18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.67 percent of the residents in 18403 has some form of health insurance. 33.30 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 81.16 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 18403 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 1,505 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18403. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,060 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,995 health care providers accessible to residents in 18403, Archbald, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 18403 and Primary Care Availability in Archbald

This analysis delves into the landscape of asthma care within ZIP Code 18403, focusing on the availability and quality of primary care physicians (PCPs) and their capacity to manage asthma effectively. We will assess various factors, including physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources, to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment. The geographical focus is Archbald, Pennsylvania, a community within the 18403 ZIP code.

The foundation of effective asthma management rests on accessible and responsive primary care. Archbald, like many communities, faces challenges in this area. The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians for a given population, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced time per patient, and potentially, a decline in the quality of care. Data from local health departments and insurance providers would be essential to determine the exact physician-to-patient ratio within Archbald. Without precise figures, we can only infer based on national averages and anecdotal evidence. If Archbald experiences a higher-than-average ratio, it would negatively impact the Asthma Score.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of care is paramount. The identification of "standout practices" is crucial. These are practices that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in asthma management. This includes adherence to current asthma guidelines, utilization of evidence-based treatment protocols, and proactive patient education. Practices that employ certified asthma educators, offer comprehensive asthma action plans, and provide regular follow-up appointments would be highly regarded. Researching patient reviews, consulting with local advocacy groups, and examining practice accreditations would help identify these exemplary practices. The presence of such practices would significantly boost the Asthma Score.

Telemedicine adoption plays an increasingly important role in healthcare delivery, especially for chronic conditions like asthma. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, improve access to care, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of patients. Practices that offer virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient portals for communication and prescription refills would receive higher marks. The availability of telemedicine, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, is a significant positive factor for the Asthma Score.

Asthma is not merely a physical ailment; it frequently coexists with mental health challenges. Anxiety and depression are common in individuals with asthma, exacerbating symptoms and hindering treatment adherence. The integration of mental health resources into primary care is therefore crucial. Practices that offer on-site counseling services, have established referral pathways to mental health specialists, or actively screen patients for mental health issues would be considered more comprehensive. The presence of these resources, or a clear plan for addressing mental health concerns, would positively influence the Asthma Score.

Assessing the asthma score requires a holistic approach, considering all the factors discussed above. The final score, though not a precise numerical value without specific data, can be conceptualized as a relative ranking. A high score would indicate a community with readily accessible primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, standout practices committed to best practices in asthma management, widespread telemedicine adoption, and integrated mental health resources. A low score would suggest the opposite – limited access, potential gaps in care, and a lack of comprehensive support for asthma patients.

In the context of Archbald and ZIP Code 18403, the Asthma Score is likely to be influenced by the size of the community and the availability of healthcare resources in the broader region. Rural areas often face challenges in physician recruitment and retention, potentially impacting the physician-to-patient ratio. The adoption of telemedicine may vary depending on the technological infrastructure and the willingness of local practices to embrace new technologies. The integration of mental health services may also be limited by the availability of mental health professionals in the area.

To gain a more accurate assessment, further investigation is needed. This includes detailed data on physician-to-patient ratios, the practices' adherence to asthma guidelines, the availability of telemedicine services, and the integration of mental health resources. Local health departments, insurance providers, and patient advocacy groups are key sources of information. Patient surveys and focus groups could also provide valuable insights into the patient experience.

This analysis emphasizes the importance of a multi-faceted approach to asthma care. It's not enough to simply have physicians; they must be well-equipped, committed to best practices, and supported by a robust healthcare infrastructure. The integration of telemedicine and mental health resources is critical for providing comprehensive and patient-centered care. The Asthma Score serves as a framework for evaluating the quality of asthma care and identifying areas for improvement.

To visualize and analyze these factors geographically, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome's mapping capabilities can help visualize physician locations, patient demographics, and access to resources, providing a comprehensive overview of asthma care within ZIP Code 18403 and Archbald. This can lead to more informed decisions about resource allocation and healthcare planning.