18335, Marshalls Creek, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18335, Marshalls Creek, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.18 percent of the residents in 18335 has some form of health insurance. 37.43 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 75.34 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 18335 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 342 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18335. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 249 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,700 health care providers accessible to residents in 18335, Marshalls Creek, Pennsylvania.

The analysis of asthma care accessibility and quality within ZIP code 18335, specifically focusing on Marshalls Creek, Pennsylvania, requires a multi-faceted approach. Evaluating the 'Asthma Score' for physicians in this area necessitates considering factors beyond simple physician counts. We must delve into physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of specialized asthma care, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, all within the context of primary care availability.

Physician-to-patient ratios serve as a fundamental indicator of access. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments and potentially reduced access to ongoing care. In Marshalls Creek, determining the precise ratio requires data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local healthcare providers. This data will reveal the number of primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists serving the population of 18335. An ideal scenario would showcase a robust PCP presence, ensuring readily available routine care, alongside a sufficient number of pulmonologists to manage complex asthma cases.

Beyond raw numbers, the presence of specialized asthma care is critical. Does the area boast physicians with specific expertise in asthma management? Are there pulmonologists or allergists actively practicing within the ZIP code? These specialists often possess advanced training and experience in diagnosing and treating asthma, offering a higher level of care for patients with complex or poorly controlled conditions. The presence of certified asthma educators, who can provide patient education on self-management techniques, is another positive indicator. These educators empower patients to take control of their condition, leading to improved outcomes and reduced reliance on emergency care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool in healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. The adoption of telemedicine by local practices is a crucial factor in the 'Asthma Score' analysis. Telemedicine allows for virtual consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring of lung function. This can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Practices that have embraced telemedicine, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring devices, will likely score higher in this evaluation.

The link between asthma and mental health is increasingly recognized. Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in asthma patients, and these conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact quality of life. Therefore, the integration of mental health resources within primary care practices is a significant factor. Practices that offer on-site mental health services, or have established referral pathways to mental health professionals, demonstrate a more holistic approach to patient care. These practices are better equipped to address the complex needs of asthma patients, leading to improved overall well-being.

Identifying standout practices requires a deeper dive into individual physician profiles and practice characteristics. Are there practices that consistently receive positive patient reviews, particularly regarding asthma management? Do these practices offer extended hours, weekend appointments, or same-day sick visits to accommodate patient needs? Do they actively participate in asthma research or quality improvement initiatives? Practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma care, as evidenced by patient satisfaction, innovative approaches, and a focus on continuous improvement, should be recognized.

Primary care availability in Marshalls Creek is paramount. The accessibility of PCPs forms the foundation of asthma care. Patients with asthma often require regular check-ups, medication refills, and referrals to specialists. A shortage of PCPs can create bottlenecks in the healthcare system, leading to delayed diagnoses, inadequate management, and increased hospitalizations. Evaluating the availability of PCPs involves assessing appointment wait times, the acceptance of new patients, and the overall capacity of the primary care system to meet the needs of the community.

The 'Asthma Score' analysis must also consider the presence of ancillary services that support asthma care. Are there pharmacies readily accessible within the ZIP code, offering a wide range of asthma medications and devices? Are there respiratory therapists available to provide education and support? The availability of these resources contributes to the overall quality and accessibility of asthma care.

Furthermore, the impact of socioeconomic factors cannot be ignored. The prevalence of asthma can vary across different demographic groups, and disparities in access to care may exist. The analysis should consider the socioeconomic profile of the population in 18335, including factors such as income, education, and insurance coverage. Addressing health disparities requires a multifaceted approach, including community outreach programs, culturally sensitive care, and efforts to improve access to affordable healthcare.

Analyzing the practices within 18335, it is essential to assess their use of electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs facilitate the seamless exchange of patient information between different healthcare providers, improving care coordination and reducing the risk of medical errors. Practices that utilize EHRs effectively, including features such as medication reconciliation and automated reminders for follow-up appointments, are likely to provide higher-quality asthma care.

Finally, the 'Asthma Score' should be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving landscape of healthcare. Regular updates are necessary to account for changes in physician availability, the adoption of new technologies, and the implementation of innovative care models. This ongoing evaluation ensures that the analysis remains relevant and useful in guiding patients and healthcare providers.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Marshalls Creek and to visualize the data discussed, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities offered by CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points, offering valuable insights into asthma care accessibility and quality in ZIP code 18335.