing online patient feedback platforms, and contacting practices directly can reveal valuable insights into their approach to asthma management.

Telemedicine has emerged as a significant tool for managing chronic conditions, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare can be limited. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Weatherly can significantly impact the Asthma Score. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring of lung function, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits and improving patient convenience. Practices that embrace telemedicine demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care and a willingness to leverage technology to enhance accessibility. Assessing telemedicine adoption requires researching practice websites, contacting practices to inquire about their telehealth offerings, and examining local healthcare directories.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health resources within Weatherly is therefore a crucial component of the Asthma Score. This includes the presence of therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists who can provide support and treatment for patients struggling with the psychological effects of asthma. Assessing mental health resource availability requires researching local mental health providers, examining community health directories, and exploring partnerships between primary care practices and mental health professionals. Integrated care models, where mental health services are offered within the primary care setting, can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients.

Further, the Asthma Score is influenced by the availability of specialized asthma education programs. These programs can empower patients with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their condition effectively. They often cover topics such as medication adherence, trigger identification, and action plan development. The presence of these programs, either within primary care practices or through community health organizations, contributes to a higher Asthma Score. Investigating the availability of asthma education programs involves contacting local healthcare providers and community organizations to inquire about their offerings.

The presence of emergency care facilities, like hospitals with 24/7 emergency rooms, is also a key factor. Asthma exacerbations can be life-threatening, and timely access to emergency care is essential. The proximity of a hospital or urgent care center equipped to handle asthma-related emergencies directly impacts the Asthma Score. Researching the location and capabilities of local emergency care facilities is crucial.

The overall environmental factors within Weatherly can also influence the Asthma Score. Air quality, exposure to allergens, and the prevalence of smoking in the community all contribute to asthma triggers. While these factors are not directly within the control of healthcare providers, awareness of these environmental influences is crucial for developing comprehensive asthma management plans. Accessing local air quality data and understanding community health initiatives related to smoking cessation are important components of a thorough analysis.

The evaluation of the Asthma Score in Weatherly must be an ongoing process. Healthcare landscapes are constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatment options, and healthcare providers emerging. Regularly updating the analysis, monitoring changes in physician-to-patient ratios, and assessing the adoption of telemedicine and mental health resources are essential to ensure that the Asthma Score remains accurate and relevant.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for Weatherly, PA (ZIP Code 18255) is a complex metric that reflects the interplay of various factors. It is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in healthcare availability, practice quality, and community resources. A comprehensive understanding of these factors is essential for both healthcare providers and patients in the area to ensure optimal asthma management.

To visualize and further analyze the healthcare landscape of Weatherly, Pennsylvania, and to identify trends and patterns related to asthma care, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, resource availability, and other relevant data, offering a powerful tool for understanding and improving asthma care in your community.