18355, Scotrun, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18355, Scotrun, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.73 percent of the residents in 18355 has some form of health insurance. 53.61 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.12 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 18355 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 240 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18355. An estimate of 1 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 49 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,953 health care providers accessible to residents in 18355, Scotrun, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Scotrun, PA (ZIP Code 18355)

Analyzing the availability and quality of asthma care within Scotrun, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18355) necessitates a multifaceted approach. We must consider not only the number of physicians but also the accessibility of care, the adoption of modern technologies, and the integration of mental health support, all factors that contribute to an overall "Asthma Score" for this specific area. This analysis will focus on the primary care landscape, as it serves as the initial point of contact for many asthma patients.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical determinant of access. While precise figures fluctuate, the overall physician density in the Pocono region, including Scotrun, often presents a challenge. The ratio of primary care physicians (PCPs) to the population in 18355 likely reflects this trend. A lower ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, can translate to longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms. This scarcity also places a greater burden on each physician, potentially impacting the time they can dedicate to each patient, including those with chronic conditions like asthma.

The availability of specialists, specifically pulmonologists and allergists, is also crucial. Patients with moderate to severe asthma often require specialized care beyond the scope of a general PCP. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists within a reasonable driving distance are essential. If specialist access is limited, patients may face significant travel burdens to receive appropriate care, leading to increased healthcare costs and potentially worsening asthma control due to delayed specialist consultations.

Identifying standout practices within Scotrun and the surrounding areas is important. Some practices may excel in asthma management through evidence-based protocols, patient education programs, and proactive monitoring. These practices often demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and patient-centered care. They might employ certified asthma educators, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and utilize advanced diagnostic tools to assess lung function and trigger identification. These practices, when identified, should be highlighted as models for others to emulate.

Telemedicine adoption is a key factor in improving asthma care accessibility, especially in rural areas. Telemedicine offers the potential to bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and symptom monitoring. Practices that embrace telemedicine can provide more frequent and convenient access to care, potentially leading to improved asthma control and reduced hospitalizations. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters that transmit data to the physician, further enhances the effectiveness of telemedicine in asthma management.

The integration of mental health resources is often overlooked in asthma care, yet it is a critical component of holistic treatment. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Practices that recognize this and integrate mental health support into their asthma management programs demonstrate a commitment to patient well-being. This might involve offering on-site mental health counseling, collaborating with mental health professionals, or providing resources to address the psychological impact of asthma.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Scotrun, PA (18355) will be influenced by a combination of these factors. A high score would indicate a well-resourced environment with a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, easy access to specialists, a commitment to telemedicine, and the integration of mental health support. Conversely, a lower score would suggest challenges in accessing care, potentially leading to poorer asthma control and a lower quality of life for patients.

To gain a more comprehensive understanding of the asthma care landscape in Scotrun, further investigation is needed. This includes gathering data on physician availability, specialist access, telemedicine adoption rates, and the availability of mental health resources. Patient surveys and interviews could provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including wait times, satisfaction with care, and the perceived impact of asthma on their daily lives.

This analysis provides a starting point for assessing the quality of asthma care in Scotrun. The findings can be used to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for resources that support better asthma management. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents of Scotrun with asthma have access to high-quality, patient-centered care that enables them to live full and active lives.

To visualize the geographic distribution of healthcare resources and identify potential gaps in care, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. These maps can help you pinpoint the location of physicians, specialists, and other resources, providing a visual representation of the asthma care landscape in Scotrun and the surrounding areas.