18336, Matamoras, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18336, Matamoras, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.29 percent of the residents in 18336 has some form of health insurance. 42.36 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 76.95 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 18336 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 611 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18336. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 936 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 187 health care providers accessible to residents in 18336, Matamoras, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18336 and Primary Care Availability in Matamoras

Analyzing healthcare access and quality, particularly for conditions like asthma, requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on doctors within ZIP code 18336 (Matamoras, PA) and the broader primary care landscape in the area, with a specific emphasis on factors relevant to asthma management. We will examine physician-to-patient ratios, identify standout practices, assess telemedicine adoption, and evaluate the availability of mental health resources, all crucial elements in determining an "Asthma Score" for this region.

The foundation of a good Asthma Score lies in the availability of accessible and qualified primary care physicians (PCPs). In Matamoras, the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced access to preventative care, and potentially delayed asthma diagnoses or treatment adjustments. Publicly available data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health or the US Census Bureau, combined with physician directories and insurance provider networks, can help determine this ratio. A low physician-to-patient ratio negatively impacts the Asthma Score.

Beyond simple numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. We need to identify practices that demonstrate excellence in asthma management. This involves looking at factors such as: the presence of board-certified allergists or pulmonologists within the practice or readily accessible through referral networks; the use of standardized asthma action plans tailored to individual patients; the availability of on-site spirometry testing to assess lung function; and the provision of patient education on asthma triggers, medication usage, and inhaler techniques. Practices that actively participate in quality improvement initiatives, track asthma control rates, and demonstrate positive patient outcomes would significantly boost the Asthma Score. Examining patient reviews and testimonials, while subjective, can offer valuable insights into patient satisfaction and the perceived quality of care.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in managing chronic conditions like asthma, particularly in rural areas. The adoption of telemedicine by primary care practices in Matamoras is a crucial factor in the Asthma Score. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of peak flow readings, and medication refills through online portals demonstrate a commitment to patient convenience and proactive asthma management. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, and improve patient adherence to treatment plans. The availability of telehealth services, especially for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, positively influences the Asthma Score.

Asthma often co-exists with mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. These conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and negatively impact treatment adherence. Therefore, the availability of mental health resources is a critical component of a comprehensive Asthma Score. This involves assessing the availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and psychiatrists, within the primary care practices or through referral networks. Practices that integrate mental health screening into their routine care and offer access to counseling or psychiatric services demonstrate a commitment to holistic patient care. The presence of resources that address the psychological aspects of asthma contributes significantly to a higher Asthma Score.

Specific practices within 18336 warrant individual evaluation. Identifying practices that stand out in terms of their asthma management protocols, patient education efforts, and commitment to patient outcomes is crucial. This involves examining their websites, reviewing their patient satisfaction scores, and potentially conducting interviews with practice staff or patients (with appropriate ethical considerations). Practices that actively promote asthma awareness within the community, participate in asthma-related research, or partner with local pharmacies to provide medication education and support would receive a higher rating. The presence of dedicated asthma educators or respiratory therapists within a practice is a significant positive factor.

The overall Asthma Score for Matamoras will be a composite of these factors. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that is well-equipped to diagnose, treat, and manage asthma effectively. This includes a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of high-quality primary care practices with specialized asthma expertise, the adoption of telemedicine to improve access to care, and the availability of mental health resources to address the psychological aspects of the condition. Conversely, a low score suggests potential challenges in accessing and receiving optimal asthma care, potentially leading to poorer patient outcomes.

The evaluation of the primary care landscape in Matamoras requires ongoing monitoring. Healthcare systems and practices evolve over time, and changes in physician staffing, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources can significantly impact the Asthma Score. Regular updates and re-evaluations are essential to ensure that the score accurately reflects the current state of healthcare access and quality in the region.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Matamoras, including the distribution of physicians, the location of healthcare facilities, and the demographics of the population, consider exploring interactive mapping tools. CartoChrome maps provide a powerful platform for visualizing healthcare data, identifying areas with limited access to care, and making informed decisions about healthcare resource allocation.

**Ready to visualize the healthcare landscape of Matamoras and gain a deeper understanding of asthma care accessibility? Explore the power of CartoChrome maps today!**